How to Install PHP: A Beginner-Friendly Guide for Local and Web Server Setups

If you’re ready to start developing with PHP, the first step is setting up your environment. Whether you’re working locally or deploying on a live server, this guide will help you understand your options for installing PHP and getting your project up and running.

🔧 What Do You Need to Run PHP?

Before writing your first PHP script, you need an environment where PHP code can be interpreted and executed. You have two main choices:

1. Use a Web Hosting Provider That Supports PHP and MySQL
2. Install PHP Locally on Your Personal Computer

Let’s explore both options.

🌐 Option 1: Use a Web Host with PHP & MySQL Support

Most shared hosting providers already include PHP and MySQL support by default. This is often the fastest way to get started.

• Simply upload your .php files to your public web directory.
• The server will automatically parse and execute PHP code.
• No manual installation or configuration is needed.

Because PHP is an open-source and widely supported language, nearly all major hosting services—like Bluehost, SiteGround, and HostGator—offer built-in PHP environments.

✅ Ideal for beginners or developers deploying to production quickly.

💻 Option 2: Set Up PHP Locally on Your Computer

If you’re building locally or want more control, you can install PHP manually on your PC. To create a working PHP development environment, you’ll need:

• A Web Server (e.g., Apache or Nginx)
• PHP Interpreter
• A Database (commonly MySQL or MariaDB)

This setup is commonly referred to as a LAMP stack (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP) or WAMP/XAMPP for Windows users.

👉 For official installation documentation, refer to: PHP Manual – Installation Guide

🧪 Test PHP Code Online (No Setup Needed)

Want to try out PHP without installing anything? Use an online PHP compiler like the one at W3Schools. It lets you write and run PHP scripts directly in your browser.

Example:

<?php
$txt = "PHP";
echo "I love $txt!";
?>

Output:

cssKopyalaDüzenleI love PHP!

✅ Click the “Try it Yourself” button on W3Schools to interactively test and learn.

🔍 How to Check Your PHP Version

After installation, you might want to verify which PHP version is running on your system. You can do this using the built-in phpversion() function:

<?php
echo phpversion();
?>

This command will display the currently active PHP version on your server or local setup.

🧩 Summary: Getting Started with PHP Installation

No matter which method you choose, setting up PHP opens the door to developing dynamic, server-side web applications. Whether you’re running code on a hosting provider or testing locally, PHP provides the flexibility and power to build anything from simple forms to full-scale CMS platforms.