Developing Locally (WP Local)

This means installing WordPress on your own computer (Mac,

Windows, Linux) using tools like LocalWP, MAMP, XAMPP, Docker, and working offline.

 How It Works

• Install a local server stack (PHP, MySQL, Apache/Nginx).

• Run WordPress on http://localhost/your-site.

• Build themes, plugins, or full websites offline.

• When ready, migrate the site to your hosting provider.

 Advantages

1. Safe sandbox → Mistakes don’t affect real visitors.

2. Faster development → No internet upload delays.

3. Works offline → Develop anywhere without Wi-Fi.

4. Perfect for testing → Try new themes/plugins risk-free.

5. Version control friendly → Easy to combine with Git.

 Disadvantages

1. Migration required → You must move site to live hosting later.

2. Different environments → Local PHP/MySQL may not match server.

3. Limited real testing → Emails, payments, and webhooks don’t work by default.

4. Collaboration harder → Others can’t see your local site unless you share via tools like Ngrok or LocalWP link.

 Best Practice

• Use LocalWP (easiest) for quick setup.

• Match local PHP/MySQL versions with your host.

• Test your site thoroughly again after migration.

• Keep backups before moving.