Simplify PHP Development with Laragon

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Simplify PHP Development with Laragon

PHP Scripts

The Ultimate PHP Dev Tool for Windows

If you're developing PHP applications and looking for a lightning-fast, no-fuss local development environment, Laragon should be at the top of your list. Designed specifically for Windows, Laragon makes it incredibly easy to start working with PHP, Laravel, CodeIgniter, WordPress, and many other tools — all without complicated setup.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to install Laragon and create your first PHP project in just a few minutes.

What is Laragon?

Laragon is a portable, fast, and powerful local development environment for Windows. It’s lightweight, extremely fast to spin up, and includes everything you need to run PHP projects, such as:

Apache or Nginx
MySQL or MariaDB
PHP (multiple versions switchable)
Node.js, Composer, Git, etc.

Why Use Laragon?

One-click install: Easily install Laravel, WordPress, and others.
Blazing fast: Much faster than XAMPP or WAMP.
Portable: Can run from a USB stick.
Clean URLs: Built-in support for pretty URLs (e.g., myapp.test).
Auto Virtual Hosts: No need to mess with hosts or Apache config manually.

How to Install Laragon

Download Laragon:

Visit https://laragon.org/ and download the full version.
Choose the version that includes Apache, MySQL, and PHP.

Install Laragon:

Run the installer and choose a directory (e.g., C:\laragon\).
Launch Laragon and click "Start All."

Setting Up a PHP Project with Laragon

Step 1: Start Laragon

Click on “Start All” to start Apache and MySQL.

Step 2: Create a New PHP Project

Right-click the Laragon tray icon ? Quick app ? Choose “Blank” or “Laravel” if you want a Laravel app.

Laragon will auto-create the folder and configure the environment.

Step 3: Open Your Project Folder

Go to C:\laragon\www\yourprojectname.

Step 4: Create Your PHP Files

Add your index.php or other PHP files here.

Step 5: Access in Browser

Open your browser and type. Laragon automatically sets up this domain via its built-in DNSMasq system.

Using Composer in Laragon

Laragon comes with Composer pre-installed. Just open Laragon > Terminal, and type:

Switching PHP Versions

Download the PHP version zip file from https://windows.php.net/download/.
Extract it to C:\laragon\bin\php\php-x.x.x.
In Laragon: Menu > Tools > Change PHP version and select the new version.
Restart Laragon.

Managing Databases with Laragon

Laragon includes HeidiSQL or phpMyAdmin.
Use http://localhost/phpmyadmin or click Menu > Database > Adminer.
Create new databases for your apps easily.

Final Thoughts

Laragon is a game-changer for PHP developers on Windows. It’s fast, beginner-friendly, and highly customizable. Whether you're a beginner testing out simple PHP scripts or a pro working on complex Laravel applications, Laragon simplifies your local dev setup.

If you know any other great alternatives, feel free to share them in the comments to help others!

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This entry was posted by Sasi and tagged in Best Local Server for PHP Projects on Windows

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