Can someone help me set up PHP locally?

I want to make my computer PHP compliant so I can learn to script.

How do I install Apache?

and I need continued instructions...

I want it running on my computer only. I don't need it to serve the public.

 

Operating Sytem ?

 

If its Windows XP Pro its probably easier to use IIS for those purposes.

I'm doing a guide on how to make a home sever, one section of it will be how to install PHP and MySQL and run it using IIS. These instructions will apply to a testing setup as well.

 

skip MySQL and go with a more robust DB .. Postgres

 

Why do you say Postgres is more robust (for web purposes, of course) than MySQL?

 

Im running XP Pro...

I have MS-IIS installed, I have never used it though.

Either Apache or MS-IIS...Whatever anyone can help me with...

And also, for the sake of knowning (if we decide to go with MS-IIS)...How do I set up Apache?

 

If you are learning PHP your going to have to learn my-sql sometime in your life. Believe me on this one... im learning asp right now and i can already tell that i will NEED to know how to make databases.

 

I know. I am following the guide from W3 Schools. I just need help setting it all up so that I can learn it!

 

Do not use Apache 2.0.x and PHP in a production environment neither on Unix nor on Windows. For information on why, read the following FAQ entry


Thats what it says for Apache... So I guess I'd have to use MS-IIS for it right?

If so, does XP Pro Service Pack 2 come with MS-IIS v6 or no?

And if it does why do I keep getting an error message about some missing files?