How to Install PrestaShop on Localhost Using XAMPP

The open-source e-commerce solution PrestaShop allows users to generate online stores through its vast popularity. Small businesses benefit to install PrestaShop through XAMPP on a local server to evaluate store features and custom designs, and themes before their official site launch. The article presents a complete walkthrough of installing PrestaShop through XAMPP on a Windows computer, which includes total explanations for absolute beginners to follow without difficulties.

2. Prerequisites

You’ll need a Windows operating system (Windows 10 or later), at least 4GB of RAMan an internet connection to download necessary files, and administrative privileges on your computer and the latest stable release of PrestaShop. PrestaShop requires PHP 7.2 or above and a MySQL database.

3. Step 1: Install XAMPP

Download XAMPP from the official Apache Friends website (https://www.apachefriends.org/). Choose the version compatible with your PHP needs. After downloading, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions. It’s recommended to install XAMPP in the C:\xampp directory for easier access. Once installed, open the XAMPP Control Panel and start the Apache and MySQL modules. These will simulate a server environment locally, allowing you to run websites just like a real server.

• Download XAMPP: Visit the XAMPP official website and download the Windows version.
• Install XAMPP: It’s recommended to install XAMPP in the C:\xampp directory.
• Launch XAMPP Control Panel: After installation, open XAMPP and start the Apache and MySQL modules.​

4. Step 2: Download PrestaShop

Go to the official PrestaShop website (https://prestashop.com/prestashop-offers/classic/) and download the latest version of PrestaShop. It will be a ZIP file containing all the files required to install the application. Save it in a location where you can easily access it later, such as the Downloads folder.

• Visit PrestaShop’s Website: Go to the official PrestaShop download page.
  
• Download the Latest Version: Download to get the latest PrestaShop ZIP file.​

5. Step 3: Extract PrestaShop Files

Once you’ve downloaded the PrestaShop ZIP file, extract it using a tool like WinRAR or the default Windows extractor. Navigate to the C:\xampp\htdocs directory and create a new folder (e.g., “prestashop”). Move the extracted files into this folder. This folder acts like the root directory of your local website. By placing the PrestaShop files here, XAMPP can serve them when you access the URL through your browser.

• Navigate to XAMPP’s htdocs Directory: Open C:\xampp\htdocs.
• Create a New Folder: For example, PrestaShop.
• Extract Files: Unzip the downloaded PrestaShop ZIP file into the newly created folder.

6. Step 4: Create a MySQL Database

To manage the data for your store, you need a MySQL database. Open your browser and go to http://localhost/phpmyadmin. Click on the “Databases” tab, and in the “Create database” field, enter a name such as “prestashop_db” and click “Create.” This will generate an empty database that PrestaShop will use to store product information, user data, and settings.

Access phpMyAdmin: In your web browser and type http://localhost/phpmyadmin.

Create a New Database:

• Click on the Databases tab.
• Enter a name for your database (e.g., prestashop_db).
• Click Create.​

7. Step 5: Launch Installer To Install PrestaShop

After placing the files in the htdocs folder and creating your database, it’s time to launch the installer. Open your browser and go to http://localhost/prestashop (or whatever your folder name is). The PrestaShop installer interface will greet you. Select your preferred language, agree to the license terms, and proceed to the next step. The installer will then check for system compatibility, ensuring your local environment supports all required modules.

• Open the Installer: In your web browser, navigate to http://localhost/prestashop (replace prestashop with your folder name if different).
• Select Language: Choose your preferred language and click Next.
• License Agreement: Read and accept the terms, then click Next.
• System Compatibility: The installer will check your system’s compatibility. Resolve any issues if prompted.​

8. Step 6: Configure Store Information

The next screen will ask for basic store information. You’ll need to enter your store’s name, main activity (like fashion, electronics, etc.), country, and your personal admin information, including email and password. This information sets up the admin account and initial configuration of your store. Be sure to use a strong password and a valid email address, as you’ll use these to log into your PrestaShop admin dashboard later.

1. Shop Information:
   
   • Shop Name: Enter your store’s name.
     
   • Main Activity: Select the primary activity of your store.
     
   • Country: Choose your country.
     
2. Account Information:
   
   • First Name and Last Name: Enter your name.
     
   • Email Address: Provide a valid email.
     
   • Shop Password: Create a secure password.​
     

Click Next to proceed.

9. Step 7: Configure Database Connection

Now you’ll need to connect the installer to the database you created. Use “localhost” as the database server address, enter the database name (e.g., “prestashop_db”), use “root” as the username, and leave the password field blank (default for XAMPP). Click “Test your database connection now!” to ensure the connection is successful. If it passes, you can proceed. This step ensures PrestaShop can store and retrieve data properly.

1. Database Configuration:
   
   • Database Server Address: localhost
     
   • Database Name: Enter the name you created earlier (e.g., prestashop_db).
     
   • Database Login: root
     
   • Database Password: Leave blank (default for XAMPP).
     
   • Tables Prefix: ps_ (default)
     
2. Test Connection: Click on Test your database connection now! to ensure everything is set up correctly.​
   

Click Next to continue.

10. Step 8: Complete Installation

After configuring the database, PrestaShop will begin installing your store. This process may take several minutes. Once complete, you’ll see a success message. You’ll also be provided with URLs to access both the front office (customer view) and back office (admin panel) of your store.

11. Step 9: Post-Installation Steps

After installation, navigate to the PrestaShop folder in htdocs and delete the “install” folder for security reasons. Then, rename the admin folder to something unique (e.g., “admin123”) to protect your admin panel from unauthorized access. Use this renamed URL (e.g., http://localhost/prestashop/admin123) to log into your store’s backend and begin customizing.

Delete the Install Folder: For security reasons, navigate to C:\xampp\htdocs\prestashop and delete the install folder.

Access the Back Office: Go to http://localhost/prestashop/admin to log in to your store’s admin panel.

Access the Front Office: Visit http://localhost/prestashop to view your store as customers would see it.​

12. Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter issues like missing PHP extensions or errors during installation, they can usually be resolved by editing the php.ini file in the XAMPP installation directory. For example, if the “intl” extension is missing, open php.ini, search for “extension=intl“, and uncomment it by removing the semicolon. Restart Apache afterwards. For database issues, ensure MySQL is running and that the database name and credentials are entered correctly.

13. Conclusion

Installing PrestaShop on localhost using XAMPP provides a powerful sandbox environment for building and testing your online store. With this setup, you can experiment freely without impacting a live website. Oncyou’rere satisfied with your local store, you can migrate it to a live server. Always keep backups of your work, and explore the rich module and theme ecosystem PrestaShop has to offer to fully customize your eCommerce experience.

About the writer

Hassan Tahir wrote this article, drawing on his experience to clarify WordPress concepts and enhance developer understanding. Through his work, he aims to help both beginners and professionals refine their skills and tackle WordPress projects with greater confidence.