XAMPP

Installing an Apache web server can present many challenges, especially if you intend to integrate MySQL, PHP or Perl elements. XAMPP provides an excellent local development environment, in which you can easily built your Apache server, complete with MySQL, PHP and Perl. What's more, the software comes with a few extensions, which add support for Drupal, Joomla!, WordPress and other apps.

XAMPP provides a tabbed configurations panel, on which you can start and stop an Apache web server, a MySQL database and a ProFTPD server. You can also make a few simple tweaks and view an events log. Once the Apache server is running, you can access the application's core functions on a web-based user interface.

The web interface is composed of multiple sections, in which you can view the status of all components, view the current security status and more. If you encounter difficulties, you have access to a rich documentation section. In addition, XAMPP provides a series of demo projects, like a CD collection, guest book and others, to help you get started.

Drupal, Joomla! or WordPress apps can be installed through Bitnami, which is included in XAMPP's installation package. Once installed, you can find them on the same web interface, in the Applications section. XAMPP comes with a few preinstalled tools as well, like phpMyAdmin and Webalizer.