What this procedure is
How to install PrestaShop on your computer (localhost) using XAMPP. This is ideal for testing, development, or training without touching production.
Applies to: PrestaShop 8.x.
Why you would do this
- Test modules or themes safely.
- Use a staging environment before updates.
- Learn the Back Office without risk.
Prerequisites
- XAMPP installed (Apache + MySQL/MariaDB + PHP).
- PrestaShop downloaded (ZIP).
- Enough disk space.
Quick diagnosis (before you change anything)
1) Choose a project folder
Expected result: you know whether you will install in htdocs/store or similar.
2) Decide a database name
Expected result: you will use a simple name (e.g. prestashop_local).
Localhost installation (XAMPP)
Step 1) Start Apache and MySQL
In the XAMPP Control Panel, start Apache and MySQL.
Expected result: both show as “Running”.
Step 2) Create the database
Open phpMyAdmin (from XAMPP) and create an empty database.
Expected result: the database appears in the list.
Step 3) Copy PrestaShop into htdocs
Extract PrestaShop into xampp/htdocs/your-folder.
Expected result: you can open http://localhost/your-folder/.
Step 4) Run the installer
Follow the wizard and enter the local database credentials.
Expected result: installation completes successfully.
Step 5) Remove /install and log in to /admin
Delete the /install folder (required) and log into the Back Office using the account you created.
Expected result: admin access works.
Final verification
- Store opens on localhost.
- Back Office opens.
- You can create a test product.
If something doesn’t work (common issues)
Installer shows requirement errors
- Try another PHP version if your XAMPP stack is too old/new.
- Check required PHP extensions (gd, intl, zip).
URL does not open
- Confirm Apache is running.
- Make sure the folder is inside
htdocs.
Best practices
- Use this environment to test updates before production.
- Avoid using real customer/order data unless necessary.
- If you share the project, document PrestaShop and PHP versions.