Chapter 2: 
Installing Vanilla on your localhost

In this chapter, you will learn how to install Vanilla on a local computer. By doing so, it will save you time from updating and previewing files (so, you don’t have to frequently upload files to a web server every time you make a change). You can also use the local version to test new plugins, themes, and upgrades. This chapter is intended for beginners who want to learn how to run Vanilla locally.

Quick Summary

If you have some technical background, you can skip the detailed steps in this chapter. Here are the simplified steps on how to install Vanilla on a local computer:

1. Install a local server (Mac: MAMP, PC: XAMPP or WAMP).
2. Create a new database.
3. Download Vanilla from vanillaforums.org and extract the files to a new folder under the htdocs folder depending how you have setup you localhost.
4. In your browser got to http://localhost/vanilla/ (or whatever you named your Vanilla folder) and follow the on screen instructions to install Vanilla.
5. Done!

Let’s Begin ...

1. Install a Local Server

In order to run any PHP/database application on a local computer, you need a local host (ie. Apache + MySQL). For Mac, use MAMP. For PC, use XAMPP or WAMP.

2. Create a New Database

After you’ve installed MAMP, run it and it should take you to the start page. Now click on phpMyAdmin. In the phpMyAdmin page, create a new database (eg. vanilla).

3. Download Vanilla

Go to vanillaforums.org and download the latest release of Vanilla. Go to the htdocs folder (where you installed the MAMP), extract the vanilla.zip to a new folder (eg. vanilla).

4. Run the Vanilla Installer

With your browser, go to http://localhost/vanilla/ and follow the instructions to install Vanilla.

Now you have a brand new install of Vanilla on your localhost.

Further Reading

Installation Documentation
How to install Vanilla on a localhost video

The Ultimate Theme Guide for Designers

Table of Contents
Chapter 1 - Your Arsenal
Chapter 2 - Installing Vanilla on localhost
Chapter 3 - How Vanilla Themes Function
Chapter 4 - Enough Technical Stuff - It's Design Time!