Preparing the server

Elgg is a server application, so you need a server to run it. Your server options fall into three categories:

• Local server: If you are at school or the office, there may be a server already configured with a web server that you can use for Elgg.

• Web hosting provider: A popular option is renting space on a server. The hosting company handles the maintenance of the server, provides technical support, and may even provide a one-click installer for Elgg. Chapter 10, Moving to Production includes a section on selecting a web hosting package when preparing to launch a live website.

• Home computer: You can use your desktop or laptop computer, whether it runs Windows, Mac, or Linux. There are packages available for download, like XAMPP, that include everything you need for running Elgg. This is a great way to test out Elgg before you select a server for your site.

Tip

Platform specific instructions

There are detailed, step-by-step installation instructions specific to your operating...