Moving a XAMPP Project to Another Computer
Moving a XAMPP project requires a verified backup of both the project files and its database.
Prepare the source computer
- Save all source files.
- Export the project database as SQL through phpMyAdmin.
- Copy the complete project folder from
htdocs. - Include the SQL export and a short setup note.
- Stop MySQL and Apache cleanly.
The setup note should record the project folder, local URL, database name and any approved port changes. Do not record real passwords.
Transfer safely
Use an approved storage location. Keep a separate source backup until the destination has been tested. Do not email sensitive archives or use real personal data.
Restore on the destination
- Install and test XAMPP.
- Copy the project folder into the destination
htdocs. - Create or select the expected database.
- Import the SQL file.
- check the PDO connection settings.
- Start Apache and MySQL.
- open the project through localhost.
Test the complete journey
Use fictional accounts and data to test registration, login, roles, protected pages, CSV import, database storage and meaningful outputs.
Common problems
| Problem | Check |
|---|---|
| Page not found | Folder name and localhost URL |
| Database connection fails | Database name and PDO settings |
| Tables missing | Correct SQL file and selected database |
| Styles or images missing | Relative paths and filename case |
| Login fails | User table, complete hashes and session setup |
| Import fails | Role, form encoding, file limits and headers |
Check
- Files and SQL were transferred.
- Source backup remains recoverable.
- Destination passes the full user journey.
- No real credentials or personal data are included.
- Configuration differences are recorded.