Windows: XAMPP vs WampServer vs EasyPHP vs alternative
There was a similar question asked here three years ago, but I want to open it up further to include all possible Windows/Apache/MySQL/PHP stacks.
Which to do you think is best?
XAMPP seems to be the most popular, but I've read several bad things about it that make me wonder if it's as good as its popularity suggests. For example, I've heard that their default PHP configuration is very insecure (and apparently their admin app can't function without these holes being left open). This isn't terrible for a development situation, obviously, but you may end up relying on something like register_globals.
I also spotted something else which makes me concerned: The developers recommend that Vista users disable UAC in order to use their software!
For me that's a big red flag. Yes, there are problems with getting something like this running on Vista with UAC enabled, but disabling UAC should never be offered as a solution, especially for newbs (who need UAC more than anyone). It makes me very concerned.
WampServer apparently is easier to switch versions of PHP or Apache, if you need to. But it comes with less features than XAMPP (no FTP server, for example).
EasyPHP is one that I have no experience of, so I can't say, but it's apparently pretty popular, too.
Alternatives? There a ton of other stacks listed on Wikipedia. Do any of these come recommended?
So which do you use, and why do you consider it the best? Did you just stick with the first one you tried?
I imagine most of us just want something quick, light, and up-to-date.
Answer
I generally install Apache + PHP + MySQL by-hand, not using any package like those you're talking about.
It's a bit more work, yes; but knowing how to install and configure your environment is great -- and useful.
The first time, you'll need maybe half a day or a day to configure those. But, at least, you'll know how to do so.
And the next times, things will be far more easy, and you'll need less time.
Else, you might want to take a look at Zend Server -- which is another package that bundles Apache + PHP + MySQL.
Or, as an alternative, don't use Windows.
If your production servers are running Linux, why not run Linux on your development machine?
And if you don't want to (or cannot) install Linux on your computer, use a Virtual Machine.