How to Install PHP on Windows, Mac, and Linux

Installing PHP is the first step to building dynamic web applications. Whether you're using Windows, macOS, or Linux, PHP can be set up quickly with the right tools.

This guide covers traditional installation methods and a modern approach using Docker.

What You Need Before Installing PHP

• A computer running Windows, macOS, or Linux
• Administrator (or sudo) access
• Basic command-line knowledge

Install PHP on Windows

Option 1: Using XAMPP (Recommended for beginners)

1. Download XAMPP
2. Run the installer
3. Start Apache

Option 2: Manual Installation

1. Download PHP
2. Extract to C:\php
3. Add to PATH

php -v

Install PHP on macOS

Using Homebrew

brew update
brew install php

Install PHP on Linux

Ubuntu / Debian

sudo apt update
sudo apt install php

Install PHP with Docker (Recommended for modern development)

Docker allows you to run PHP without installing it directly on your system. This is ideal for consistent environments and team projects.

1. Install Docker

Download and install Docker Desktop or Docker Engine.

2. Run PHP container

docker run --rm php:8.3-cli php -v

This runs PHP instantly without installation.

3. Run PHP script

docker run --rm -v $(pwd):/app -w /app php:8.3-cli php index.php

4. Run PHP with built-in server

docker run -p 8000:8000 -v $(pwd):/app -w /app php:8.3-cli php -S 0.0.0.0:8000

Open in browser:

http://localhost:8000

5. Using Docker Compose (recommended)

services:
  php:
    image: php:8.3-cli
    volumes:
      - .:/app
    working_dir: /app
    command: php -S 0.0.0.0:8000

Run:

docker compose up

Install PHP with Web Server

Apache

sudo apt install apache2 php libapache2-mod-php

Nginx + PHP-FPM

sudo apt install nginx php-fpm

Test PHP Installation

<?php
phpinfo();

Open:

http://localhost

Common Issues

PHP not found

Add PHP to PATH.

Port conflict

Use another port like 8080.

Docker permission issues

Run Docker with proper permissions or sudo.

Best Practices

• Use latest PHP version
• Prefer Docker for consistency
• Use Composer for dependencies

FAQ

Is Docker better than local installation?

For most modern workflows, yes. It ensures consistency and avoids system conflicts.

Do I need PHP installed if I use Docker?

No. Docker runs PHP inside containers.

Which method should I choose?

Beginners → XAMPP. Developers → Docker.

Conclusion

You can install PHP locally or use Docker for a cleaner and more flexible setup. Both approaches work — choose based on your workflow.