====== Ampache on Windows ======

These instructions pertain to Windows XP and Apache Web Server installed with [[http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-windows.html|Xampp]] however it should work with other versions of windows as well. Some minor differences relating to Windows 2000 are highlighted, but not guaranteed to be complete.  Windows Vista has additional security requirements that will be mentioned during installation.

===== Packages Needed =====

The [[http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-windows.html|XAMPP]] download contains all the programs and packages that are required by Ampache.

===== Installing XAMPP =====
Install Xampp and and install as services when asked to, this ensures that the the servers are started automatically when the system starts.
<WRAP center 50em round important>**Windows Vista Users** - Do not allow XAMPP to install into your C:\Program Files directory.  Windows Vista locks down permissions on the 'Program Files' folder and will not allow easy modification of any files in it.  It's recommended to install to C:\xampp or C:\xampplite regardless of which Windows version you are using.</WRAP>

<wrap round warning>Pay attention to the security problems. Follow the xampp instructions on how to lock down the packages.</wrap>

Test your installation by visiting [[http://localhost/]]

If you get a DNS error or any other error after visiting that link, there are issues that need to be resolved before you can continue.

===== Giving MySql root login a password =====
MySQL by default has a blank root password.  This needs to be changed for 2 reasons.  First, it's a security vulnerability.  Second, Ampache will not allow you to use it when creating your Ampache database.  This is easily achieved, fortunately.
  * In the XAMPP control panel, click the 'Shell' button.  The black window displayed below will show up.  Type the following command to assign a password to your root login:
<code>mysqladmin.exe -u root password enter_your_new_password_here</code>

{{xampp_mysql_q.png?300}}

===== Install Ampache! =====
Continue on to the Ampache installation:  [[http://ampache.org/wiki/install]]