Apache Friends Support Forum

Okay, I've done some searching in this forum and the FAQ's, but haven't found my answer. Can someone please explain to me what it means to run Xampp, Apache, PHP, MySql, etc. as a service? It was to my understanding that doing the above results in everything automatically starting up when Windows starts. But recently, a friend told me that this type of configuration opens up my server to potential danger from outsiders. All I want to do is properly configure all of the above in order to test my PHP docs.

Any answers? If I missed any FAQ's or primers, please point me in the right direction. Thanks for your help.

It is always dangerous to run server programs, as the can be targets of attacks.

Do you have an Router? Then don't care, all OK. If not, activate your Windows Firewall and disable all exceptions.

Services are started when you start your computer BEFORE you log in.

glitzi