Likely easy question about initial set up

[jasper391]

Googling has done nothing for me on this issue. I'm not sure if it's just me, or I'm missing something really obvious.

Ok so the root web directory is xampp\htdocs. Is this where I'm supposed to edit all my files? I am confused because if I edit any of the index files in that directory, it breaks the admin buttons on the control panel! That seems very wrong! However, where else am I supposed to edit files? What does everyone else do? Is my admin button just wonky? Please help. I feel like this one of those obvious is someone just told me moments :/

[Altrea]

Hi jasper391,

Please start new threads with the words "Hi" or "Hello". A short salutation is an act of politeness. Even if the internet is an virtual area, there is always a human being behind the screen. A polite beginning is the first positive impression you can leave here and helps to get polite answers too. Please keep that in mind if you start a new thread in any community board. Thank you.

Ok so the root web directory is xampp\htdocs. Is this where I'm supposed to edit all my files? I am confused because if I edit any of the index files in that directory, it breaks the admin buttons on the control panel! That seems very wrong!

Yes, you can edit, you can add or delete files there (depending if you need them or not).
If you are a beginner, i would not touch the \xampp\htdocs\index.php file because that is the file which contains a redirect to \xampp\htdocs\xampp\ the orange XAMPP Administration page (so don't touch this folder too).

The best practice would be to create a new folder inside \xampp\htdocs\ for each of your projects and request this folder by http://localhost/foldername/

btw: even if the Admin button is broken, if the \xampp\htdocs\xampp\ folder and its contents is still there, you can request the orange XAMPP Administration Page by url http://localhost/xampp/

best wishes,
Altrea