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A Step-by-Step Guide to Hosting a Linux-Powered Local Development Site on Windows 

July 27, 2025
Linux
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If you’re looking to develop a website intended for a Linux server while working on a Windows machine, using the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) can provide a seamless development experience. Here’s how you can set up a local development environment to host a Linux-powered site within Windows.

Setting Up Your Development Environment

Step 1: Install WSL 2

Begin by launching PowerShell and installing WSL 2. Use the following command:

wsl --install --no-distribution

This command installs the subsystem without a default Linux distribution.

Step 2: Install AlmaLinux 9

Next, for your Linux distribution, install AlmaLinux 9 from the Microsoft Store. This choice is beneficial as it mirrors the environment most web hosts use.

Step 3: Configure AlmaLinux

Find the AlmaLinux shortcut in Windows Search and launch it. The first time you open it, you’ll be prompted to set a username and password. Following that, update your system with:

sudo dnf update

Then set the root user password:

sudo passwd root

Step 4: Install Web Control Panel

Instead of using the paid cPanel, install Virtualmin and Webmin as a free alternative with the following command:

sudo sh -c "$(curl -fsSL https://software.virtualmin.com/gpl/scripts/virtualmin-install.sh)" -- --bundle LAMP

During installation, you might be prompted for a fully-qualified domain name; you can use a placeholder like host.example.com.

Step 5: Access Your Control Panel

After installation, copy the IP address followed by :10000, and paste it into your browser. You’ll likely encounter a “Your connection is not private” error; proceed past this alert.

Log in using root as the username and the password you assigned earlier. Follow the Post-Installation Wizard, making sure to choose or set a memorable password for MariaDB when prompted.

Step 6: Configure Virtual Server

In Webmin, select “Add new virtual server” and create a server with a domain name (like mysite) without top-level domains. This sets up your local file structure.

Step 7: Install Essential Applications

Using Virtualmin, navigate to “Manage Web Apps” and install any necessary applications, such as phpMyAdmin or WordPress if applicable.

Final Steps

Now, you can access your site via the format http://YOUR_IP_ADDRESS and manage your databases through http://YOUR_IP_ADDRESS/phpmyadmin. To simplify access, add an entry to your C:WindowsSystem32driversetchosts file linking your chosen site name to your local IP.

Lastly, grant permission to the public_html directory, where your website’s root files will reside:

sudo chmod -R 777 /home/mysite

You can now add files to your website using File Explorer and view changes live in your browser. Just remember to keep an AlmaLinux WSL terminal open to maintain the webserver’s operation.

This approach allows for an efficient development process, simulating your production environment directly on your Windows machine, ensuring compatibility and ease of access throughout your development stages.


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Samantha Rattner

Samantha Rattner is the Marketing Specialist at ColoCrossing with a keen understanding of the hosting industry. Samantha brings valuable insights to help businesses optimize their hosting infrastructure. Through her articles and expert advice, Samantha guides readers in navigating the complexities of hosting solutions and staying ahead in the dynamic world of infrastructure hosting.