[Solved] Newbie tackling localhost install: is FastCGI really essential?

I'm keen to try MODX so I'm installing Linux, Apache, MySQL and PHP on my PC. These are all new to me so progress is rather slow.

The MODX requirements lists FastCGI as one of the requirements. I've spent time with Google trying to understand the installation process, but without much success. With my very limited understanding, installing FastCGI is something I'd prefer to avoid for now.

I imagine FastCGI is essential on a production server, but is it really a requirement on a set-up like mine, which is just a learning tool? [ed. note: mmmason last edited this post 14 years, 4 months ago.]

No, it is not essential.

Welcome to MODX!

Instead of installing Apache, MySQL etc separately, you can use XAMPP http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html or WAMP http://www.wampserver.com/en/

Personally I use WAMP now. Its a bit easier than XAMPP for new comers.

Hope this helps

Thanks Susan and Zi.

XAMPP and WAMP look very interesting: I'm ashamed to say that I had no idea they existed. I'm going to have to try WAMP on my Windows machine...