Installation on Windows Server 2003 with Apache

Please note that security of the installation should be considered before you complete any install. The individual products have great documentation, make sure you check it out.

Assumptions

I'm going to assume if you are tackling a Windows Server install you have a decent knowledge of the operating system. Some experience in configuring Apache, PHP and MySql would be beneficial but not mandatory. A lot of great tutorials exist on the web for installing these products. If you get stuck, check out Google.

Steps

1. Install Apache - Make sure to consult the documentation for info on security and performance. I changed root for easier access, but not a critical step. Ensure IIS is not running, otherwise install will fail.

1a. Confirm that in httpd.conf all your server specific information, document locations etc are correct.

1b. Make sure mod_rewrite is enabled in you httpd.conf

*Note: As there are a wide range of options available in Apache conf file, you will need to confirm these for your individual situation. i.e if you will be using Virtual Hosts, you will need to setup the vhosts file and make sure permissions are correct.

The Apache documentation has great information on all the options available to you.

2. Install PHP - there are some great tutorials around the web for getting PHP working under windows. If in doubt consult the excellent documentation at php.net

2a. As a minimum you need to enable the following extensions in php.ini:
- php_gd2.dll,
- php_mbstring.dll
- php_mysql.dll

Again, you may need to enable more depending on your situation. This are just what I found to be minimal requirements.

2b. In php.ini, enter your email details under the [mail function] section. This will depend on your host.

2c. At this point you will need to make sure Apache can access your PHP installation and all modules and extensions are loaded. By using a phpinfo file you can confirm this.

3. Install MySQL - setup depending on your situation. Again too much detail for here, consult the documentation at mysql.org for more information.

3a. I ended up turning off 'Strict Mode' to allow the indexing job to complete. This can be done at the install or after.

3b. You can choose to donwload/install the MySQL gui tools for administering your database. This can be done from the command line if you wish.

4. At this point reboot to make sure all services are functioning. Check for any errors.

4. Download and Unzip Concrete5 install to your htdocs directory.

5. You will need to create a database, a user and make sure to note down the password. You will need to give the user the following rights to the database: INSERT, SELECT, UPDATE, INDEX, DELETE, CREATE, DROP, ALTER

6. Open a web browser and enter the address of your installation. You should see a screen asking for your new web site details. Make sure to check all requirements have been fulfilled.

7. Once installation is complete you are ready to start building!

*Note: Depending on your environment, you may experience some errors. If you do make sure to note it and check the forums as there is a wealth of information there.

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