Packaging a PHP-MySQL app to allow easy install [closed]

Question

I've developed an open source application in php and mysql. I'd like to give it to the end user to install on their computer and use from their browser without me having to host it for them. But the end users are non-developers so they're unlikely to have what it takes to run the application (php-apache local environment like a developer would) and I don't have the time right now to invest in learning the Windows or Mac SDKs to make a real windows or Mac application. Also most of those interested in it are friends or their friends.

The solution I'm considering is to package apache/mysql/php with the php app itself, and have the installer install them so the app could run from inside the www/htdocs folder. It's like an app that comes with its own server to run it.

• Has anyone done this sort of thing before?
• Do I need to build apache/php/mysql from source on windows to do this, or can I somehow use existing windows binaries and have my installer just install them and position my app in the right location?
• I'm guessing that launching or closing the application could be done through starting/stopping apache, so how would I implement a start/stop to tie into the apache start/stop.
• Any help or ideas on this would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Have a look at BitNami Stacks, should definately have want you need in terms of a WAMP setup