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What Is Localhost and How Is It Accessed?

Localhost is a server environment running directly on your computer, enabling you to perform processes such as web development, software testing, and database management securely and efficiently. You can test your projects without requiring an internet connection, quickly detect errors, and conduct performance checks. In business workflows, localhost shortens development time, ensures testing is done in a secure environment, and reduces costs. This allows organizations to execute their digital projects more efficiently and with greater control. Continue reading for more details!

Infrastructure and Hosting Publication Date 20 November 2025 - Update Date 26 November 2025
1.

What Is Localhost and What Is It Used For?

When you want to test a website or application you have developed on your computer before moving it to the internet, localhost comes into play. Localhost can be defined as a special address through which your computer serves itself, allowing you to manage testing and development processes securely and efficiently. Localhost is an essential concept especially for software developers and tech enthusiasts, as it enables the computer to be used like a server. We have answered the most common questions such as what is localhost, what it is used for, and how it is accessed!

Localhost is a special hostname assigned by the operating system to the loopback interface and, by default, represents the IP address 127.0.0.1. In the simplest terms, localhost can be described as “a server used by your own computer” and is commonly used for testing. Additional points can be made for the questions what is localhost and what is it used for:

  • Localhost is a special hostname that allows developers to test applications in a local environment and detect errors, and by default represents the IP address 127.0.0.1. Now you know the answer to the question what does localhost mean!
  • With localhost, you can run your applications in an isolated development environment without needing an internet connection and quickly identify errors.
  • Localhost provides a secure and fast environment, particularly for programmers and developers.
  • Test data is processed only on the local machine, allowing it to be stored securely without exposure to external networks.
  • Localhost offers the opportunity to test new software and code before going live, providing both time and cost savings.
What Is Localhost and What Is It Used For?
2.

What Is Localhost Used For?

Localhost is used for various purposes such as development, debugging, performance validation, and configuration testing. Since there is no access over the internet, pages and applications load much faster compared to real servers. This enables developers to optimize their code while conducting performance tests securely and efficiently. For example, when developing a new website or application, localhost can be used to test the project before deploying it online. This makes it easier to detect issues and missing elements in a secure environment. Since localhost provides an isolated environment on your computer, your data also remains protected. Additionally, localhost can be used for access blocking by redirecting certain domain names to 127.0.0.1 via hosts file configuration. By routing through the loopback address, you can prevent your computer from accessing specific websites.

3.

How to Access Localhost?

  • We can almost hear you asking, how to install localhost. To use localhost, you first need to install a web server software on your computer. The most popular options include XAMPP, WampServer, and MAMP.
  • After installation, start the necessary services such as the web server, database server, and PHP/application runtime modules (e.g., Apache/Nginx, MySQL/MariaDB).
  • Once these services are running, your computer is ready to function as a localhost server.
  • Open http://localhost in your browser to view the default welcome page of the web server you are using (Apache, Nginx, or IIS).

You may also be interested in our DNS configuration guide. Additionally, by exploring GlassHouse hardware and software solutions, you can accelerate and optimize your digital transformation processes.

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