How to install a test/dummy shop on same Domain as a live store.

[bergssprangare]

I want to test & learn about different settings and options in my store..Obvously I don't want to lab on my live store..Can I install a test shop on the same domain , no need of database, just functionality lab..

 

Appreciate any help

 

Thanks

 

VW

 

 

[♥raiwa]

Hello Val,

 

Yes, you can just install the test shop in a subdirectory like "www.mystore.com/teststore/. Make sure to run the complete install procedure in the subdirectory from scratch ( Do not just copy your store like installed in the main directory). Then you can replace with modified files from your real store, except includes/configure.php and admin/includes/configure.php where all the configuration is stored.

And you NEED a second database, configuration settings and other information is stored in the database and if you play with modules it would be reflected in your real store.

 

If you have the possibility to create subdomains, you can do it in a subdomain too.

[burt]

Best is that you run a shop offline, so it is 100% totally separate from your live shop.

This way you can make many mistakes without the fear of damaging  your live shop

 

Look into Xampp, wamp, uniform server (my favourite) or many other such offline solutions.

[♥raiwa]

Optimum would be both, local test installation and server test installation.

If you run a local teststore under windows there may be some differences, exact php version, settings, extensions and configuration may vary slightly from the servers. So 100% testing for develop before using it on the live store is better on the server.

Just playing and first try is better on a local test installation.

[Hotclutch]

If you are only allowed to create one database on your hosting package, then no, don't think it will be possible, unless you want to risk ruining your live database. You need a database to connect to even for a test shop.