Hey everyone! I'm about to reinstall Windows and want to completely redo my programming setup. In the past, I've been a bit haphazard with installations, so this time I'm aiming for a more streamlined approach. I'm not really interested in using WSL since I'm comfortable with Windows. I've heard about managers like Winget and Chocolatey, but I haven't used them before. What's the best way to set up a web development environment these days, particularly for languages like PHP and JavaScript? Thanks in advance!
5 Answers
If WSL isn’t for you, then I’d suggest using Docker for your development environment. Setting it up can offer a lot of flexibility, especially if you're managing multiple projects. You can create containers with all your dependencies, so every setup feels fresh and uncluttered.
On my new Windows 11 laptop, I set up a dual boot with Ubuntu, which I found to be a great way to tackle web development. However, if you prefer sticking to Windows, another solid option is using Docker. This way, you can easily switch between environments for different projects.
It really depends on what languages you plan to work with. If you’re focusing mostly on frontend work and frameworks like Laravel, it might be worthwhile to consider different options. Just keep in mind that the setup can vary based on your specific needs.
Honestly, I would recommend trying WSL. A lot of developers find that Linux and macOS environments are better supported in the web development community. You might surprise yourself and get used to the Linux terminal pretty quickly!
I totally get where you’re coming from. I have a Mac for work and love that setup. When it comes to my Windows environment at home, I just want something convenient for quick project access. I’d recommend looking into Docker as well. What should I search to start learning about setting that up?
I’ve seen a lot of recommendations for WSL, but I’m curious about the actual benefits. What features do I gain by using it?