8 Ways to Fix Apache Server Not Starting in MAMP Error

Learn how to fix the error: Apache Server Not Starting in MAMP. Our Apache Support team is here to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.

Apache Server Not Starting in MAMP Error | Solution

MAMP is a popular tool among developers for setting up a local server environment. It turns the computer into a functional server stack using Apache, MySQL, and PHP, making it especially useful for developing WordPress websites. Both the free version and the Pro edition, MAMP are a solid choice for local development.

However, like any development environment, MAMP can occasionally run into issues. A common problem is that the Apache server does not start.

If you’re facing other related issues like the “localhost refused to connect” error, check out this guide on fixing MAMP localhost connection issues.

Today, we will walk through the common causes and fixes to get Apache back up and running.

Why Apache Server Fails to Start in MAMP

Before jumping into fixes, let’s take a look at some of the common causes:

• Apache usually uses ports 80 (HTTP) and 443 (HTTPS). If another application is using these ports, Apache won’t start.
• Incorrect settings in Apache’s configuration files can prevent the server from starting up.
• Essential Apache files may be missing or damaged.
• Apache may not have the required file or directory access.
• Programs like Skype tend to hijack Apache’s default ports.
• We may already have a version of Apache running in the background.
• Using mismatched versions can also lead to failure.

8 Ways to Fix Apache Not Starting in MAMP

1. Check for Port Conflicts

To see if another application is using the default ports, run the following commands in Terminal:

sudo lsof -i :80

sudo lsof -i :443

If another process is using these ports, either stop it or change Apache’s ports in MAMP:

1. Open MAMP > Preferences.
2. Then, click the Ports tab.
3. Change the Apache port to something like 8888 or 8080.

2. Review Apache Configuration Files

Misconfigurations in Apache’s config files can stop it from launching. To check:

1. Go to the MAMP directory.
2. Then, open: `/Applications/MAMP/conf/apache/httpd.conf`.
3. Check for syntax errors.

Now, run this command to validate the config:

apachectl configtest

If there’s a syntax error, the command will point it out.

If you come across errors like “client denied by server configuration”, take a look at this detailed explanation of the Apache error.

3. Check for Missing Files

If key files are missing, MAMP won’t function correctly. A quick fix is to reinstall MAMP, which will restore any corrupted or missing files.

4. Adjust Permissions

Permission issues can block Apache from accessing files. To fix:

sudo chmod -R 755 /Applications/MAMP

This sets the correct permissions for the MAMP directory.

5. Check the Apache Error Log

Now, check the error log located at:

/Applications/MAMP/logs/apache_error.log

Open this file with a text editor and look for messages that might explain the failure.

If you’re seeing a generic error like “HTTP Error 500” in MAMP, this step-by-step guide can help you troubleshoot the issue.

6. Make Sure No Other Apache Instances Are Running

Another Apache server might already be running. To check, close MAMP and open Activity Monitor (Mac) or Task Manager (Windows).

Then, look for “httpd” or “Apache” and end those processes.

Then, restart MAMP.

7. Stop Apache from the Command Line

If other methods fail, force Apache to stop using the command line.

• On Windows: Open PowerShell.
• On Mac: Open Terminal.

Then, run:

apache -k shutdown

Now, try relaunching MAMP.

8. Check Your Document Root Settings

If you have recently changed or renamed the Document Root folder, MAMP may be unable to locate it. To verify, go to MAMP > Preferences > Web Server.

Make sure the Document Root points to the correct folder.

Issues with site access from phpMyAdmin may also stem from Document Root or config settings. If that’s the case, refer to this guide on fixing MAMP phpMyAdmin access errors.

[Need assistance with a different issue? Our team is available 24/7.]

Conclusion

Running into startup issues with Apache in MAMP can be difficult. Whether it’s a simple port conflict or a deeper configuration issue, walking through these steps should help you pinpoint the cause and get your local server running again.

In brief, our Support Experts demonstrated how to fix the error: Apache Server Not Starting in MAMP.