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DesktopServer vs ghostwriter

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

DesktopServer icon
DesktopServer
ghostwriter icon
ghostwriter

DesktopServer vs ghostwriter: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

DesktopServer: DesktopServer is an open source WAMP (Windows, Apache, MySQL and PHP) distribution that allows developers to run web server software on Windows desktops for testing purposes. It is free, easy to install and configure.

ghostwriter: Ghostwriter is an open-source word processor that focuses on providing a simple distraction-free interface for writing. With a minimalist design, it strips away complex formatting tools and concentrates on rich text editing, auto-save, and export options.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature DesktopServer ghostwriter
Sugggest Score — —
Category Development Office & Productivity
Pricing Open Source Free

Product Overview

DesktopServer
DesktopServer

Description: DesktopServer is an open source WAMP (Windows, Apache, MySQL and PHP) distribution that allows developers to run web server software on Windows desktops for testing purposes. It is free, easy to install and configure.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

ghostwriter
ghostwriter

Description: Ghostwriter is an open-source word processor that focuses on providing a simple distraction-free interface for writing. With a minimalist design, it strips away complex formatting tools and concentrates on rich text editing, auto-save, and export options.

Type: software

Pricing: Free

Key Features Comparison

DesktopServer
DesktopServer Features
  • Bundled with Apache, MySQL, PHP and other components required for web development
  • Allows running a web server on Windows desktop for testing purposes
  • Open source and free to download and use
  • Easy to install and configure
  • Supports running PHP applications locally
  • Includes phpMyAdmin for MySQL database administration
  • Allows choosing desired versions of Apache, PHP, MySQL etc during setup
  • Portable installation allows running from USB drives
  • Includes web-based DesktopServer control panel
ghostwriter
ghostwriter Features
  • Minimalist interface
  • Rich text editing
  • Auto-save
  • Export options
  • Spell checking
  • Live preview mode
  • Supports multiple file formats
  • Available on Windows, Mac and Linux

Pros & Cons Analysis

DesktopServer
DesktopServer

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Simple installation
  • No need to setup individual components
  • Great for testing websites locally
  • Portable installation
  • Easy to configure
  • Includes useful tools like phpMyAdmin
  • Allows choosing component versions

Cons

  • Not recommended for production use
  • Limited to Windows platform
  • Requires some technical knowledge to configure
  • Not officially supported or updated frequently
  • Lacks advanced administration features
  • Security not hardened for public-facing use
ghostwriter
ghostwriter

Pros

  • Simple and easy to use
  • Fewer distractions for writing
  • Lightweight and fast
  • Completely free and open source
  • Actively developed and maintained

Cons

  • Limited formatting options
  • No collaboration features
  • Less features than full office suites
  • Lacks advanced writing tools

Pricing Comparison

DesktopServer
DesktopServer
  • Open Source
ghostwriter
ghostwriter
  • Free

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Learn More About Each Product

DesktopServer
DesktopServer
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
ghostwriter
ghostwriter
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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