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Hangar, published by Anssol Labs, is an open-source local web development environment for Windows, currently at version 1.0.0 as the initial and only release in its version history. Distributed as a single-binary Windows application, it falls into the category of local server stack managers and web development tools, serving as an open-source alternative to established solutions such as XAMPP, WAMP, and Laragon. The software bundles the core components needed for local web development into one package: Apache and Nginx web servers, MySQL and PostgreSQL databases, multiple switchable PHP versions assignable on a per-project basis, Node.js, the Mailpit email testing tool, and mkcert for generating trusted local SSL certificates. A built-in DNS server enables automatic resolution of *.test domains, while auto-generated virtual hosts simplify the setup of new projects. Service management is handled through a one-click interface, and local HTTPS is provided via the embedded mkcert integration. The package also includes a server-side database auditor capable of emitting runnable SQL migration files, along with a unified launcher for common development utilities such as phpMyAdmin, HeidiSQL, DBeaver, VS Code, PocketBase, and Mailpit. A distinguishing characteristic of Hangar is its first-class AI tool integration through an included Model Context Protocol (MCP) server, making it the first PHP and database stack manager with this capability. Developers can connect MCP-capable agents such as Claude Code, Cursor, or Windsurf, allowing the agent to manage services, execute SQL queries, audit database schemas, and toggle SSL on the user's behalf. Typical use cases include local development and testing of PHP and database-driven applications, managing multi-version PHP environments across projects, running isolated local sites with HTTPS, and automating routine development environment tasks through AI-assisted workflows, all within a self-contained Windows installation.
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