Step 6 – Import the sample_data.sql data (optional)

If you require the sample data to be installed to the database you must complete a further Import process. Select the Import tab in the PHPMyAdmin interface and browse to the renamed installation directory and select the sample_data.sql file - that you edited with the correct table prefix in Step 2 -  in the sql->mysql directory.

Import screen ready for the instruction to proceed with importof sample data

Once the file is selected from the browser click Go.

If all goes according to plan you will receive a confirmation message.

Confirmation message for successful Import of the sample_data.sql

When you next Login to the Administrator Back-end (or refresh your browser if already there) you will now see the Back-end has been fully populated by the Sample Data.

Administrator Back-end – The Control Panel with Sample Data installed

It is now advisable to scout around the functions of the Control Panel and see what everything can do and get used to the Joomla! way of doing things.

The Front-end display also looks considerably healthier with the Sample Data installed. Spend some time navigating around and getting a feel for Joomla!

You can Login to the Front-end using the same username and password as you do for the Back-end. A more secure alternative is to have a separate username and password for Front-end access.

Site Front-end - The Front Page with Sample Data installed

To complete the installation proceed to Step 7 – Delete the installation directory.