How to get phpstorm for free forever : The Ultimate Guide

How to get phpstorm for free forever : The Ultimate Guide

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kamlesh paul

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Dec 8, 2024
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Hey there, fellow Laravel developers!👋 I recently stumbled upon a way to get PhpStorm for free, and I thought I’d share my little secret with you all. Trust me, it’s not as sketchy as it sounds. Let’s dive in and see how we can get our hands on this awesome IDE without breaking the bank!

Table of contents

Why Consider PhpStorm When VS Code Exists?

Alright, let’s get real for a second. If you’re into PHP development, especially with Laravel, you’ve probably heard people loving about VS Code. And they’re not wrong – VS Code is awesome and free. So why even look at PhpStorm? Here’s the scoop:

  • PHP-specific features: While VS Code is great for general coding, PhpStorm is built from the ground up for PHP. It understands PHP code on a deeper level.
  • Laravel support: Out of the box, PhpStorm has some neat Laravel-specific features. With VS Code, you might need to hunt for the right extensions.
  • Database tools: If you’re always diving into your database, PhpStorm’s built-in database tools can be a time-saver. Debugging: PhpStorm’s debugger setup is often smoother, especially for beginners.

But let’s be honest – VS Code can do most of this stuff too with the right extensions. PhpStorm might have a slight edge in some areas, but it’s not leagues ahead. It really comes down to personal preference and workflow.

So why bother with this guide? Well, if you’re curious about PhpStorm but the price tag is holding you back, stick around. We’ll explore some legit ways to try it out without spending a dime. Who knows? You might find it’s worth a shot!

Step 1: Embrace the Early Access Program (EAP)

First things first, let me introduce you to your new best friend: the PhpStorm Early Access Program (EAP). It’s JetBrains’ way of saying, “Hey, wanna test drive our latest features for free?”

Here’s how to get on board:

  • Head over to the PhpStorm EAP page. It’s like the VIP entrance to the coolest dev club in town.
  • Look for the latest EAP build and hit that download button. Don’t worry, it’s 100% free and legit!
  • Install it and start playing around. Fair warning: it might be a bit rough around the edges, but hey, that’s part of the adventure! Now, here’s the kicker: EAP builds are free to use for about a month. When that version expires, just download the next EAP. It’s like a never-ending free trial!

Here’s the kicker: EAP builds are free to use for about a month. When that version expires, just download the next EAP. It’s like a never-ending free trial!

Step 2: Explore Special Licenses

JetBrains isn’t just about making money (shocking, I know). They’ve got a soft spot for certain groups. Let’s see if you fit in:

  • Students and Teachers: If you’re still hitting the books or shaping young minds, you’re in luck! JetBrains offers free licenses for students and educators. Just visit their Education page and prove you’re in academia.
  • Open Source Heroes: Are you working on the next big thing in open source? JetBrains might just give you a free license. Check out their Open Source Support page and see if your project qualifies.
  • Non-Profit Warriors: Fighting the good fight at a non-profit? You might be eligible for a free license too. Reach out to JetBrains and tell them about your cause.

Step 3: Keep Your Eyes Peeled for Promotions

Here’s where it gets a bit tricky, but stick with me. JetBrains sometimes runs promotions or giveaways. It’s like playing the lottery, but for software licenses.

  1. Follow JetBrains on social media (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn).
  2. Subscribe to their newsletter.
  3. Keep an eye on developer forums and communities. You never know when Lady Luck might smile upon you with a free license or an extended trial!

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