If you’re like me, using EasyPHP on Windows 7 for local development and have encountered this PHP/MySQL error:

Warning: mysql_connect() [function.mysql-connect]: [2002]
A connection attempt failed because the connected party did
not (trying to connect via tcp://localhost:3306) in
C:\Path\To\Script.php on line 26

Warning: mysql_connect() [function.mysql-connect]: A connection
attempt failed because the connected party did not properly
respond after a period of time, or established connection failed
because connected host has failed to respond. in
C:\Path\To\Script.php on line 26

Fatal error: Maximum execution time of 30 seconds exceeded in
C:\Path\To\Script.php on line 26

..then you’re in luck! Here’s a quick easy fix:

1. Go to “C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc“.
2. Open “hosts” with Notepad program.
3. Uncomment this line: “127.0.0.1 localhost” or add it if it’s not on the host entry.

That’s it! Save the changes you’ve made and refresh your browser.

Hope this helps!

* NOTE - Make sure you have a full access on “hosts” file.

1. Right click on “hosts” file then click “Properties“.
2. On “Security” tab click “Edit…” button.
3. Select the user that you are currently using.
4. Under “Permissions for Users” box, tick “Full control” on “Allow” column.
5. And then click “OK” button to apply the changes.