OK. This stuff is new to you.

Here's some suggestions from my bit of experience with those items.

FTP software. I currently use FireFTP which is a browser plugin for Firefox. Don't know if you use Firefox, but if not, I highly recommend trying it when you get the chance. I've also used CuteFTP for years which is a standalone program, and still use it on occasion. Both are free.

As for file permissions, the documentation with wwwboard lists those. But, if you ever aren't sure about some, I can let you know what they are. Beware it's not just the files, but also directories that may need the correct permissions.

As for Xampp, you know what I do? I actually develop by uploading to my server. That way I am developing what WILL work on the server. I don't have to worry about configuring a local program to work, then writing code to run in that local environment, then editing it again to make it work on the server. I think that would save a lot of time.

Although, it does take time to edit, save, upload to the server, reload in the browser to see if it works, lather, rinse, repeat.

But, whatever you find works best for you....

As for the service techs, the one you get on the phone or responds to your email rarely knows jack. I could tell you all sorts of stories of my dealings with idiot support techs that apparently didn't know 1/10th of what I did. How the heck are they supposed to help me? Recently I had a very friendly email exchange with the CEO of a company to get a matter corrected. He was very responsive to my needs, but I also put things in a way that I knew he would appreciate. Tact.

But, one thing to keep in mind, they are not going to know any settings for specific programs, so are unlikely to help you much anyway. All they know is how to set their servers to allow you to do things. Doing those things are generally up to you.

Trial and error is good, as long as you remember not to repeat the errors!!! :)

HTH

Brian