- How do I install Laravel Installer globally via Composer?
- Run `composer global require laravel/installer` in your terminal. Ensure Composer’s global bin directory is in your system PATH so the `laravel` command is available globally. Verify with `laravel --version`.
- Can I use Laravel Installer to create a project with a specific Laravel version?
- Yes, specify the version with `laravel new project-name --version=X.Y`. For example, `laravel new my-app --version=10.0` installs Laravel 10.0. Check supported versions in the [Laravel docs](https://laravel.com/docs#installation).
- Does Laravel Installer work with Laravel 10.x or newer?
- Yes, the installer supports the latest Laravel LTS and minor versions. Always verify compatibility by checking the [Laravel Installer releases](https://github.com/laravel/installer/releases) or running `laravel new --help`.
- Is Laravel Installer safe for production environments?
- No, this is a development tool only. It’s designed for scaffolding new projects locally or in CI/CD pipelines. Never use it in production—it’s not a runtime dependency or deployment tool.
- How can I automate project creation in CI/CD (e.g., GitHub Actions)?
- Add a step like `composer global require laravel/installer && laravel new my-app` to your workflow. Cache Composer dependencies to speed up builds. Example: [GitHub Actions template](https://github.com/laravel/installer#ci-cd).
- What if I need custom project templates or pre-installed packages?
- The installer uses Laravel’s official skeleton. For custom setups, use `composer create-project` with a custom repo or extend the project post-install via scripts in `composer.json` under `post-install-cmd`.
- Are there alternatives to Laravel Installer for project scaffolding?
- Yes: `composer create-project laravel/laravel` (basic), `laravel/new` (deprecated), or custom scripts. However, Laravel Installer is the most streamlined and officially maintained option for Laravel-specific projects.
- How do I handle PHP version requirements when using Laravel Installer?
- The installer defaults to Laravel’s PHP requirements (e.g., PHP 8.1+ for Laravel 10.x). Ensure your system meets these before running `laravel new`. Check Laravel’s [system requirements](https://laravel.com/docs#server-requirements).
- Can I use Laravel Installer for microservices or modular projects?
- Not directly. The installer creates a monolithic Laravel project. For microservices, use `composer create-project` with a base template or scaffold services manually. Consider tools like Lumen for lightweight services.
- How often is Laravel Installer updated, and how do I stay informed?
- Updates align with Laravel releases. Monitor the [GitHub repo](https://github.com/laravel/installer) for changelogs or subscribe to Laravel’s [blog](https://laravel-news.com) for announcements. Run `composer global update` periodically to update globally.