Laravel Herd 2.1 for Mac

Mac Utilities

Updated Aug 22, 2026

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Laravel Herd 2.1 is the official all in one environment for Laravel and PHP on a Mac. Instead of assembling a stack piece by piece, you install one native app and get PHP, a web server and local sites that just work, each with its own local domain and trusted certificates.You can switch PHP versions per project and create a new Laravel app in moments. The Herd 2 generation adds Herd Studio, a browser panel with live preview, console, logs and terminal, plus workspaces and Laravel Cloud deployment. The core app stays free. Updated Aug 22, 2026.

Key Features

• One native app manages your whole PHP stack
• Local sites with domains and trusted certificates
• Per project PHP versions switched in clicks
• Herd Studio with preview, console, logs and terminal
• Workspaces and Laravel Cloud deployment
• Optional Pro services like databases and local mail

How to Download

1. Check that your Mac runs macOS 14 or later on Apple silicon.
2. Use this link to get the installer: Download from the official site and save the file.
3. Open the disk image, drag Herd into Applications and finish the onboarding.

System Requirements

Herd 2 needs a Mac with Apple silicon running macOS 14 or later. Intel Macs and older macOS versions can use Herd 1, which the official site offers. You need disk space for the app, PHP versions and your projects, plus an internet connection for setup.

FAQs

Is Herd free?

Yes. The core environment, including Herd Studio, is free. Herd Pro adds managed services and deeper debugging tools.

Does Herd only work for Laravel?

No. It is built for Laravel first, but it serves PHP sites and WordPress projects.

Do I still need Docker or Homebrew?

For most local Laravel work, no. Herd installs and manages the stack itself.