ok

tried the modwrite test, it works

from trying to read the file in my notepad, it was all compressed

i read the file on your site

seems I have to manually insert the info for the database

I got a screen at first saying elgg would configure it, so I put in the info

now it seems I have to edit the file

I understand this

so now the settings.php has the DB name and user and PW in it

yet still it says

Elgg couldn't connect to the database using the given credentials.

Check the user name, path and password of your database.

thanks

I know the user name and pw is right

I didn't see a path direct in the settings.php file

other than localhost

is the local host direct the 'path' u r referring too?

thanks

ohhh I see... Well, you are welcome!