Confused now - Local development/Desktop Server or online development

I think it is all a matter of preference... Some might like installing with Mamp, some might like installing with Desktop server, and some might like the good ole Wordpress way. To answer your question yes they can be the same site, but it's all about the access. From what I've learned, Mamp/Desktop Server lets you control the actual files of Wordpress, like the wp_config file, if you ever needed to get into there for any reason. Although you can get the same site access, don't make the mistake and just start downloading WordPress sites and creating multiple databases{unless you have to}as this could get super confusing in the long run. Hope that answered your question. Let me know if I need to clarify.

Creating a local dev environment is standard practice. MAMP/XAMP/VVV/DesktopServer are all fine choices to use. you will need the plugin Migrate DB, or Migrate DB pro, to push and pull DB's to and from the local and live sites. To answer your questions about the password issue, It's most likely that you are using the prior database, and that password is stored in that DB. You can start a new WP site by creating a new folder accessing that folder through your local server, download a new install of WP to the new file that you created and work from there.

That makes sense Carl Sergile. Since I understand a little bit of coding now I will go for the Desk Server. I haven't yet looked at MAMP although I downloaded it as the Treehouse video I am watching teaches in Desktop Server. I have another question, I am already developing a Wordpress website via Desktop Server as I go along with the lessons, but when I try to log into it via the local development app my password is rejected - the app only accepts log in for a Wordpress blog I built years ago. And can I completely delete this blog or deactivate it so I start afresh. Sorry for the many questions I want to develop a dynamic website for someone who wants it - I can develop a static one using source code but client does not want that.

Thank you Jacob you folk are making the way forward seem clear now. Will download a new instal of WP as soon as I get to my work desk, and if I have more questions I will drop them here. I am thanking my Treehouse experience working with source code that it making me understand the language of the answers you are giving.

I highly recommend using MAMP, Christopher. The reason is because MAMP is pretty much plug-n-play with a relatively low amount of settings you must configure. I'm a big fan of Murphy's Law, "anything that can go wrong, will," so an environment where you don't have to do as much to get going means less possibility of error in stuff that doesn't particularly impact the performance of your site.