Setting up existing MySql website on localhost

I have taken over management of a php/Mysql written website.
I have downloaded the files to my local computer.
First question: Is it possible to set this website up using WampServer install to test this website? Can I arrange the folders so PHP and Mysql will know where the database is?

p.s. I am new but with database experience outside of Mysql. I have been studying SitePoint’s “Build your own Database Driven Web site using PHP & MySql 4th Edition”.

should I be working on line to make changes instead of testing on my development machine?