title: Start Apache in background with batch file
body: <p>I'm writing a batch file that will start Apache, and the open <code>http://localhost</code> in the web browser. In its simplest form:</p>
  
  <pre><code>@start apache\bin\httpd.exe
  @start http://localhost
  </code></pre>
  
  <p>This causes the batch file to run Apache, open the web page, and exit. However, the <code>httpd.exe</code> opens in its own terminal window, instead of opening hidden in the background. How can I make it open with no visible windows?</p>