Can't start MySQL, port 3306 busy

Question

I'm trying to start MySQL from XAMPP (under Windows Vista), but it's saying that's port 3306 is busy.

What would be the best way with check what application is using that port and how to free it?

Answer 1

In a command shell, run:

netstat -b -p TCP

and look for a line that says localhost:3306 in the second column. Below this is the application's name using the port.