Confused. Why do I need MAMP?

So I have MAMP installed on my Mac. I installed ZenCart on my web server, and I copied all the files to my local machine. But I'm bit confused. What do I need MAMP for? Do I use to to manage the database? Do I need to somehow link it up with Zencart?

I know it's a very beginner question, I'm just trying to understand how this all works conceptually. Thanks in advance for any help.

Jason

The local server allows you to modify and view different parts of Zen Cart on your computer before you upload those modifications to your web server.

You could for instance create a new template locally and view it before going live.

Thanks Clyde! Another dumb question. How does MAMP allow me to view it locally? How do I see my local version of Zencart before I upload the files? Thanks again!

Jason

I'm guessing MAMP is setup like XAMP

so typing localhost in your browser address field would load MAMP

Worked! I installed as per the instructions. One last question. It loaded 95 tables into my database in MAMP. What are those? Thanks again!

Oh and I copied my custom folders but none of the changes affect my local site (they do on my online site) - Any ideas?

The 95 tables are the Zencart database tables.

Did you select the new template in admin on your local machine?