How to run your own web server for free --
First you need
to make sure that all of the windows security updates
are installed and that you have a firewall and antivirus software installed.
This is VITAL
to the protection of your system and can not be overstated.
If you do not know what a firewall or antivirus package is I dont recomend
that you proceed further.
The next step is
to download a web server - there is a very good free
one at
http://www.aprelium.com . Once you have downloaded the
software and installed it( there is a free support forum should you need it)
you then need
to have a way that people can find your web page.
You can do this for free at
www.no-ip.org . Register and choose a domain
name. You can even use your own for a small fee. Once you have registered
you will be able
to download the no-ip client. This small program will update
the no-ip name servers when your ip address changes. I have several accounts
set up with them so I can offer help with the the setup of the software.
You now need
to make your site available, depending on your firewall this is
done in diferent ways but all you need
to do is allow incoming packets
to
port 80. If you have a router you need
to create a port mapping
to the
computer that is running the web server. Do NOT put the web server on the
dmz as this can put your system at risk.
The web server software can be run as a service if you have windows 2000
or XP. You need
to go into sheduled tasks in the control pannel. Create a
new task and browse
to the abys web server .exe file. Select run at system
startup and deselect the stop after 72 hours tick box. The next time your
system is started the web server will run silently in the background. I can give
further advice on this if you need it.
The very last thing
to do is
to create your
website. Keep the
website clean and
tidy and you will get lots of hits. Dont forget that you only have a limited amount
of upload so large video's and music files are a no no. If you want
to host large
files I would advise you get an account with I web solutions. They are cheap and
reliable. Further details are available at
http://www.i-websolutions.co.uk
Running your own
website is fun and informative but can have implications
attached
to it. If you are not sure about something please please post and
ask. None of us bite and we will be glad
to help.