How to Configure a Web Server

With a dedicated computer and a high-speed connection, any PC user can create a web server. With the proper password and address, your PC files can be accessed from anywhere in the world. PC users can use a web server to share music, files and video with their family and friends.

Instructions

1. Download and install the latest patches and security updates for your operating system. Update the security suite including your antivirus, firewall and anti-spyware.

2. Disable firewall and instant messaging software. Install Apache Http Server. When prompted, enter "homeip.net" for Network and server name. Input your email address as the Administrator. Select "Typical Installation" when asked.

3. Open your web browser. Enter "http://localhost/." You will see a message beginning with: "If you can see this..." You have successfully installed Apache.

4. Copy the files you want to share into this directory: ""C:/Program Files/Apache Group/Apache2/htdocs."

5. Click "Start," "Run" and "cmd." At the command prompt, type "cd C:\Program Files\Apache Software Foundation\Apache2.2\bin."

6. Create your server password. Enter: htpasswd -c "C:\Documents and Settings\password\my_password.txt" username. Replace username with your login id. Open notepad. Enter: Authtype Basic AuthName "Secure area. Enter your username." AuthUserFile "C:\Documents and Settings\password\my_password.txt" AuthGroupFile /dev/null require authorized-user.

7. Name the file ".htaccess" and place it in the htdocs directory. Open your browser and return to "http://localhost/." You will be prompted for your login and password.

Tips & Warnings

• You can replace "homeip.net" with any name of your choice.

• Do not forget the "." in front of htaccess. file.

Resources

• Download Apache Server software from its website.