How to Make My Computer an HTTP Server

An HTTP server is a computer that accepts HTTP requests from clients such as web browsers. The HTTP server then responds to the request with content such as web pages.

An HTTP server is also known as a web server. If you own a computer with the Windows, Macintosh, Linux, or Unix operating systems installed, you may use it as an HTTP server. Before installing the software, check the documentation to make sure that your computer meets the minimum requirements.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Obtain a static IP from your high speed Internet Service Provider (ISP).

2. If web server software is not preinstalled or is not provided on the software that was provided with your computer, download it from the Internet and then install it.

3. Configure the web server software according to the instructions in the support documentation.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have an operating system different from the ones cited, check their website for HTTP server possibilities. The computer and web service must remain on at all times for people to see your site. You will need to reprogram the default website that is installed on the web server.
• You cannot use a dial-up service as a web server.

Resources

• Wikipedia's Web Server Software List
• Apache
• XAMPP
• Microsoft Help and Support - Search for IIS
• ISP List