How to Build a Simple Server

A server is any computer connected to the Internet that is equipped to respond to incoming requests for a particular kind of content. Common types of servers are web servers, file servers, and streaming audio servers. Server software can be installed on a computer running any operating system, and many people run servers from their desktop computers. This guide will show you how to install a simple web server on a Windows desktop computer.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer running Windows XP Service Pack 2 or newer
• Internet connection

1. Download the Apache web server for Windows from the "Additional Resources" link below and double click the downloaded file.

2. Press "Next" at the Installer Welcome screen.

3. Accept the License agreement by pressing "I Accept" and "Next."

4. Press "Next" to the Readme screen.

5. Enter your server information. Most users can enter "localhost" (without the quotes) for Network Domain and Server Name. Admin Email should be your email address. Check the box for "for All Users, on Port 80, as a Service." Press "Next."

6. Select "Typical" and press "Next."

7. Press "Finish" to complete the installation. Your computer is now configured as a simple web server.

Tips & Warnings

• The Apache web server only supports the most basic kind of websites by default. Extra functionality can be added with other software. Download PHP to run dynamic web pages and download MySQL to run database-driven web pages. See Additional Resources for links.

Resources

• Download Apache 2.2.11 for Windows
• Download PHP
• Download MySQL