How do I Create Web Servers?
Any computer can become a Web server by installing the right software. A Web server stores and delivers website information to your browser when the proper URL is requested; think of a Web server as your computer with a different operating system. You have many Web server operating systems to choose from and each has its own features that would make one more appealing than another, mainly based upon reasons for creating a Web server, but the basic steps for creating a Web server are the same.
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Things You'll Need
- Computer
- Web server software
- High speed Internet
- Domain name
- DNS service
- Firewall
Instructions
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Software Selection
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Establish the Web server software based upon needs and experience. Choosing the right Web server software depends on intended use, website size, the amount of expected traffic, the operating system of the computer and your current knowledge level and experience regarding servers. Before choosing or downloading any software, read through and become familiar with the software's documentation and installation guidelines first. Apache and iPlanet have large learning curves while Microsoft IIS is more user friendly for beginners.
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Note the features of Apache. Apache HTTP Web Server is for use in small to large operations. Use with UNIX, Microsoft and Novell Netware 6.0 operating systems.
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Determine if Microsoft IIS is a better fit. Microsoft IIS is intended for use in small to large operations. Use with Microsoft operating systems only.
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Pick Oracle iPlanet if you have experience. Oracle iPlanet Web Server 7.0.9 is for medium to large operations. Use with AIX, HP-UX, 32- or 64-bit Linux, Solaris SPARC, Solaris x86 and windows operating systems.
Installing Software
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Follow the Apache link in the resource section. From the menu on the left of the screen, click "Download." From the list of available versions, click newest version without "alpha" in the name. Click the source code that corresponds with your operating system along with the accompanying PGP and MD5 verification files.
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Download Microsoft IIS, follow the Microsoft IIS link in the resources section. At the end of the section titled "Easy to get. Free to use." Click "Download It Now." Download the Microsoft Web Platform Installer 2.0 by clicking the large "Download It Now" button on the right side of the screen. Click "Save File" on the pop-up dialogue box that appears. Run the "wpilauncher.exe" downloaded previously. Select "Frameworks and Runtimes" or "Database," or both, as the platform for your Web server to run on and click "Install." View the license terms in the pop-up window and click "I Accept" to continue installation.
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Complete the Oracle iPlanet download. Follow the Oracle iPlanet link in the resources section. At the bottom of the page select your platform or operating system, read through and check the Oracle iPlanet Web Server License Agreement, and click "Continue." Under "Required Files," click the file name.
After Installation
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Purchase business high-speed Internet access. Several national companies provide business Internet access including AT&T, Comcast and Verizon. Searching for local providers is also an option. All service providers are limited by location; shop around and find a high-speed Internet provider servicing your area.
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Register a domain name. Use a domain name registration service to register a domain name for your website. Popular service providers include Go Daddy, Network Solutions and Active-Domain. Because you are only registering a domain name, go with the lowest available price.
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Sign up and register your domain name with a Domain Name System service provider. Popular providers include Ultra DNS, Verisign and Power DNS.
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Purchase and set up a firewall. Popular firewall software providers include Barracuda Networks, McAfee, AVG and Cisco.
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Tips & Warnings
Installing Web server software can be complicated and the documentation that accompanies your software should be followed closely. Consider purchasing a static Internet Provider (IP) address from your high speed Internet service provider. If your Wide Area Network IP address is not static, use IP address update software to keep your DNS service up to date with your changing IP address. You should purchase a router with built in firewall as a second security barrier against hackers.
Your Apache software download should be verified (see Resources). Most high-speed Internet service intended for home use will not allow Web servers to be used on home connections because of bandwidth usage.
References
Resources
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