How to Get a Free Domain Name on Apache

Register your domain name to add it to Apache.

Apache, an open-source computer program that helps users manage their servers, works on Windows and Linux computers. If you wish to use Apache to help maintain the server for your domain, you must register your domain name, set up your website and install the proper programs. Apache automatically communicates with your server to add your domain to the program. To purchase a domain name, or find one for free, go to a website designed for registering domain names.

Things You'll Need

• NO-IP Update client (see Resources)

Instructions

1. Register your domain name, if it is not already registered. Although you can find free domain names and free registration options, you must often pay around $10 per year to register a domain name. Visit a registration site (see Resources) and type your existing domain name into the box. Enter your contact information and press the "Next" button. Select the appropriate subscription option and enter payment information. Press "Finish."

2. Open the software for your server by double-clicking on its icon. Click on the "No-IP Plus" menu and select "Add Domain." Enter your exact domain name and press "Activate."

3. Download the NOIP Update Client (see Resources) and install it. This client allows you to see a symbol that indicates whether or not the domain name is working. The program displays a happy face when the domain is working.

4. Install Apache, if it is not already installed on your computer. Enter the disc and double-click on the "Install" button. Follow the installation prompts and restart the computer.

5. Double-click on the Apache icon in your system tray bar. Look at the settings to determine they are in the appropriate place.

6. Configure Apache by pressing the "Start" menu and selecting "Programs" then "Apache HTTP Server." Select "Configure Apache Server" then "Edit the Apache Configuration File." Replace the text that reads "localhost" with the name of your server.

7. Open your web browser and type "127.0.0.1" in the URL field of the web browser and press the "Enter" key. Look at the page to see if it loads the Apache test page. This indicates that the server functions properly.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a domain name with a .com or .org ending to make it easier to remember.

References

• No IP: How to Setup Apache Web Server
• Apache: Virtual Host Example
• The Site Wizard: How to Install and Configure Apache 2 Wizard

Resources

• NO IP
• CO: Domain Name Registration