How to set up a server...

Hello!

Don't know if this is the correct forum for this, as it isn't a server for a network, more a web-server, so if I'm in the wrong place, just move me!

I have an older spare computer that was always very reliable when it came to running for long periods of time, and with the old Athlon, it stayed cool enough at all times. Since I would like to run my own server for hosting homepages and a couple of forums, I thought I would use the old machine for that. My ISP claims I have unlimited bandwidth, so I should make use of that, shouldn’t I? But I have never set up a server so I have loads and loads of questions. Remember, I have NEVER done this, so don’t worry about over-simplifying things…

At the moment, our computers are connected to a cable modem via a simple hub, we have 4 slots in the hub and can connect 4 computers to the modem via the hub and they all get separate IP-addresses. The IP-addresses seem to change occasionally, maybe once every few months or so. I would like to keep this setup, unless you give me a good reason why it would be better to run everything through the server. The server is intended mainly as something to host things on, not to run a network.

So I need a “hardware” suggestion on how to set it up so that I can access the server from my computer. Or, if this can be done via the internet, some ideas about how to set that up. That would be most convenient if it is possible.

Now to the software bit: Is there any way I could use win XP pro on the server? Or do I have to get a more dedicated server software? Reason why XP would make me happy (apart from having it already) is because I know it fairly well. I have only poked around a little in win server 2003 and it scared me. Lol. I have never used any Linux products, but I am willing to give it a try if you think that would be the best to use. I don’t need to set up members or groups, at least I don’t think so, but I will need to give some people partial access, as a friend wants to host his forum on it, and also, might want to host a homepage, and he needs access to that.

I’m sure I will have more questions once I get started, especially about how to set up the server, but these are the things I need to know before I can think of where to start… If you have any ideas, I will be very grateful!

 

You need to tell us more about what you want this 'server' to do, please.
If you just want to store files and even load programs for your other pcs, XP will do.
If you want to run a website you will need extra software.

 

I need the server to host forums on, I'm going to set up a forum for my school, and possibly run it together with a website as a front to that forum. I also need to set up a small gamers forum.

I also want to create a personal homepage for myself, to learn how make a more complex one, and learn how to set up domains and so on... and I need to show off my photographs somewhere as well.. Lol.

And on top of that, of course use it to link piccies for forums and so on, instead of using an online host.

So I guess the answer is that I need something slightly more advanced...

 

Given a serious inclusive answer would take as long as writing a book.

This page can help you with the connection to the Internet part.

http://www.ezlan.net/myip.html

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Thank you!
That seems to cover my questions regarding how to access the server! But first I need to install it and set it up... Lol.

Not looking for a book, mainly looking for "where to start" and then I think I can probably figure most things out by trial and error and possibly some swearing...

 

You can start with some very simple and take it from there.

http://www.ezlan.net/serving.html

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