Newbie wants to set up web server

Hello,

I want to set up a web server using an old computer. The computer has windows ME installed. I want to remove the windows and install Linux on it. I have never used Linux before. I am wondering which Linux I should install.

Just to confirm my understanding about web server (assuming that my computer has nothing on it):
I should first install an OS (in this case Linux).
I should then install apeche (if not already in Linux).
I play with the settings on apeche until I get it right.

Is there any good websites you would recommand that would be helpful?

Thank you very much in advance.

 

I would download Knoppix LiveCD so that you can get used to using Linux, before taking the plunge into using Linux full time.

Also, setting up a Web-Server on a machine, without knowing the risks, I would suggest purchasing some books like the Linux Bible, and the Apache Bible.

 

I know the risk, and I actually think that I am going to set it so that only the computers in my house can access it until I get to know more about it.

I am also thinking that I want to do it so the server is on a different network altogether. I really don't care if that computer get hacked or virus. I just want to try.