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If you have a website too big for a commercial web host or you want to be able to quickly make changes on your website, you may want to try to run your own web server on the computer you are viewing this page from. This guide will tell you home web server basics and not tell you how to work with a particular software.
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QuestionWhat are the advantages of having a web server?Richard Marczewski Jr. is a Full Stack Marketer and owner of Creativity Scientist in Worcester, Massachusetts. With over 10 years of experience, he specializes in marketing, digital media, and content creation. He works with businesses as their outsourced storytelling partner and offers website development, videography, and e-commerce solutions. He started the hipster mustache trend in 2006 and is a classic Nintendo expert. Richard has an MBA in Management from Fitchburg State University.There are several advantages, like it might also save you money, as you won't incur fees from hosting providers. Hosting at home can also give you an added layer of privacy and security since your data will stay under your control and at home. This is why many companies host their sensitive information on local or internal servers. However, you will need a strong internet connection and a steady power supply. You also have to know how to keep your server secure from threats. This means managing security measures to protect your data. Additionally, you'll handle any technical problems that come up, like server outages. Unlike paid hosting services, where experts take care of these issues, you will be responsible for fixing them yourself.
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QuestionCan I work on my PC after turning my PC into a web server?Community AnswerIt is possible to do so, however, using your computer while it is a server means that you are opening your computer up to unnecessary vulnerabilities. Server = Server PC/Mac/Computer = Computer. Yes, you can do what you're asking, however it is very much urged against doing so.
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QuestionCan I use a Windows server instead of Apache?TruGenX LabCommunity AnswerYes, but for Windows, you need to learn IIS first, then use the Apache plugin if you need it. Otherwise IIS will work just fine. If you want to move to a free OS like a Linux Distro, then Apache is the way to go.
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Tips
- Keep your computer running all the time. You can turn off the monitor or if the web server program runs in the background, you can put your computer "to sleep".Thanks
- If anybody outside your network can't see your website at http://yourWANip/ and you are behind a router you will need to port forward. Since routers vary there are different ways to do this. Consult the manual that came with your router or search your router on Google.Thanks
- You probably won't be able to see your own website using the domain you bought. You should see it from http://127.0.0.1/ or http://yourLANip/.Thanks
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Warnings
- Check with your ISP to make sure you are allowed to have a home server. Some request that you use another port other then port 80. If so you will need to configure your webserver to listen on another port.Thanks
- Do not put large files up for download, this will make your computer run a lot slower on the internet.Thanks
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Things You'll Need
- Computer
- Web server program
- Stable internet connection
About This Article
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