web server

[Thunder]

Is anyone running their own web server?
I've heard different people running different setups...NT Server or Apache on Linux. Just wanted to know what some of your thoughts might be.

Is it cost/time effective to get your own static ip and set up your own server?...or is it better to go with some company that's already out there?

[giambona]

I am running a personal web site on my Win2k Pro. computer. I'm using IIS (Internet Information Services 5), which is built into Win2k.
I'm on a cable modem, so I don't have to worry about losing my IP address.

Cost effectiveness... that depends on how many hits you expect. If you're not going to have that many hits (if you do have a lot of hits, your ISP might get on your back if you start using a lot of their bandwidth), it's fine to host it on your own computer. If you expect to have a lot of hits, you'll want to go with a host like VServers (http://www.vservers.com) or Interland (http://www.interland.com).

[Thunder]

giambona...you said you don't have to worry about IP address for cable modem?

I heard for DSL you have to get a static IP to host your own website...it's not the same for cable? If that's the case then I'll start looking into cable providers in my area.

[topane]

You can run a web server w/o a static ip, but if it's not static you can't have a DNS mapping to the address (unless you host your own DNS). Someone could still enter the server's IP address in their browser to get to the server.

Back to the question at hand, you'll get people telling you that one is better/faster/more secure than the other, when they both have their own little quirks and bugs. NT costs a few bucks but is much easier for the novice who is used to Windows and has little or no experience in a Linux environment.

For the record, I've set up both and I have found NT easier based on my limited experience.

[StonedWheat]

Originally posted by giambona
I am running a personal web site on my Win2k Pro. computer. I'm using IIS (Internet Information Services 5), which is built into Win2k.
I'm on a cable modem, so I don't have to worry about losing my IP address.



How come I have Win2K Pro but I didn't have IIS5 built in. Are you sure, cus I really need it too.

[giambona]

The IP address will remain the same on cable modems and DSL as long as you keep your computer on. You can also force your own IP address if for some reason you have to turn your computer off for an extended period of time.

IIS 5 is on the CD. I think you can install it by going to Add/Remove Programs.

[Jeffbx]

Originally posted by StonedWheat

Originally posted by giambona
I am running a personal web site on my Win2k Pro. computer. I'm using IIS (Internet Information Services 5), which is built into Win2k.
I'm on a cable modem, so I don't have to worry about losing my IP address.



How come I have Win2K Pro but I didn't have IIS5 built in. Are you sure, cus I really need it too.

It's built in but not installed by default. You can add it in Control Panel.. Add Remove Software.