web server?

[seco80]

I know this ois probably very silly but i was just wondering what a web server is and what it actually does and if there are any advantages to ahving one.

[DrZaius]

Hi seco80,

A web server is a system that hosts a web site so that people can access it over the internet. It "serves" the HTML files.

[seco80]

cool thanks, so can u sum up the process of putting up a website, i am trying to set one up.

[DrZaius]

In most cases, it's cheaper to just have the site hosted for you. You can find good hosting for around $5 a month. You can find lots of good info on hosting services here.

http://www.webhostingtalk.com/

If you would still like to setup your own, here's all the info you need on both hardware and software.

http://www.dslwebserver.com/

Hope that helps.

[doctorgonzo]

If you do want to set up your own server, check with your ISP to see if they will allow you to or if you will have to pay more. ISPs usually don't allow people with basic home internet service to run web servers. That's one reason to choose to have your site hosted instead of doing it yourself.

[DrZaius]

Also check to see if your ISP gives you some free webspace, most usually come with 2Mb to 5Mb accounts, plenty for a simple homepage.

[seco80]

thank u all