Web Server Newbie

[kpxgq]

I have a small computer (old POS p2 system) hooked up to my router that i want to use as a either an FTP or web server.. which in turn is hooked up to a cable connection provided by Earthlink-Time Warner Cable (dynamic IP). THe router is a DLink DI-604 4port with Virtual Web Server support... is this possible? what da heck is virtual web server? i want to be able to upload/download files from the "server" at home from anywhere. do i have to pay for IP/DNS registration?

[AirR']

set up the server on the old box, it will run off of port 80, forward that port to that box on your router. To access it outside of your network, you would just type in the IP adress. As for FTP, you will have to set up an FTP page as well, and also set up users and passwords.

[ua549]

The problem with a dynamic IP is knowing what the IP is when you are away. It will work better if you get your own domain name then use a dynamic DNS server service so you can always connect using your domain name.

The other issue you face is whether FTP and web serving is allowed by the acceptable use policy for your internet account. The ports may be blocked.

[AirR']

but the ports can be changed and you can get a dynamic subdomain or something like that

[PDR60]

Check out www.changeip.com . Register a domain name and set up your server. Just be sure you put that web/ftp server in a dmz and you can port map through a firewall/router. I would also change the ports on ftp if you know how. If your running an IIS box please go to M$ and get the IIS lockdown tool so you have some security on the web box.