Creating a webserver from a prebuilt cpu

[Gundamflare]

Hi, I'd like to run a webserver off my Compaq Presario 5wv280, I know crapaq's aren't the most reliable, but I might as well make some use of this cpu as I am building a new one. The question is, how do I do it? I'm willing to format, learn UNIX based platforms as well as learning other languages. If possible can someone just create a dumbdown-link provided reply? I'd really enjoy it. This webserver is for personal use, however, i'd like to buy a domain name. I would like; My SQL, ASP, Perl and Apache configured on the machine.

Thanks,

Kesh

[macyh]

As for learning Linux, the only real way to learn it is by using it. My first suggestion is to see if there's a Linux user's group in your area and to join in. Many even have regular install fests, where you can take in a system, install Linux and debug it with a group of knowledgeable enthusiasts.

Hardware? Your Compaq should work fine. The only thing that's likely not supported would be a WinModem card. FWIW, I have a 486/133 w/64mb for a webserver running Linux at one site, it's stable and works fine, but it doesn't take many hits, mostly is just handles some email.

The most frequently used versions of Linux are RedHat, Debian and Mandrake. All are very decent, similar but a little different. I'm partial to RH, but that's mostly due to familiarity.

I'd download and burn the three CD's plus the doc's CD from RH7.3 and have at it. The how to stuff from RH it good, but there are a couple of good books out there, some even come with CD's. You'll have to decide if you want to do a server only or a complete workstation/ server with X windows.

I'd start at http://www.linux.org and use that to find other websites, book reviews and general info.

For Linux/Unix admin books, it's hard to go wrong with anything from O'Rielly http://www.ora.com There are others that are also worthwhile.

Don't forget there are lots of good websites and discussion boards for Linux, Apache and PERL. Most have areas for new users that are very helpful in supporting people like you.

Good luck and welcome to Linux.

[Scott]

There is also the Linux help thread here at Speedguide.net


http://forums.speedguide.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=64454

[Gundamflare]

well, lucky for me, linux redhate 8.0 just came out, and i'm starting to think someone wants me to have a webserver..lol. Well anyway, this is my predicament, I don't know what to download, i'm literally attacked with folders of different labelling and i'm scared :| for the system specified, what do I have to download?

[bug]

You can get RedHat 8 here:

http://www.linuxiso.org/distro.php?distro=7