How i host web site on my home/office computer?

That's an interesting question...

Let me first give you a quick answer before I bore you with details.

Yes, you CAN host a web site on your home/office computer.

And why do I think it is an interesting question - Because, unfailingly, at least one student from my beginners class throws this at me and so I guess it's something that everyone wants to know. Also the answer to this question helps us to know, in a little bit more detail, what web servers are and how they work.

Let me rephrase the question - Why can't our home computers with broadband internet and 24/7 connectivity be used as web Servers and host web sites? Actually, our home computers CAN act like web servers. Here are a few things we need:

• A static I.P. (Internet protocol) address
• 24/7 Internet connectivity (a fast connection would definitely help)
• Web server software
• A stable and reliable operating system

Hosting your web site from your home/office computer

Typically, a web server is a powerful machine with a stable and reliable operating system and a 24/7 Internet connection. A web server also needs a static I.P. (Internet protocol) address so that the location of the hosted web site/s does not change. In addition to the web server software (which serves web pages), several other software that help in maintenance, enhancing functionality and securing the machine from attacks from hackers need to be installed on the machine.

The need for a good operating system

Obviously, you need a stable and reliable operating system that can serve web pages quickly and not crash or hang even under heavy traffic. Here are some other hallmarks of a good operating system for a web server:

• In-built security features to protect from hackers and virus attacks.
• Easy of administration through shell environment or GUI-based software.
• Scalability to up-gradations to ensure enhanced stability and security. Also, the process of installation of updates should easy and as smooth as possible.
• In-built necessary server software should be a part of the operating system else, they should be available and installed quickly and smoothly.
• Availability of third-party software - No operating system is perfect and complete. Third party applications can provide additional security, better features and functionality.

With the above points in mind, the Linux operating system fits the bill pretty well - So does Windows, actually, but you do need to be a little more experienced in server administration if you want to run a Windows based web server.

Linux is also cheaper than Windows and has tons of free third-party software and applications that can be smoothly integrated in the operating system to increase functionality and security. Linux, which is an Open Source Software (OSS), works well with other OSS such as Apache (the most popular web server software), MySQL (a good stable database application and server), PHP (server-side scripting language) and has several in-built applications such as FTP (File Transfer Protocol), sendmail (SMTP email server) etc.

The need for a static I.P. (Internet Protocol) address

Each computer connected to the Internet needs to have a unique number assigned to it so that it can be identified and there are no conflicts with other computers. This unique number is the Internet Protocol (I.P.) address. The I.P. address is just a series of four numbers each less than 255 and separated by dots (periods). For example, 214.34.7.90 would be a valid I.P. address.

Since, for us humans, I.P. addresses are not as easy to remember, the "powers that be" created domain names. However, each domain name is "tied up" or "associated" with an I.P. address. The domain name and its corresponding I.P. address are stored on several different computers scattered around the globe. These machines called Domain Name Servers help to resolve the domain name to its I.P. address. In layman's language - when you type a domain name on your browser, it first checks with a Name Server and gets the corresponding I.P. address (something that computers understand better than us) and then loads the web site.

An I.P. address is the address of a computer on the internet - it specifies the location of a server that hosts a web site. It follows that if the I.P. address changes, the web site will not be found if you try to load it on a browser by typing its domain name.

Now, most of us use net connections on our home/office computers from the local Internet Service Provider. These ISPs assigned our computers with a dynamic I.P. address each time we connect. Thus, each time we disconnect and start the connection again, our computers are given a different I.P. address. So if the I.P. address of your home/office computer changes, your web site will not load unless you go and change the information on the Name Server. Obviously you cannot make these changes each time your computer's I.P. address changes. For this reason, to host a web site on your home/office computer you need a "static" I.P. address - an I.P. address that does not change.

The problem is that ISPs generally do not allow you to host a web site on your computer. And they do this by allocating a new I.P. address each time you connect and also blocking required ports. Having said that, you can get a static I.P. addresses by either upgrading your package (to something like a "business package") or shift to an ISP that does provides one. The cost of a static I.P. can be an extra $30 to $50 per month (maybe even more). Check with your Internet Service Provider. This, in my opinion, is just too much when web hosting companies offer feature-rich packages for as low as $10 per month.

Also check DynDNS.com if you want a static I.P. from a dynamic address. FYI, some ISPs would actually fine you if you host a web site on their net connection.

The need for 24/7 connectivity to the Internet

A fast Internet connection is as important as a stable 24/7 connection. You would not like your web site to download slowly would you? Any downtime in the net connection would result in your web site being offline.

The need for Server software

According to Netcraft server statistics, Apache still is the most popular and widely used web server on the net. Apache is an open source software (read free) that can be installed on various platforms including Linux/Unix, Windows, Mac. For more details on Apache refer - What is Apache and what does it do?.

You can also have a look at a detailed list of important web servers.

Its easy to install the Apache web server. In fact, most Linux versions come with an Apache server already running or one that can be installed and configured in a few clicks.

The need configuring your computer

If you plan to host a web site on your home/office you cannot leave it open to attacks by hackers. Also you need to protect important directories - ones containing files of the operating system or other programs that are critical for smooth and error-free running of the server. Your system has to be configured properly to protect against accidental or intentional misuse.

The final conclusions

Hosting your web site on your home/office computer would be a great learning experience to all adventurous people out there. For most of us, it's wiser and quicker to just go to a reliable hosting company and pick up a web hosting package because these companies take care of maintaining the server, the internet connection, server security and power backups.

Select a Web Host

You've arrived at the 2nd step to creating a web site.
After you have selected and registered your domain name you're ready to choose a web host.
A web host provides you with the space, tools and support to create your web pages and email accounts (you@yourdomain.com).
This is where all the action happens, so please read this page carefully to ensure that you choose the most appropriate option for your site.

Other Web Hosting Options

After watching the video above, please make sure you read the following information because I discuss two more hosting options not offered at WebsitePalace.com.
It's important to note that you do not have to host your site at the same place you register your domain name.
You could register you domain name at WebsitePalace.com and then choose to host your site some place else like Powweb.com, for example.

Why Powweb Hosting?

Powweb is one of the popular hosting companies on the Internet. 
They are a privately owned, debt-free company that maintains all of their services in-house and have been providing top-notch web hosting since 1999.
Easy Website Builder Available
Powweb also offers a site wizard similar to Website Tonight plans (above) where you can choose a pre-created layout/template and create a website in minutes.
No programming is necessary.  All you do is select the design you want and add your text.
Free Built-In Shopping Cart
The Powweb hosting plan also comes with a built-in shopping cart in case you want to take orders from your site (no installation necessary). 
This is an ideal feature if you plan to sell products. Setting up a shopping cart can be a hassle so this is a very nice convenience.
Use Your Own HTML Editor
If you don't want to use their free website builder, you can also use software like CoffeeCup to create and edit your pages. 
So if you own the software (or plan to buy it), you can save and publish all your work directly to the web from the software.  Dreamweaver is also a great editor you can use. I used it to create and design this site.
Advanced Features
This hosting option also provides the platform so you can add advanced features such as message boards, chat rooms and other interactive features.
Tons of Satisfied Customers
When you visit their site, you'll notice that they proudly display over 100 testimonials from their satisfied customers that prove they are well worth the time and investment. 
They also pride themselves on their peer-to-peer chat forums so you can chat with other Powweb customers as you share ideas, ask questions, and more.
How to Sign Up
When you register your domain name at WebsitePalace.com, don't select a web host -- only order the domain.
Then after you have finished the domain name registration process, head on over to Powweb's site and sign up for their hosting.

All-in-One Hosting Option: Site Build It

This host is ideal if you plan on selling hard goods and/or want to learn how to make money from your website.   If you choose this method you don't have to register a domain name separately because everything you need is included in the price.
I repeat...

If you choose Site Build It!, you do not need to go to WebsitePalace.com to buy a domain name, choose hosting or anything. Site Build It! takes care of all that for you.

All the tools you need for building your site are in one place.  The domain name, hosting, web page building tools, marketing help, search engine submission, ranking reports, you name it!
SBI! uses templates so no HTML knowledge is necessary.  All you do is choose a template of your choice and add your text to build your website.
Don't get me wrong. You can use Powweb or WebsitePalace.com's regular hosting plan for a money-making website, but you don't get the marketing and search engine ranking help that you will definitely need if you want to draw in targeted traffic.
I would never say you must use SBI! to achieve success, I'm just saying it's the best system I know. A lot of people attempt to build an ecommerce website using one of the less expensive hosts only to come back to Site Build It because they need help driving traffic to their sites.
After all, if you don't learn how to generate traffic, you won't make any money.
The other hosts mentioned here do not show you how to get a top 10 ranking in the major search engines.   You are on your own.
SBI also comes with a brainstorming tool to help you pinpoint the most profitable topic (high demand and low supply).  Often times people choose the wrong topic/niche because of too much competition or not enough people searching for it.  SBI makes sure you don't make that mistake.

At $25/month ($299 per year), SBI may cost more than the other hosts listed here, but it will cut out numerous learning hurdles of both creating and marketing your site.

One More Summary of The Hosting Options

Just in case you're still not sure about which hosting option to select, here's an overview and some basic tips on choosing the right hosting option for you..
1) WebSite Tonight (@ WebsitePalace.com)
If you're looking for a quick and easy way to build a personal or professional-looking site then choose one of the WebSite Tonight packages.  The point and click web page building tools make creating your site a breeze.
This is a great plan for simple, personal websites.  A lot of people use Website Tonight for "About Me", wedding and vacation sites.  It's a great choice for sites that will have lots of photos.
All you do is select a design template and then add your text and pictures. No software or programming experience necessary. Beginners who need a very simple site love this option.
2) Powweb
A great option for large (or expanding) sites because they provide an unlimited amount of space.   Quite honestly all these plans have enough space for almost anyone, but Powweb is by far the most generous.
This is the only hosting option that offers a built-in shopping cart, so if you plan to sell products then you should keep this in mind. 
The Turbo Charged option also has the functionality available so you can build a cart, but you'll have to install it yourself.  With Powweb hosting, it's already setup for you.
They also provide a built-in web page builder for beginners with tons of design templates.  Or if you want, you can use your own program like CoffeeCup or my favorite, Dreamweaver.
When you are registering your name, just select the hosting option that says you'll "park your domain here for free".  This just means that you are using another company (Powweb) to host your site.  Then after your domain has been registered you'll go to Powweb's site to sign up for hosting.
3) Turbo-Charged (@ WebsitePalace.com)
For those of you that already own or do not need any web page creation tools, choose the Turbo-Charged option. 
The plans start at only $3.95 per month and if you do not own any web design software you can use an editor like CoffeeCup to create and manage your web pages.
It also comes with the functionality that will allow you to create message boards, shopping carts and add other interactive features to your site.

Want Someone Else to Build & Design Your Site?If you're in a hurry and/or don't want to learn how to build your site yourself. Check out the custom design options and prices offered at Website Palace. There are even customized logo options.

Need Help Choosing a Website Topic?

Choosing a topic for your website can be tough. Everyone seems to have the next "big idea" or looks for hot topics.

After all, wouldn't you love to be the one who invented MySpace, FaceBook or YouTube?

It often seems so simple. Just come up with a cool idea, build a site, sell it for millions to Yahoo or Google and you'll be rich!

Not exactly.

While this idea has worked for a handful of people, the average story doesn't go quite like that. Which is why I wanted to create this all-important page on topic choice.

Looking to Make Money?

If your goal is to make money with your site then I always recommend the simple approach.

I know you would love to create something like the next MySpace, but due to all the programming and technical knowledge needed to build and maintain a site like that, it's not a good idea for the average person.

Even if you are going to pay a programmer to create your site, it would cost you thousands of dollars. I don't think people realize the amount of resources that go into creating a site that offers user interaction and profiles.

Not to mention you'd probably need dedicated hosting space, which can cost you hundreds of dollars per month. You can forget the $10/month hosting plans.

Yes, these sites look cool on the surface but there are a lot of hidden headaches the average person does not see.

So what do I mean when I say "the simple approach?" I'm encouraging you to do what I've done for the past 10 years.

I don't own any fancy MySpace-like websites. I don't have a lot of Web programming skills. I just create sites on topics that interest me, draw in traffic and make money from affiliate programs like Google AdSense and other companies that sell products that relate to my topics.

Say you love to prepare desserts. You could create top-notch-cake-recipes.com where you offer all your favorite cake recipes. You'd create your site and then spend time learning about SEO (search engine optimization) so your pages get found in Google, Yahoo, etc.

Then you could make money from Google ads and refer other products that your audience may find interesting. For instance, you could join Target.com's free affiliate program and refer some of their cookware.

Target provides you with the links to put into your site and you would earn a commission on every sale your site makes. They send you a check at the end of the month! There are thousands of affiliate programs like this.

An affiliate site like this is much easier to create and maintain than some large, programming-intense MySpace-like website. You could manage the site yourself with a program like Dreamweaver or CoffeeCup and you'd simply follow these website creation instructions to get started.

Or you can use a program like Site Build It!, which was created to help people make money from hobby or personal interest websites. Their entire focus is to help you earn an income no matter topic you choose.

Not Sure What Topic is Best?

I get the "What's-the-best-topic" question a lot. Quite frankly, I cannot answer that. That's something you have to decide for yourself.

If your goal is to make money then I cannot stress how important it is for you to select something that holds your interest. Remember, this is going to be a site you will need to update frequently to keep your visitors interested and maintain your traffic levels.

So it's important you select something you know a lot about or at least have some interest in learning more.

Avoid The "How to Make Money" Topic

This is a big trap many newcomers fall into. If they can't decide on a topic they choose the make money online idea since they want to make money themselves.

It's always a bad idea to choose a topic that you have no experience with. Unless you have the proof you are making some cash online and plan on showing people how you've done it, then you run the risk of creating a site like the millions of other "get rich online" sites.

Not to mention this niche is overly saturated and you'd have a hard time generating traffic. Have you ever searched for make money online in Google?

There are millions of sites on this topic and it's difficult to decipher which ones are real and which ones are just scams. You don't want to be lumped into that pile of mush.

Watch my video below for more reasons why this is such a bad idea...

Why is Topic Choice So Important?

You must understand. Sites that do well online are sites that have their own unique spin on a certain topic. The content is well written, updated frequently, the Webmasters understand the basics of Net marketing and they know their audience.

These are all things you must execute well if you want to become successful, and it will not happen overnight. So this is one reason topic choice is crucial.

You have to be patient while waiting on that traffic to come, so you might as well choose something that will keep your interest or you'll get bored and abandon your site.

And don't worry about what others are doing. Just because you see someone making millions with one topic, don't think you have to do the same thing or even something similar.

The reason that person is so successful is because of the points I mentioned above. Their passion for the topic is driving their creativity thus generating success. If you chose that same topic you might not be as motivated because it's not your "thing."

I know it's tempting to copy someone else's successful idea but it's really a bad idea for most people.

Now it's time to choose what peeks your interest and develop your own personal spin on it. That's the first step to being successful out here, so I hope you take this message seriously.

Not to Discourage You, But...

The goal of this article is not to discourage you from creating a complex, interactive site. If that's something you have your heart set on then go for it.

I just want you to understand what's involved. You can't just buy a software program, download some template and create an interactive site like FaceBook, YouTube or MySpace.

Extensive, hardcore programming is required. So you'll either have to learn yourself or pay someone else BIG to do it for you.

It's much better to start small and simple with a site like I described above and once the traffic and money starts coming in, then you can expand to something more robust and complex.

It will save you a lot of money and headaches if you do it that way.

See Successful Sites on a Variety of Topics

Site Build It! offers a page that shows successful websites on a variety of different topics. It's a really great page because you can see the many different ways you can make money online.

From selling products, auction sellers, affiliate marketing, hobby-based sites, and more. This will give you an idea of what is possible when it comes to generating an income online.

See the site here.

Quick Overview of Creating a Website

There's a lot of information on this site and if you're a beginner, it can be overwhelming.  I created this quick guide just to give you an idea of what's involved with creating a website.

I encourage you to read it through once without clicking on any of the links just so you can understand the big picture.  Then after you've absorbed the info, go back and click the links for more info.

Also watch my video that provides a quick overview of what you need to begin your site.

What You Need to Build a Website

1) Domain Name:  The domain name creates the address of your site.  So, mywebsite.com would be an example of a domain name. Domain names are paid for yearly and you can register them here.

Looking for a FREE site?

I never endorse free webhosts.  They are too unstable, you never really own your site and you do not receive a true domain name.  Instead your address will be something like http://freesite.yourdomain.com.  In some cases, the domain may be even longer.

2) Web Host

A website cannot exist without a web host.  This is the company that houses your files and provides the environment for you to create and save pages to the Internet.

Web hosts are usually paid for monthly (some are yearly).

3) Web Building Software (Optional)

Some web hosts provide website building tools so you do not need any additional software.  It's important you find out about this before you sign up with any host.

CoffeeCup & Dreamweaver are popular web editing software programs that people use to create and maintain their sites.

I used Dreamweaver to create this site.

If you don't use any software, then you will need to learn how to code HTML from scratch.  All you do is open a text editor (Notepad or BBEdit for example) and then write the HTML that will create your page. It's pretty easy to learn. 

Then you save the file as filename.html and save it to the Internet through your web host.

If you're not interested in learning HTML, I'd strongly recommend downloading some of my free HTML templates and buying a software program like CoffeeCup to edit and continue building your site.

Nvu and Komposer are two free editors you can download. As you might expect, they do have some limitations (free is not always best) but they can get the job done.

Other Website Features

Want a gaming site?  Looking to create a message forum or chat room for your visitors to communicate?  Maybe you want an online guestbook where people can leave you messages on your site.

This is where it gets a little tricky but don't let it discourage you.  As the Internet matures, it's getting easier and easier to setup these kinds of things on a website.

Any kind of user interactive feature on a website requires some kind of script. A script is nothing but a file that contains a bunch of code that tells the browser how to behave.

Depending on what you want to create for your site, you'll need to go to your favorite search site (Google, for example) and search for the appropriate script (game script, message board script, etc.)  Some are free, some are not-so-free.

Say you want a message board/forum, you can go to http://www.phpbb.com and get a free message board script.  The trick is you have to install it yourself. 

They do provide instructions and it really isn't that difficult but you'll need to get setup with your web host first. 

Most web hosts will help you if you need some guidance and some even provide scripts to their customers for free.  Powweb and Website Palace both do.

Important!  Before you select a web host, make sure they support the kind of script and functionality you want to use.

Making Money from Your Website

More and more people are coming to the web to either make a living or earn a part-time living from a website or blog.

It's certainly possible to make a full-time living online (like me), so if that's the route you're looking for, you've come to the right place.

Outsource The Programming

If you can't seem to find a script or you don't want to learn how to install them you can go to RentaCoder.com and have a programmer do the work for you.  I love this site.

All you do is sign up for an account and post a job.  In a matter of minutes, programmers will begin bidding on your job with a price and you take the bid you want.

It's very safe because you pay the programmers by using PayPal.com and you don't release the money to them until you are satisfied with their work.  You can also check a coder's feedback/history before you select them.  I use them all the time!

You can even have them design your site if you wish.  Just purchase your domain and web hosting and then have one of the coders create a template for you.  They'll even install it for you.

That's website creation in a nutshell.  Now I will suggest you go to my website creation options page to further understand the importance of choosing the right kind of web host before you begin.