Question : Setting up a Web Server on my PC

I am trying to set up a web server on my home PC. I am using wamp http://www.wampserver.com/en/ for the server software. My OS is Windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit and/or Windows XP Pro 32-bit. The server software works fine, in that I can run my website by browsing to localhost and my local IP (192.168.1.101). What I dont know how to do is make it so the domain that I own can be used so my website can be viewed by going to the URL, or even using an IP. When I type my global IP in, I just get a "cannot find server error". Is there a way for me to set this up without having to pay for anything?

Answer : Setting up a Web Server on my PC

First off, this is not a very good way to host a website, due to the limitations of a home broadband connection, as well as some security concerns.

That aside, there are a few steps to follow:

1. Your domain name must be pointed at your public ip address (the one on your router, usually provided by your isp*)
2. The router must be set to forward http (and perhaps https) traffic to your web server (look in the manual for your router for this, it is usually quite easy).

* The problem with this part is that you probably have a dynamic ip address. While you can ask your isp for a static one (that doesn't change), they will most likely charge you for it. As an alternative you can look at ddns (http://www.dyndns.com/) which tracks your ip for you and keeps the name pointed at it.

Have fun!