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What you'll need

Ideally you need the following......

  • A Domain name. You'll need some way of getting to your server/s! This can be your own full domain name like www.yourdomain.com or a sub-domain like yourname.theirdomain.net 
  • A Web/Mail Server. There are a number of web/mail servers available for all platforms which are available as a package, shareware and some are even freeware. 
  • A PC capable of running the above. Most PC's these days are very capable of running most web and/or mail servers. Even that old 486DX that you thought was a boat anchor can be useful (within reason)!
  • A Firewall. Ideally a hardware firewall/router would be great but if you prefer software that will do as well. 
  • Patches. Make sure what ever you run is up to date and have all the latest patches installed.
  • Backups. I learnt the hard way!
  • A Smurf Bat. Patience is a virtue so they say, but if you're like me this item is a must for taking out those frustrations....plus its safer on the equipment (might not be for the smurfs....).

General Checklist

The following is a checklist guide to setting up your presence on the Net.

  • Determine what it is you are going to do on the net, do you want a personal or business website? Do you wish to have your own email domain? If so, will you run your own mail server? Will the server/s be online all the time?
  • Domain name. Do you want your own full domain which will require registration fees or would you settle for a sub domain (usually for free)?
  • Dynamic DNS Service. This is required for translating your domain (either sub or full) to your IP Address (your PC/host). It allows for IP's that may change for whatever reason.
  • Firewall/Router. Depending on your setup and whether you prefer hardware or software firewall. If you intend to run everything on one PC then software firewall may suffice. If you intend running a LAN then a hardware router maybe an option. Regardless, a firewall is a must.
  • Web Server application. Speaks for itself, although having just email is an option!
  • Mail Server application. If you want to host your own mail. You may have your mail hosted elsewhere and point it to your existing mailbox. Some packages also provide webmail to allow you to access your mail from anywhere.
  • Backup media. Especially if you run a business! The reason why most businesses in the World Trade Centre went broke wasn't because of building collapse but they had NO BACKUPS! That is offsite backups. When you do backups make sure you don't leave it with the PC, lock it up somewhere else, off-site. If you value your business, even think of putting it in a fireproof vault somewhere. If you don't run a business backup anyway!
  • Virus Protection. Are you wearing protection? May sound flippant but it's a damn good analogy. It also speaks for itself.