Is it possible to change a regular computer into a website hoster. I wont to create one with a mysql database so I can install a forum. Can some one help me??? I have no Idea how to do this. It is just going to be for me and a couple of friends. And we don't want domains just sub domains for our websites.

I am wondering the same exact thing. Does anyone have an answer? Also, how much do you think it would cost (if anything) to do this?

It is possible to turn your computer into a host. You'll need to go to www.php.net and download php install it (which is free) and when you install it near the end of the installation it will ask you what kind of server you want to set-up. Generally a lot of hosting services use Apache, you may want to look up the other selections allowed. It shouldn't cost you anything, other then time, patience, and maybe a computer if you get to frustrated.

I myself don't know too much more on the subject other then that. I also would think it could be hazardous to your computer, being that it is directly connected to the net 24-7 running it's server, and database. As I said I would think, I'm not sure.

But another alternative would be to get a good free-host which supports MySQL, as well as PHP, and just simply get a shortened url. I myself use to use http://www.freedomain.co.nr/ which would allow you to get turn "www.YourFreeServer.com/YourSiteName" into "www.YourSiteName.co.nr". There are other shorturls providers on the web you just have to find them.

Another alternative to for that site for your friends without using your own server, and a free server, some people (generally) bloggers who purchase a domain, as well as a host, have so much space with their package they don't know what to do with it all, literally. Sometimes they will have a sub hosting service, this way they help out someone else in need, and also get some use out of what they are paying for. If you want this option let me know and I'll send you some links i know of. Generally they will want you us a FTP you can buy an ftp program, but there are some free ones with the GPL license. For instance like filezilla.

Hope it all helped. if you have any questions personal message me.
Later,

Ben

Could use wamp and buy cPanel add it to a domain then sorted well it think thats how i did it ... meansyou have to keep it on constanly

it is definately possible. but whether or not it's feasible thats another question.
End of the day it's usually cheaper for you to pay for a hosted account than it is to set up a webserver on your own computer.

The problems that come with setting up your own webserver on your computer is that:
A- You need a good U/L and D/l connection.
B- You need your computer on 24/7
C- You need to make sure it's all secure. Otherwise people can gain access to your pc
and so on.

I have apache/php/mysql all set up on my laptop. But only for testing reasons. I only have them active when i need to try something out and am using my laptop. Otherwise i use hosted accounts.

All you need:
Apache
MySQL Database
PHP 5.2.5
PHPMyAdmin

Or in other words, http://www.appservnetwork.com/