Host web site at home with dynamic ip

[jcarson]

1. I am on DSL.
2. I have a server setup at home ready to go.
3. I have a domain name currently hosted at 1and1.com

Now, how do I set this server up to be on the web. I am an MCSE and know the basics, but I am looking for a free solution. (FREE is the key word.)

Zoneedit? Dynip.com? Any suggestions? I would REALLY appreciate an opinion as there are MANY options right now.


Requirements.. 1 domain. Thats it.

 

[JackMDS]

May be this can Help: How to connect to Computer/Server through the Internet?

:sun:

 

[jcarson]

Thanks but this is the 50,000 ft view of my issue. I know and fully understand all of this info. I am looking for specific reccomendations for free services etc.. PRos and cons.

Thanks for the info though.

 

[JackMDS]

Yeah it is a common practice a need of one liner solution.

So I see three options.

1. To guess by trial and error the exact level of the question and the need.
2. To just state that what ever I use (naturally) Rules.
3. To try to deal with the subject in General.

The page given above includes a link to another page that tabulates most of the options.

http://www.directupdate.net/services.html

I use myip.us and NO-IP.com

Both Rulez! Why? Because I choose them, and I am Smart.:shocked::roll:

:sun:

 

[haveblue]

Set the appropriate port forwarding on your router, and don't restart/disconnect so your ip doesn't change.. go to admin.1and1.com, and go to the dns settings for your domain, point the A record at your IP, but keep their name servers and mail servers, it's easier.. unless you already have dns and mail servers set up.. If you have a web server installed, start it up, and you're set.. if not download XAMPP from apachefriends.org for a basic setup, and then you'll be set.. If your IP changes without disconnecting or restarting or whatever, or you don't have a router.. get one.. it might fix your dynamic ip by not releasing it as long as it's on.. If that doesn't solve your problem, you can get programs that will automatically sync your current IP to a domain, but I doubt you'd be able to sync it to a REAL domain, it probably needs to go to a yourname.theircompany.com.. I can't remember the name of the company that offers it off the top of my head, just google around.. If you can't get a static or at least infrequently changing IP, you'll have tough luck pointing a dns to it.. you'll need to update your dns settings on your domain every time it changes..

Hope this made any sense.. Good luck

 

[SleepWalkerX]

Do you need instructions for setting up a server to be accessed over the web or just suggestions on free dns resolutions?

 

[jcarson]

Mainly for free DNS solutions.. I have a mail / webserver setup on my server box.

My whole reasoning is to limit my hosting costs to ($0). I would like to do my own domain hosting or via a free company and am just not that knowledgable on that whole issue.

 

[haveblue]

Well, I have a domain at 1and1.com.. and I simply set the DNS A record to point to my IP here at home, and it works fine.. but, you'll need to update that dns record every time your IP changes. However, there are companies that offer subdomains, with software to update the record to point to your current IP. Problem is, I doubt that you could use this with your 1and1 domain. The other companies might offer to let you use their DNS servers, in which case it would be no problem, just set your domain to use their name servers.. But, I think you might have trouble finding a company that would let you do that.. not sure though..

 

[SleepWalkerX]

I just signed up an account on dyndns.org. The name is kinda long. However, they do provide tools for automatically updating your dynamic ip address to your dns name every time it changes. I find that useful, although my router (WRT54G) already has one built in.

 

[jcarson]

I guess what I am getting at is that I dont want 1and1.com at all. I want to host the domain (or find a free company to direct that name to ME). Thus eliminating all hosting fees. Is this possible?

 

[TXJustin]

Originally posted by: jcarson
I guess what I am getting at is that I dont want 1and1.com at all. I want to host the domain (or find a free company to direct that name to ME). Thus eliminating all hosting fees. Is this possible?

I've never heard of registering a domain for free, so you're pretty much out 10 bucks a year.

Other than that, look at the link Jack provided and see what fits your needs.

 

[haveblue]

Yes, by setting up a web server at your home, like I said. Go to admin.1and1.com and log in, check off your domain, and go to DNS settings.. go down to the A record, and point it to your home IP address. It'll probably take a little while for 1and1 to update their records, but soon the domain should point to the IP you set it to. Turn on your server, and put up your website, and that should be it..

 

[jcarson]

Originally posted by: haveblue
Yes, by setting up a web server at your home, like I said. Go to admin.1and1.com and log in, check off your domain, and go to DNS settings.. go down to the A record, and point it to your home IP address. It'll probably take a little while for 1and1 to update their records, but soon the domain should point to the IP you set it to. Turn on your server, and put up your website, and that should be it..

Now.. If I do this, isnt my domin still at 1and1? That is where I would manage the settings. I dont mind paying for the domain name, but that would still have them as a host / domain parker right? If this is not the case, then how do I make later changes to the domain ip?

BIG THANKS to everyone so far!

 

[haveblue]

If you change the DNS to your server, they would no longer be hosting the site, only the name. If you payed for a hosting package from them, then you'd have to cancel that, or you'd still be paying for it, even if you weren't using the space.. however, if you just bought the domain name, there should be no hosting fee, just point it to your server and you're good to go.. You'll still be able to get into your domain settings and everything at 1and1 to point the name at another IP should it change later on..

 

[RossMAN]

Sorry for bumping an old thread but wouldn't it be wise to register a domain with NameCheap.com which offers:

• FREE WhoisGuard protection for the first year.
• Free URL Forwarding
  Direct & Cloaked With No Ads
• Free Email Forwarding (No Ads)
  you@yourdomain.com -> ISP
• Free Parking Page Included
  Your Domain will not go unresolved
• Free Transfer of Ownership
• Free Dynamic DNS With Client
• Free Security Features
  Registrar Lock etc.,.
• Full Control of Your Domain
• Advanced Control Panel
  One of the best in the industry
• Custom DNS Settings
  CNAME, A, MX, MXE Supported
• Custom Nameserver Registration
• Friendly Customer Support
• Optional Whois Protection
  Using WhoisGuard Product

I have extra credit of $8.88 at NameCheap.com which I'd be more than happy to donate to you?

 

[DivideBYZero]

Try this.