Set windows 7 PC as webserver

[naimcohen]

Hi guys

I need to set up a windows 7 pc as a webserver. It is not for a website directly, but more so to host a file so mobile devices can see it from outside the local network.

I have done something similar but I'm sure I am missing some steps out.

So far I have set up a no-ip address as the business has a dynamic ip setup. I have also forwarded port 80 from the router to the pc.

What other steps need to be taken? I have done some googling but there are many ways of doing it, some using third party software and some say windows 7 has this built in.

So, what am I missing out and is there an easier way?

And once its done, what security measures should be done to secure it?

Thanks!

 

[owensdj]

You can install Internet Information Server(IIS) on Windows 7, or you could download and install Apache. Here's a page that tells you how to set up IIS.

http://www.iis.net/learn/install/installing-iis-7/installing-iis-on-windows-vista-and-windows-7

 

[JackMDS]

If you just want to use as File Server configure a safe secure ftp server.

http://wiki.filezilla-project.org/FTPS_using_Explicit_SSL/TLS_howto_(Server)


😎

 

[naimcohen]

I've installed IIS and have got it working on the windows 7 machine but before I deploy it externally I want to make sure it is working on the network first.

The internal ip of the machine is 192.168.1.38 and from that machine if I navigate to 192.168.1.38/test.html I get the site, all ok.

But now from another machine on the network if I put in the same thing I dont get anthing.

I know I'm doing something wrong but its late and I can't figure out what...so any suggestions?

Thanks

 

[Jamsan]

Is the Windows firewall turned on? If so, make sure an exception is opened for port 80 / HTTP.

 

[naimcohen]

Opened up port 80 inbound, TCP and works internally 🙂

Thanks for that! Will test out on the external network tomorrow. Anything else to change or it should just work?

Thanks again!