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!