How To Host A Web Server - 6 Crucial Elements You Need To Know (Part 2)
Welcome to Part 2 of How To Host A Web Server. In Part 1 we covered the importance of having the expertise needed for running a server and also the various options you have for connecting a web server. Next, you'll gain some insight to routers and the various network types.
Router
A router will be very important to achieve a connection among a Local Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN). They can allow the connection of networks that have different Token Rings. This gives routers the ability choose the correct path for the token packet to optimize system performance.
If you want to have multiple computers sharing the same DSL or cable line, there are a couple of routers you may want to consider having for hosting a webserver.
- Software Router
- Hardware Router
Both types of routers are referred to as network address translators (NAT's). This simply means they can allow multiple cpu's to share the same internet connection.
The software router works by taking the IP address assigned to you via your internet service provider and lets all other computers share that same number within the local area network. The computer running this router will have two network cards.
One connects to the cable/DSL line while the other is connecting to your local area network. It's important for this computer to be on so others within the network can connect to the internet.
Hardware routers work better than software routers because they allow you to have a single connection to the web. They also provide you with much needed firewall protection.
This is good because DSL and cable connections are in the "always on" mode and can expose you to hackers that are always looking for ways to get into your computer.
A hardware router also puts more distance between your server and the internet. Instead of your server acting as the firewall, it will be placed behind the firewall. Unlike software routers, your server would be running a firewall program that's accessible via the internet.
Another great thing concerning hardware routers is that your cpu doesn't have to be on at all times. The router will stay on 24/7 and still allow other computers to connect even though the host computer is turned off.
Whatever router you decide on using for your webserver, be sure you have the ability to use the router on the network.
Network
Setting up a network for your webserver is a simple task. Each computer will be required to have its own network card (NIC). You'll soon be off to the races once you've calibrated the network settings.
It's recommended that you utilize a Category 5 cable (CAT 5) with RJ45 jacks. The reason is that 90% of the network cards will have a jack that is compatible with the connection.
The great thing is that this particular cable will enable you to achieve faster speeds then with a normal coax cable connection. Another benefit with the Category 5 is each computer can be connected to a central hub and if one cpu crashes the others will stay online.
You'll also need to make a decision between which network cables to use. The options are usually between a straight network and a crossover network cable. Most of the time you'll be using the straight network cable for all your server needs.
The crossover is best suited for computers that will not be linked together using a hub. You need a straight network cable when using a hub. The reason is a hub automatically crosses the wires over internally. In essence, a crossover cable is not needed.
This concludes the second series. Part 3 of How To Host A Web Server will cover information pertaining to firewall protection and some recommended server hardware and software. Stay tuned for more information.
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