how do i make a server?

Question

how do i make a server so like my freinds can log on their computers and see all our projects and Microsft Access?

Answer 1

Well, you don't actually "make" a server, but rather install a server OS such a Windows Server 2003. Perhaps you are more interested in IIS-Internet Information Services, which is a software feature included with Windows XP Professional. I have not used it myself, but did install it a bit ago to take a look at it.

Now, this is used to create websites for your own internal intranet, or to publish your own webiste on the internet. To install it you would go into Control Panel-Add/Remove Programs, then on the left click Add/Remove Windows Componants. When the dialog box comes up scroll down the list untill you come to "IIS-Internet Information Services", then place a check mark in the box and then click Next and follow the onscreen instructions for installing the componants. You will need a set of instructions, either from websites, or purchasing a book like one from Microsoft Press, in order to learn how to use this properly.

Good luck in your endevours and a great evening!

Answer 2

This depends on how you (and they) connect to the internet and whether you are on the same network or not. Assuming you are not, and if you all connect through an ISP, in order to truly create a server where your friends can access your system, you would need to get a static IP address from your ISP (for potentially a higher fee) and set up a web site on your computer or set up an ftp server or other method for file transfer and give them all access. Or you could do something as simple as using a service to allow users to connect to your system, like gotomyPC.com - this may give them the most flexible option, but would allow them full control of your PC. In short, it depends on many factors, like how are you connected, what is your purpose, what level of control you want to provide, and what level of security you require.