If you design websites you might want to install a web server on your computer in order to test your sites in an environment that matches the real thing as close as possible. This article describes how to install and configure the open-source Apache HTTP (web) server and how to make it work with not one site but as many as you require using a technique called name-based virtual hosting.

Go to the Apache HTTP server download page and select the series you want to use (either 1.3 or 2.0) and download the Win32 binary. In my case I
After you have downloaded the MSI file compare the MD5 signature with the value published on the Apache website. Note: I am working on an explanation on how to do this, for now read the instructions on the Apache HTTP server download page.

Installing and configuring Apache on Windows XP: Virtual Hosts

Installing the Apache web server

If you set up your day-to-day account properly on Windows XP you are working as a limited user. For installation of the Apache HTTP server you need to have Administrator rights. So go to the Windows XP Login screen by pressing the Windows key (between the left Ctrl and left Alt on most keyboards) and the L key together.

When started, the Apache HTTP server installation wizard displays a welcome message. Click on the Next button to continue. Next, the Apache license is shown. Read it carefully and if you accept the license, select the “I accept the terms in the license agreement” option and press the Next button.

Next a “Read This First” document is displayed. Read it carefully before pressing the Next button.

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