Tutorial #1 - Apache Installation - Running on Windows 9.x/2000/NT [BASIC]

Description
To install Apache webserver on Windows based machine

Related Tutorial
>> Installing Perl on Win9.x/Win 2000/Win NT
>> Apache configuration for running multiple sites

Prerequisites
>> Win NT/2000 - Admin Access
>> All Windows - MSI [Microsoft Installer 2.0]

Steps

Step1:
Download latest stable Apache Win32 installable from Apache.org
[P.S. Newer versions are available in only .MSI format]

Step2:
Run the downloaded Apache installer program from the download directory.

Step3:
If the installer prompts for information, enter these settings-
Network Domain / IP - 127.0.0.1
Server Name - localhost
Webmaster Email - nething@localhost

Step4:
If under WinNT/2000 select "Run as service for All Users"

Step5:
Accept the default destination folder or change if required by entering full path to install directory. For example C:\Apache\

Step6:
Finish installation

Step7:
Start the Apache Server by clicking the "Start Apache" under Start > Programs > Apache HTTP Server

Step8:
A native dos window will popup named "APACHE" showing a message similar to "Apache/1.3.20 (Win32) mod_perl/1.25 running..."

Step9:
TEST installation by pointing your browser to http://localhost/ in Internet. A default Apache Welcome page will appear. [Incase your are not able to view the default page try restarting the machine and start the server]

Step10:
To shutdown the Apache Server do a CTRL+C in the Apache dos window. [P.S. Never close the window directly]