Windows server software suggestions

[davelakecity]

I want to set up a file server for my friends and family to access.

I've tried many installs of different linux os's, but I think I have a hardware problem - I've wasted way too much time so I'm back to windows.

I have a seperate machine connected to my home network which will be dedicated to this server task.
Ideally I'd like people to be able to type my ip into their browser (eventually I'll register a domain name and forward to my "dynamic" ip via a dynamic DNS service). Once they're at my ip they enter a password to bring up file links.

Looking for suggestions on what software to use for this purpose.

 

[riser]

BulletProof for FTP is nice.
You can use Windows IIS for websites/ftp but only up to 4 websites if I recall.

You would need to have select ports (http and ftp) forwarded to the server IP address.

You run a security risk by allowing people through your firewall/router though. You can semi-counter this by running software based firewalls on your other PCs or placing your server in the DMZ on your router (still forward the ports to it as well).

 

[rgeist554]

Another fun thing to do with ports is to forward any unused ports to government sites.

 

[riser]

You should find new ways to define fun.