Loading IIS for the first time, how do I keep it secure? 1

[jacl35]

Hello;

I am trying to learn MySQL and PHP, so I thought it best to use my own computer to learn, rather than my web site server.

I need to load IIS , but I am scared that I will get a virus or worm since I do not know how to make it secure on my own personal computer.

I only want the IIS running to practice coding in Perl,PHP, and MYSQL as well as testing new Web Sites. I would like to be comfortable with Database structuring and PHP before doing anything on my web sites server.( and possibly make someone pissed) LOL

Someone told me that since I am running 2000 pro
I must load service pack 3 plus a program from MS site called
Lock Down. Other than this quick suggestion from a friend of a friend...I know squat! LOL I can build nice looking web pages
and make them search engine ready ,but other than that I am a baby to Servers and coding.

Can Someone head me in the rigt direction before I set up IIS and make my home computer a target for the Hackers of the world to destroy?

Thanks Jack
Florida

 

[Evilbart]

Hi,

install IIS on your 'pro' box through add/remove software

then load the latest servicepack (3) from microsoft
apply securityfixes suggested by windowsupdate service

download iislockdown

http://www.microsoft.com/windows2000/downloads/recommended/iislockdown/default.asp

install and run (pretty straightforward)

keep an eye on your iislogfiles if your computer is on the internet.
and have your virusscanner uptodate (as you should always ;-) )

if you are scared running iis you might want to load apache. (

http://www.apache.org)

or a prebuild setup apache+mysql+php like easyphp (

http://www.easyphp.org/)

have fun building & playing around ;-)

//Bart

 

[browolf]

if you can get hold of norton ghost. you could make a backup image of your c:drive
before you install IIS, just incase anything ever does happen.

===============
Security Forums

http://www.security-forums.com

 

[jacl35]

Hello;

Thanks for the information. Bart and Browolf: )

I did go to easyphp.com,and after downloading I realised that it was all in French. Can I get the download in all English, as well as any information about the program?

I would like to study it ,but like I said it is all in French so once again I am lost.

I am grateful for the suggestion however. This sounds like this is more secure and much easier for me to get started with.
If I can get everything in English that would be perfect LOL

Thanks for your time

 

[Evilbart]

hehe
i should go with the easyphp thing, i installed it once for some quick testing and it was english

but you can always try:

http://sourceforge.net/projects/phptriad/

just found it through google...

but now you're in the wrong forum ;-)
you might wanna try the apache group:apache forum and post there

have fun

//Bart

 

[Evilbart]

just came across this link, all installers with the same purpose: apache+mysql+php

http://www.phpclub.net/index.phtml?m=161

some are outdated but you might wanna give em a try

//Bart

 

[jacl35]

Thanks Bart;

I was trying to run down a site myself, but you hit it before me. I am grateful once again.

Best Jack