Is there a way to install and run a local server on my Windows XP Home laptop?

I'm looking to set up a local server on my laptop which is running Windows XP Home Edition. I've noticed that it is impossible to install IIS on the Home Edition, but is there a way around this? Is there other software that I can install开发者_开发百科 to run a server?

the purpose behind this is to mess around and play with ASP to create dynamic websites and my only computer I own has Home Edition.

Also, would running a server on my 5 year old laptop with 2GB of RAM be a good idea?

Windows XP Home Edition does not come with IIS (only Professional). There are workarounds available, but Home Edition was not designed for this. Visual Studio (full and express) come with Cassini, which is a version of IIS you can use for testing/development.

What is your desired result?

You can always install Apache. It should work fine on your HW.

This is what I use: http://www.aprelium.com/abyssws/

The X1 version is totally free and works great. You can then add PHP as needed (or not)

Yes there are ways like http://www.15seconds.com/issue/020118.htm If you are developing using Visual Studio 2005, 8 , 10 you don't need IIS.

The hardware should be fine as you will be the only user accessing the website :)

Download Ultidev Cassini and be happy...Ez to configure and use in both localhost and local network.