I have an unused laptop at home because the display is broken. Therefore I want to use the PC as a server, which runs something like a website. Is that possible? Is there maybe something like a manual? Unfortunately I didn't find anything on Google.
Sure it works, should you just be able to connect a screen in some other way so that you can set everything up. Just search for "Use Windows PC as a server" or something, you will definitely find something. Maybe you can also make Linux on it and operate the server with it, should there be many tutorials for.
What kind of server do you want to run on it?
Should there only be one website on it or do you want to save data on it over the network? Or maybe a Minecraft server?
Is easily possible for Windows you can use XAMP if the server should only be accessible in the internal network. With Linux you just need to install and set up the Apache or Nginx web server.
You need a display to set up the server and you shouldn't expect a laptop to last too long in this mode because the hardware is not designed for 24/7 operation.
Even if the laptop is not designed for it, it will work great!
The cheapest would be Ubuntu Server with Keyhelp for the websites.
Ubuntu - https://ubuntu.com/tutorials/tutorial-install-ubuntu-server#1-overview
Keyhelp- https://www.keyhelp.de/
Ubuntu because it is the best documented Linux distribution. And if you don't work with Linux often, you'll be happy.
Keyhelp as it is currently the best website management program in my opinion. You don't have to worry about Apache or Mysql, it installs automatically.
The hardware itself can be ordered in continuous operation. Here it is important to cool the fan from time to time, or screw it on and mount another cooler. Then maybe replace the power supply, but otherwise it works.
I have a Brix with i3 8xxxU now as a home server and have been in continuous operation for 14 months. Is laptop hardware and holds great.
Think about port activation on your router.
TIP: If you only want to run a website on it, just rent a web space or small V-server. With an i5 you can expect 7-8 euro per month in electricity costs. For the price, you get a good V-Server that has a fixed IP, good ping and better bandwidth.
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Saving data would be great, I think
You could install XigmaNas on the laptop.
https://www.xigmanas.com/
Or OpenMediaVault
https://www.openmediavault.org/
