Apache is a popular open-source web server software that is widely used to serve websites and web applications. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of installing Apache web server and configuring your firewall to allow web server requests.
Step 1: Installing Apache Web Server
The first step is to install Apache web server on your system. The process may vary depending on your operating system. Here are the general steps:
For Ubuntu or Debian-based systems:
1. Open a terminal and update the package index:
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sudo apt update |
2. Install Apache:
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sudo apt install apache2 |
3. Start the Apache service:
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sudo systemctl start apache2 |
4. Enable Apache to start on boot:
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sudo systemctl enable apache2 |
For CentOS or Fedora-based systems:
1. Open a terminal and update the package index:
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sudo yum update |
2. Install Apache:
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sudo yum install httpd |
3. Start the Apache service:
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sudo systemctl start httpd |
4. Enable Apache to start on boot:
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sudo systemctl enable httpd |
Step 2: Configuring Firewall to Allow Web Server Requests
By default, most operating systems have a firewall enabled to protect the system from unauthorized access. You need to configure the firewall to allow incoming web server requests.
For Ubuntu or Debian-based systems:
1. Open a terminal and allow incoming HTTP and HTTPS traffic:
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sudo ufw allow 'Apache' |
2. Verify the changes:
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sudo ufw status |
You should see that Apache is added to the list of allowed services.
For CentOS or Fedora-based systems:
1. Open a terminal and allow incoming HTTP and HTTPS traffic:
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sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-service=http |
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sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-service=https |
2. Reload the firewall:
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sudo firewall-cmd --reload |
3. Verify the changes:
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sudo firewall-cmd --list-all |
You should see that HTTP and HTTPS services are added to the list of allowed services.
Step 3: Testing the Web Server
Once you have installed Apache and configured the firewall, you can test if the web server is working correctly.
1. Open a web browser and enter your server’s IP address or hostname in the address bar.
If you see the Apache default page, it means the web server is successfully installed and accessible from the internet.
Conclusion
Installing Apache web server and allowing web server requests to go through the firewall is an essential step in setting up a web server. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should now have a functioning Apache web server accessible from the internet.
Remember to regularly update and secure your web server to protect it from potential threats and vulnerabilities.
