Report on Web Server Installation and
Configuration on CentOS
1. Introduction
This report details the installation and configuration of an Apache web server on CentOS,
including firewall settings and the setup of IP-based and port-based websites. The document also
includes troubleshooting tips and security best practices for maintaining a robust web hosting
environment.
2. Web Server Installation
2.1 Update System and Install Apache
Run the following commands to update the system and install Apache:
sudo yum update -y
sudo yum install httpd -y
2.2 Enable and Start Apache
Enable Apache to start on boot and launch the service:
sudo systemctl enable httpd
sudo systemctl start httpd
2.3 Verify Apache Installation
To confirm Apache is running, use:
sudo systemctl status httpd
To test, open a browser and enter the server's IP address:
http://your-server-ip
If Apache is correctly installed, the default CentOS test page should appear.
3. Configure Firewall for Web Server
To allow HTTP and HTTPS traffic through the firewall, execute:
sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-service=http
sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-service=https
sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-port=2000/tcp
sudo firewall-cmd --reload
To verify the firewall rules:
sudo firewall-cmd --list-all
4. IP-Based Website Configuration
4.1 Configure Virtual Hosts
Edit the Apache configuration file:
sudo nano /etc/httpd/conf/httpd.conf
Add the following Virtual Host entry for an IP-based website:
<VirtualHost 192.168.94.131:80>
DocumentRoot "/var/www/html/ip_based"
ServerName 192.168.94.131
<Directory "/var/www/html/ip_based">
AllowOverride All
Require all granted
</Directory>
ErrorLog "/var/log/httpd/ip_based_error.log"
CustomLog "/var/log/httpd/ip_based_access.log" combined
</VirtualHost>
Create the document root directory and an index page:
sudo mkdir /var/www/html/index.html
sudo vi /var/www/html/index.html
and write following paragraph
Hamna Amir, a dedicated student with the roll number 21-cp-10, has always strived for excellence in
her academic journey. Known for her sharp problem-solving skills and creative approach, she has
consistently demonstrated a passion for learning and growing. Whether tackling complex assignments
or engaging in group discussions, Hamna is committed to achieving her goals and making a positive
impact in her field of study.
5. Port-Based Website Configuration
5.1 Create a New Virtual Host for Port-Based Access
Edit the Apache configuration file:
sudo nano /etc/httpd/conf/httpd.conf
Add the following Virtual Host entry:
<VirtualHost 192.168.94.131:2000>
DocumentRoot "/var/www/html/port_based"
<Directory "/var/www/html/port_based">
AllowOverride All
Require all granted
</Directory>
ErrorLog "/var/log/httpd/port_based_error.log"
CustomLog "/var/log/httpd/port_based_access.log" combined
</VirtualHost>
Create the document root and index page:
sudo mkdir -p /var/www/html/site1
sudo vi /var/www/html/site1/index.html
In index.html write this content
Set silinux =disabled and save it by :wq so that port based web hosting is enabled
Restart Apache:
sudo systemctl restart httpd
