Hey everyone, can you assist me in resolving a technical issue?
I am currently utilizing the MERN stack for a web application.
I have access to a high-speed computer that remains connected to the internet, and I plan to purchase a domain soon. However, my target user audience is currently limited to a maximum of 20 individuals. What steps should I take to create my server?
1) I understand that I must first upload my project onto the hosting I created.
2) Subsequently, my server will be able to handle requests and run the web application.

The topic of having a server at home has been discussed countless times.
If you do not hold an administrator position, it is advisable to use web hosting as all administrative responsibilities, including server backup, electrical and service part needs, are already provided for.
Alternatively, a VPS can be utilized if web hosting is not preferred or possible. While the provider maintains the hardware, some administrative tasks must still be managed by the user, including server health and backups (which may be arranged with the provider).

It is important to note that there are potential security risks involved with running a server from home or utilizing a VPS. Research should be conducted and appropriate measures taken to safeguard against cyber threats.

If you are struggling to find solutions to your technical queries online, it may be worth considering platforms such as Heroku which can deploy node.js stacks automatically within minutes.

Developers should at least have a basic understanding of how to locally run their site. For those who are unable to do so and possess little experience in the field, I suggest searching online for how to create a virtual machine (using programs such as VirtualBox or WSL 2) and install Linux (for instance, Ubuntu). It is also possible to install Ubuntu via an application on Windows 10 from the Windows Store. From there, the next step is to research how to deploy and configure the MERN stack on Ubuntu.

Finally, the last few steps include researching how to forward ports and configuring DNS records for a domain. While Docker containers can be used instead of virtual machines, it may be more beneficial for beginners to start with the latter. With dedication and consistent experimentation, even those with minimal knowledge can find success after a week of researching and practicing.

It is essential to remain open to learning new techniques, tools, and technologies in the ever-evolving world of web development.

There are two primary methods for creating a server: utilizing a personal computer or renting a VPS from a hosting provider.

If you choose the former, it is essential to ensure that your computer can tolerate high loads and that your internet connection can handle large data streams. You must switch to a static IP to enable permanent IP addresses that allow for secure connections, payment systems, mail services, and input for sites with "white" IP. Static addresses are limited in number and rented for a specific period, making them easier to locate and purchase for a web resource. Your Internet provider can assist with the acquisition of a static IP.

Once you have acquired a static IP, the next step is to install the necessary software. Popular server platforms include Open Server, Denwer, and XAMPP. For example, Open Server includes PHP, Apache, MySQL, and other utilities and starts the server at home to load the website. The following are the steps required to install Open Server:

1. Download the program from the official website
2. Choose between supporting the project for payment to increase download speed or refusing payment
3. Install the downloaded program and access its directory
4. Open the program by selecting the correct OS bit depth and disabling antivirus protection if necessary
5. Access the program's settings by clicking the red flag
6. Change the local IP address to a static IP in the "Server" option and save the changes
7. Start the server by clicking the "Start" option
8. Rename the localhost folder to openserver to fix any configuration incompatibility errors that may occur

Renting a VPS involves selecting a suitable tariff and then uploading the web resource to a pre-existing server for public access on the internet. It is important to research the potential security risks associated with server management before proceeding with either method.

To create your server for your MERN stack web application, here are the steps you can follow:

1) Choose a hosting provider: Research and choose a hosting provider that suits your needs. Make sure it supports the technologies in your stack (MERN), offers high-speed connectivity, and provides enough resources for your expected user base.

2) Set up your hosting account: Sign up for an account with the hosting provider and follow their instructions to set up your hosting environment. This usually involves creating a server instance or virtual machine.

3) Deploy your project: Once your hosting environment is set up, you need to upload your project to the server. You can use various methods such as FTP, SSH, or a control panel provided by your hosting provider.

4) Install dependencies: On the server, make sure you have all the necessary dependencies installed. This includes Node.js, MongoDB, and any other dependencies your project requires. Follow the dоcumentation provided by the hosting provider on how to install these dependencies.

5) Set up your backend: Configure your server to handle requests for your web application. This usually involves setting up a reverse proxy, such as Nginx, to redirect incoming requests to your Node.js server.

6) Configure your domain: If you have purchased a domain, you will need to configure it to point to your server's IP address. This typically involves updating the DNS settings provided by your domain registrar.

7) Test and monitor your server: After everything is set up, make sure to thoroughly test your web application to ensure it is working as expected. Additionally, consider monitoring tools to keep an eye on the server's performance, such as server logs, error tracking, and usage monitoring.

Remember, if you are expecting limited traffic and have a small user base, you may not require a powerful server. However, it's always good to plan for future growth and scalability.