Point domain name to home server

[drooh]

I am using a free service to monitor my ip address. The service gives me a free domain name. The domain name is ok but I would like to use one that I purchase from a registrar.

How to I configure a domain name I purchase to point to my home server?

Usually when I purchase a domain name and set it up to point to my hosting I will simply change the DNS Nameservers of the domain name.

Is it this simple? Is there some 3rd party solution for this?

How do I point a domain name to my home server running apache/php/mysql.

[GaryK]

Is it this simple?

Yes. If you want a 3rd party solution you can try something like ZoneEdit or a dozen other sites that function as a DNS Server for you. This is what I do for several domain names that point to my home office-based development server. I use the same company for my production websites.

[drooh]

Ok, so for instance with zoneedit how do you update the ip address it has for you? For instance my ip is dynamic and may change. Is there a client software that will monitor my ip address and change it online for me automatically?

[drooh]

i see it was hard to find, keyword "dynamic dns", look in the help faqs

[GaryK]

It's been ages since I had a dynamic IP Addy, but there is a huge Help and FAQ section on ZE for using a dynamic IP Addy. It does require a stand-alone client that contacts ZE and updates your zone when your IP Addy changes. It's not the best way to go, but it does work. If you need any help with ZE let me know. I can't offer any help with the stand-alone clients, but I'm sure a fellow WebmasterWorld member will happen along and offer some help if you need it.