Utility of local server for testing?

[gstick]

I have successfully launched a couple of personal websites. The largest totals about 40 pages. I used FrontPage, but coded manually with html 4.01 & css. I went directly from my main computer C drive to the host server using Ipswich FTP Pro.

I have been developing a business website that will exceed 100 pages and hopefully will continue to grow. I am close to going on line. Is it necessary or advisable for me to take the time and expense to set up a local server? What disadvantages do I risk if I proceed as I have in the past?

[brotherhood of LAN]

It appears that you have a totally static website, assuming you never used the "Frontpage extensions" facility in FP.

If that's the case then there isn't much need to set up a server as it'd be the same as clicking on index.htm within a folder on your desktop and browsing from there.

time and expense

It will cost very little if anything. If you think you'll be 'enhancing' any of your sites with things like server side scripting, databases or lots of javascript then it's probably the way forward for you.

Learning more about the server side environment may help you achieve your site goals quicker too.

However, if your sites work as intended, it's really up to you whether the extra time setting up a server and learning about it is warranted.

[gstick]

Thanks for the concise, to the point response. Your reasoning makes sense to me. Actually I hope to make a deal with a real webmaster provided the basic material proves to be of interest to enough people.

[gstick]

Since "Brotherhood's" last reply I've continued coding my more than 100 pages (now in Word format). The site will be loaded with links across the pages along with image maps. I have successfully set up a PHP contact-me arrangement in another website. I'm still not sure about a need to employ other "dynamic" features.

Thinking that the "not sure" is because I'm not familiar with the capability I've begun to study javascript as well as getting deeper into PHP & SQL.

Meanwhile the time consumption penalty of testing without a local server nags at me.

I've found a web master who provides a description of setting up a server (with Apache) on my existing PC. It sounds relatively straight forward and inexpensive.

What disadvantages might this approach entail. Could it be a worthwhile step toward a separate local server if that becomes necessary?

[mack]

Having a testing server can be a great advantage if you are developing sites that will use scripting or advanced code.

In short you can test things localy without having to upload them for testing purposes on your web server.

My test server is an old pc, simply formated the HD and installed Linux. It can be a bit of a learning curv, but IMO very worth it.

Mack.

[gstick]

Thanks Mack for the comments.

Actually since Brotherhood's message I have decided to add a PC and establish a two computer network. I have done that for several reasons including the age of the old machine.

But I also wanted to take a step closer to a local server. However, I understand that I can use Apache server software with my windows operating system. If true this is what I would be inclined to do.

Do you know anything about this?