How do you register a domain name yourself?

Yes, it is possible to host your own domain name. If you have a static IP address given to you from your ISP, you can set your domain names DNS record to point to that IP address.

It becomes tricky when you have a dynamically generated IP with your ISP. In this case, it will help you to have a service out there that "listens" for the change in your IP address and changes it for you on your DNS record. There are several services out there. Just do a google search with the phrase, "dynamic IP address service" and you will find many free services.

Once you have that set up, then you'll need to set up a web server program on your computer like IIS or Apache (open-source). There are other free open source web server programs out there as well, also with set up guides.

One more thing. You will need to set up a domain name/IP redirect on your DSL/Cable modem that points to your computer. You can ask for your ISP to help you set that up, but most wont help you do that. In that case, there are many guides on how to do that. Yep, google again to find them for your particular DSL/Cable modem.

Enjoy.

cyberperk at CyberPerks.Net