Making own WebHosting Server??

Is there a way to create my own webserver to host websites?
I know many companies offering 'virtual servers', but I am thinking if there is a way that I can buy another PC and convert it into web server???

Appreciate if anyone can give me some tips, or redirect me to information website? I have a small business, but I am fed up with hosting services as very often websites are not accessible, I can work on it because control panel link is slow etc etc.

Thanks folks!

yes, you can. Get a dedicated computer. put a web server on it like apache(http://www.apache.org). You will probably want linux(www.linux.org) because its fast,safe,and secure. Then get a domain name from a registrar set its dns to the public dns server(http://soa.granitecanyon.com/). Then set the records there to point to the ip address of your web server(get this from your ISP, you will have to pay a price for a static IP. You will also need knowledge of BIND). Then wait 24 hours to synchronize.

You should get computer people to do it for you.

You will also want a T1 connection if you expect a lot of hits.

Sure. An inexpensive way is to run a free distribution of LINUX on the old box -- it should come with Apache. The trick is to make it accessible to the Web. You will either need a static IP address (talk to your DSL or cable company) -- this is usually a substantial extra charge. Alternatively, you can use a dynamic Domain Name Service, such as TZO. Finally, you'll need to register a domain name, and get a DNS entry corresponding to your static IP Address (or use the dDNS service to keep your DHCP address updated).

All-in-all, aside from the learning experience, you may find it more convenient to simply use a hosting service, such as 1&1, GoDaddy.com, etc.