how do i get apache http web server to work from a non local host?

Seems you have done the things right.

From where are you trying "http://"myipaddress"/ " ??? From other PC in the internet... in that case routers need time to learn new entries... and update their routing tables... might need about 24 hrs.

In case you are in a home network... it shud work.

Check this one out...

http://www.truedeath.com/guides/server_project.htm...

I feel there might be something missing in the Apache configuration / customisation that's yet to be done. Also check the winXP firewall settings.

You need to setup port forwarding on your router. By default, most of these cheap plug-and-play routers do not forward incoming ports. Apache by default runs on port 80. You need to allow port 80 to forward to the computer running Apache httpd.

Also, it would be wise to set a static IP address on your LAN router for the computer running Apache, otherwise you will have to constantly update port forwarding each time your IP address changes on your LAN.

If you need help, feel free to contact me.

Any gadget meets the requirement, in spite of the indisputable fact that the further powerful the gadget the further powerful provider your computing gadget will provide to its target audience. in case you want to provide extra powerful provider then get a swifter motherboard or overclock your notebook. also get extra RAM. And Linux is a extra powerful OS for a server.