Where to run a server app?

[Brainer]

Hello. :)

I'd like to write a private file sharing network for buddies from my neighbourhood. :) I figured out how this network should work, but I need a computer (a server), which is booted up 24/7 and where I could launch my server program. Do you know any free servers?

Or a different question? Is there a different way to create this network?

[NecroDOME]

I don't think you can just "find a server that runs your program". What I do is run my own server. You need someone who wants to run your program 24/7.
You can always put a PC in a data center. (you still have to manage it your self, but that what remote desktop is for :P )

[arthurprs]

rent a dedicated host on a datacenter

[Brainer]

I'd like to run my own server, but I don't want my pops pay extra money for my server. :? What is data center anyway?

[noeska]

You can also look for an virtual private server aka vps. You share the server with other usere but you each get your own linux environment. and yes you can run your own applications on that server. For more info see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_private_server But this wil cost you money e.g. $10-$30 a month or so.

OR you van go for an nslu with linux. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NSLU2
But it is harder to create applications for that device as you need free pascal to creat arm linux binaries.

There is no such thing as a free server that allows you to run your own applications.

Maybe you can make a demilitarized zone ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demilitarized_zone_%28computing%29 ) on your modem/router allowing you to run a server on your own pc.

[Brainer]

Thanks, noeska, for your hints! :D I guess I have to pay for a specialized service. ;( Pity, I thought I'd found something for free...

[User137]

Doesn't VPN require at least other party to be able to create server? I mean you should have Static IP from your service provider or? Leading to, if you have static IP already you can run any server app on your computer (within isp rules ofc) :P I had static once but since then 2 last connections have been dynamic, as in for general security they are normally not default but cost little extra, guess 5-10e a month.

[Brainer]

User137, I've got a static IP, but it'd cost me some extra money if I created the server on my own PC. :( I'm unemployed yet, because I'm too young to earn money in my country and I don't wanna charge my pops.