Need help starting a web server please

I want to set up a web server to learn and to host my own sites and my friends' sites from my home. I was wondering if anybody could point me in the right direction and help me get started. The main services I want to offer are http, ftp, dns, and mail. I have a few basic questions:

How do I choose an operating system? I am leaning towards Red Hat.

What type of system will I need to build? I am going to buy new parts and I have the money so I would like to put together a competitive machine.

What networking decisions will I have to make. Right now I have a dynamic IP from my DSL provider. I have a DSL modem and a router (not using the router right now). I have other PC's that I would like to be able to use on this gateway as well. Will I have to have an IP for each machine?

Thank you in advance for any help.

-jnoody

 

 

 

 

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