if you just want an apache system for development (not public access) you could install PHP, MySQL and Apache on windows quite easily or if you want something more robust, you could always set up a linux server under VmWare or Virtual PC if you have enough ram

thanks for the good advice

If you do want to go that route then I recommend XAMPP for windows web development using PHP/Apache/MySQL Database - its an easy to install bundle

if you like the virtual pc route then you should follow my tutorial here:

http://www.daniweb.com/forums/thread78131.html

if after all you do want to buy/install a physical linux machine, it shouldnt be that costly. The only requirement really is that it has 256 mb or over of ram (or else MySQL becomes unreliable).

yet more sound advice, you obviously know quite a bit about this stuff and I really appreciate your words, although I feel I am transforming into a geek.

i had never dont any php before, just some HTML and some VB.NET and i managed to pick it up in a few days with a good book

I learned php once, i forgot it all
But linux is the best for servers i think.
In taking advice from JBennet, you are talking to a real linux nerd
no offense Bennet

Ubunte offers a operating system that is free and opensource software, it is linux based. You can request a cd or download and burn it.

I would never use Ubuntu on a server. Use debian instead.

yes it seems that fedora linux,is the best bet as it comes with an apachein the core programmes.