Question : Web Server

So I've decided to work on a little project at home. I'm wanting to set up a web server at home and host at least 2 web sites. What would be my first steps to get this party started? My system right now is running on Win XP.

Answer : Web Server

Are you planning on using that PC just for hosting? Because if so I would recommend looking at this article. It goes into detail how to setup a web server.
http://net.tutsplus.com/tutorials/php/how-to-setup-a-dedicated-web-server-for-free/
Otherwise I would look at investing in getting a separate PC to do the hosting. Ubuntu is a free OS. Which Microsoft Server is not free. :)