This might be an extremely noob question, but here goes.

I have an old Debian Etch server running Apache 2.2.3 which I wish to update to 2.2.29. This means compiling and installing myself which I don't mind doing at all. In fact, compiling and installing Apache is a fairly painless procedure so that's not really the problem.

However, since the current Apache version was installed through the official Debian Etch packages, I have no idea how I can compile the new version with the same configuration options as the old version (since I have no clue how to find out which configuration options the old one used). I likewise have no idea how I can get Apache to install all its files in the same locations as the old version. And have it use the old configuration files. Or maybe I shouldn't install the new version over the old version? I really have no idea.

Anyone any tips?

i would normally say
install Debian 7.8

and the apache stack deb's
but
if your heart is intent on building everything from source on a OLD OS

consider the building and installing as a 400 level CS class
there is only a pass/fail so you need a 4.0 on the final exam ( installing a working server )
start with the apache docs for the old 2.2

http://httpd.apache.org/docs/2.2/

the matching old version of PHP
http://php.net/

the old mysql -- now owned by Oracle ( mysql no longer owns mysql )
marieaDB is a NEW rewrite for mysql ( by the mysql developewrs )
http://www.mysql.com/

PhpMyAdmin -- also for the old version
http://www.phpmyadmin.net/home_page/index.php


PS
personally i RECOMMEND every one using apache does a source install a few times
then use the deb's and rpm's to save some time