i just want to know what apache version i should get(which one is the most recomended)
and if anyone knows of a good article that takes you through the steps of installing and configuring apache(and php if possible)

If you want to use PHP and Apache...I have heard that the newest version of Apache requires a "lot of love" when you want to use it with PHP...

I'm using the 1.3.27 Apache version and have 0 complaints!

Depending on how you plan to install you can simply go to Apache itself:

http://www.apache.org/

but I'm sure that's probably not what you wanted to hear...you wanted something more step by step...Then, try this one:

http://www.sitepoint.com/article/230

Depending on what you plan to do...you might definitley, absolutley, positively want to invite MySQL to your party; If you don't see why now, you will see why very soon after getting your PHP-Apache going...

So then try this one as well:

http://www.sitepoint.com/article/525/1

Good Luck!

Check out something I found earlier:
http://www.apachetoolbox.com

I think it'll help with the setup ALOT. Also, my personal suggestion 1.3.x since 2.x still has a few bugs that need to be worked out before going mainstream (IMHO).

Cool

thank you both very very much