[eluser]Rick Jolly[/eluser]
If you are compiling php, then you aren't approaching this properly. Is there a reason you need your own dedicated server? Shared hosting starts at about $20/year. You'll have access to a control panel (like cpanel) where you can create a database and a database user with a few clicks. Find a tutorial for your control panel if you have questions. If you'd like to develop locally, then download a pre-packaged server/database like MAMP.
