Server - running your own dedicated server I do not have a clue were to start with servers but its on my list of thing to do and learn in 2005 What I want to do is learn how to setup and manage a server myself and all that goes with running your own dedicated server What would be your advice on were to start i.e good books , courses or sites Kind of servers for dummys thing - also is it worth it when the deals with host companies are so cheap and hassel free Thank you for your time
My suggestion would be to set up Linux on your PC, preferably Fedora or RedHat, as most servers use these. Then get familiar with the command prompt and stuff. Although it isn't essential, it will be very, very helpful to be able to do this.
I don't know what would be a good source for something like this. My recommendation is that if you really want to learn, set up a server at home and configure it. Configure IIS. Configure users, Set up FTP. By doing, you will learn. You might also check out the local continuing education options to see what they have to offer.
I know the feeling. I have an old (Still fairly decent - P4) machine just sitting there doing f*uck (Haha) all. I'd really love to get it running linux et all quite soon. Something that looks good for testing environments (Not too sure how it would cope actually serving sites - it might be fine), is this... Looks interesting... There's a linux version available too.
I would recommend the linux route I use SuSE 9.2 Pro (total cost of software all about $89.00 US) and have 3 machines set up with Apache / php / mysql / phpMyAdmin / and much more. This message is coming from 1 of them. Set-up is quite easy and very stable. And a great deal of support can be had for free at http://forums.suselinuxsupport.de/
First, pick an OS (Linux will cost you less), then look for a colocation company (e.g. http://www.askwebhosting.com/). Once you choose one, they will send you the info about their environment (IP address(es), default gateway, DNS, etc). Some colocation companies will even configure the machine for you. Make sure you get the bandwidth you need (check your current logs for an estimate) and how much you will pay for anything over the top. As to what to learn, you need to know networking and how to set up a firewall *really* well - cutting yourself off because you misconfigured your firewall makes you feel kinda stupid and will cost you to fix. Learn the command line - it's the way to go with Linux. With many OS'es you can also use UI software, such as VNC or Terminal Services. These things usually consume only 3-5 KB/s when connected, which is quite reasonable for what they do. J.D.
If you are really serious about running your own server then you might want to look into taking a short class at a community college or something. It could give you a nice basis to work from.
Server - running your own dedicated server Thanks for the posts Yes I think it will be a course is needed as I want to know how to do this plus how and why its works (mmm now have to find the right course ) Quiet looking forward to learning this