How easy is it to run my own server

any good advice or "how to" links

[TomJones]

I'm getting to the point where I am realizing the limitations of my budget host. AOL systematically blocks their mail servers from time to time and they limit my out-going mail to 1000 a day, among other things. I am parking $500 a year worth of sites on various hosts that could be put towards my own server.

My question(s) are: how hard is it to do (I've installed Apache and PHP on two of my PCs before), what do I need to look for, and what am I realistically in for?

I realize this is a very broad question that would take awhile to answer fully; if anyone knows any good resources I'd appreciate it a lot!

[coopster]

Actually, it's pretty easy. Are you aware that there are hosts that will bill you for a dedicated server, yet install all the software and maintain the server for you, including backups, etc?

[TomJones]

A few years ago when I decided to start my own web empire, I had a few conversations about that. I can't recall the exact figures but, I remeber that it seemed expensive, at the time.

Now that I am few years down the road and actually understand a little more, I should look at that again. I'm in a smaller market, most of the hosting companies around here will rape you just to host your site. My company has a very valuable client database that is stored on the server (probably the biggest reason I want to get off the budget host). If it's to much to do on my own, a dedicated server would be my best option. I'll look into that.

[defanjos]

I got myself a dedicated server a couple of months ago for the same reason, and it is not that difficult.
You get the server with the OS installed and a control panel that is used to add sites, etc.
Also, you can connect remotely from your own computer. That way you have more control, and can do more damage also :)

It costs me me $149/month which is a great price for a dedicated server.

If you want I'll sticky you the company.

[TomJones]

Please do. I need to check that out. I have so many questions about the change. With this MyDoom worm going around, I really wonder what the ramifications will be of running my own mail server, etc.

Have you experienced any major hurdles?

[defanjos]

Sent you a sticky

Have you experienced any major hurdles?

No, not really.
It is a self-managed server, so there is a some work involved in getting everything set-up at first, but it is not that difficult.

[FourDegreez]

There are sites out there dedicated to this topic. You might want to check out DSL/Cable Webserver [dslwebserver.com] or DIYwebserver [diywebserver.com]. Very useful stuff there.