Tell me more ×
Server Fault is a question and answer site for professional system and network administrators. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 0 down vote favorite

I'm a complete linux/networking beginner. What equipment/software will be needed to do this? Basically I want to set up a server computer and be able to connect to it locally with my desktop, and learn the ropes of setting up a webserver without the potential unwanted outside access. Basically I want to learn how to manage these cheaper unmanaged VPS packages I see offered from webhosting companies, but locally first.

The equipment I have currently: My computer, an extra server computer, popular linux distros, linux books, linksys 4 port router, netgear 4 port hub, cat5 cables, and a patch cord. Also have an old Westell 327W wireless router, but I don't think it functions without a bellsouth/at&t DSL connection.

Would like to simulate VPS or real-world servers as much as possible for best possible learning experience. Thanks!

share|improve this question
Do you actually need to buid physical infrastructure? If not, just install the virtualization environment of your choice and start there. – jscott Mar 10 '12 at 23:45
I want to be able to connect to the box via the network. Didn't seem like it would be hard, but I don't know how much configuration this would take. – 128KB Mar 11 '12 at 3:07

closed as off topic by Shane Madden, cjc, Lucas Kauffman, jscott, WesleyDavid Mar 11 '12 at 0:01

Questions on Server Fault are expected to relate to professional server, networking, or related infrastructure administration within the scope defined in the FAQ. Consider editing the question or leaving comments for improvement if you believe the question can be reworded to fit within the scope. Read more about closed questions here.

1 Answer

up vote 1 down vote

Well, you could have saved yourself a lot of trouble and just use a virtualization environment like VMware workstation.

Just setup a few virtual machines on that first, interconnect them with virtual switches, setup openVPN, mailserver,webserver and most important of all secure them. Once you have done that try a more challenging virtualization environment on your server. Use ESXi, KVM or Xen(center) instead of workstation.

It's a lot of trial and error but you will get the hang of it. Some good places to start for comprehending linux is with the LPI courses. For basic networking I would look at CCNA. But the latter one might be a bit overkill for just managing a VPS.

share|improve this answer
Thanks I will look into your suggestions. Mainly the reason I wanted to throw networking into the mix was because I wanted to kill 2 birds with 1 stone: Learning how to setup the box like a real webserver, but also allowing for connections via the network, for storage, multimedia, etc. – 128KB Mar 11 '12 at 3:03
Just to clarify: are physical switches needed within the LAN to accomplish this? – 128KB Mar 11 '12 at 3:09
Well 1/4th in CCNA is about switching, however you can directly connect 2 devcices with a cross over cable. But I'd just get a switch, you'll need it anyway. – Lucas Kauffman Mar 11 '12 at 8:58
Thanks Lucas. For now I've taken your advice and just went with the VM, but focusing more on setting up the LAMP like the VPS than the networking aspect. – 128KB Mar 12 '12 at 0:14

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.