Server/Home Network Setup

[jljhlhl]

Ok here's the deal:

I bought a server online because I figured it was a cheap deal (paid around $100 for it), and I thought I might find a use for it, or just learn some new computer related stuff.

The server came with the following:

* Model: A2
* Server Board: Intel Server Board SE7501WV2
* Chassis Profile: 2U standard depth
* Processors: 2 x Xeon 2.66GHz SL6VM (2666DP/512/533/1.50V)
* No. of Cores: 2
* Memory: PC2100 2 x 1GB (Corsair/Samsung)
* Hard Drive: Fujitsu 4 x 36GB SCSI 15000 RPM
* RAID Controller: None
* Power: 350 watts, DC 12V, 100-240V
* Dimensions (H x W x D): 3.47” x 17.6” x 28.5”

Now, what else do I need to run it? A switch? Router? What all is needed?

As for the uses I'm going to be using it for...I'm thinking of just a basic file server for the computers in my house possibly, hosting a single small dedicated CS:S game server, and possibly hosting a website, but I'm not sure I'll need it for that.

What operating system is recommended for that use, and also, how do I install an operating system with no CD drive or floppy drive? I tried to install an extra copy of Windows XP Professional I had laying around but it was not recognizing the hard drives.

Thanks for any help, it is greatly appreciated!

 

[brian]

OMG YOU GOT THA FOR 100$!!!!!!!!!!

I WANT IT!!! that is extreamly good, may i ask where you got it from?

but what you want is LAN so switches etc. if you have a router you dont need the switch but if you have nothing, then you need a router. for server you have a few choices. free, is linux and they have a great os. or windows server. although pricy it is great.

 

[jljhlhl]

justdeals.com is their ebay username.

I dont know if you're allowed to link to things for sale here, but its not my items so I think it should be okay.

http://search.ebay.ca/_Servers_W0QQcatrefZC2QQsacatZ11211QQsassZjustdealsQ2ecom

They're used, but mine came in good condition, and they're a good big time seller.

I've seen my specific server sell for as low as $60 on there, and as high as close to $200, since this seller has many of them. He also has a few different configurations for sale.

Shipping is a bit pricey, $70 to US I believe, but in all, I thought it was a pretty good deal. Guess we'll find out if I can get it setup!

I guess for now I could use a free Linux distro, since I'm not needing this for a huge corporate network or anything. What would you recommend for a Linux distribution, and how would you recommend installing it? I have an external DVD writer I think would work, but just let me know the easiest way.

I already have a router, so thats all I need? I was just wondering because I generally see switches associated with servers, and I honestly dont know the difference between a switch and router.

Thanks for the help!

 

[voyagerfan99]

Windows 2000 is most stable for server use. Windows XP Pro is okay, but not as stable for servers. There is also Windows Home server, but I don't know how well that is. Although, if you want to go away from Windows, try the Which Linux Distro is right for you? quiz.

 

[brian]

whs is great, however you can only have up to 10 clients on it

 

[jljhlhl]

I put Ubuntu on it, and its working great so far...I'm a little slow on the learning of it since I've never used Linux before, but tutorials are helping out.

I'm currently installing the dedicated server tool for my CS:S server, and then I'll work on the setting up as a home file server.

My only concern is it's only picking up on the single hard drive...would I more than likely have to install the correct SCSI controller, or is there a way to search for HD's on the system, or what is the most probable cause for not recognizing the other 3 hard drives?

Thanks for all the help so far, its much appreciated!