Is adminstering your own dedicated server difficult?

[Paranormal Podcast]

I am contemplating getting a dedicated server via a third party (serverbeach, godaddy, etc) on which to run multiple sites and/or podcasts.

I am a somewhat computer literate dude -- I build my systems, etc. However, I don't know Linux and have never done this before. I have built, uploaded, and maintained websites but I have never had my own dedicated server.

First, is this incredibly difficult? Secondly, what hosts do folks recommend? Finally, are there any good web based primers on this?

Thanks,

Jim

[X Pat Radio]

I use Vizaweb. Its pretty easy to do, you get something called cPanel X. Its a graphical interface to configure your stuff.

[jeffbearer]

If you are running a box it's your responsibility to learn how to keep it secure. If you don't think that you can keep on top of it, then I would suggest you find a service where they admin the box.

Run only the software that you need, keep the **** thing updated with security patches that the vendor releases, and subscribe the the security announcement mailing list for the distribution that you are running and all of the applications that you run.

For example in Debian Sarge, the default mailman package has a remote shell exploit, a guy I know was compromised and was his box was a zombie for 3 months doing god knows what before he found it out what was going on.

[SteveBentley]

I'd echo Jeff's thoughts. Dedicated servers running Windows2003 are available from some suppliers which may be worth considering. You can still run apache rather than IIS if you so choose.

How about setting up a linux box locally to play with and see how the thing ticks before jumping in with a dedicated server.

[Patrick]

If you have no experience with server administration, then don't do it.

It's not as easy as running any GUI control panel or any of that nonsense. Basically if you have to ask if you can do it, your probably can't do it right.