I'm looking to get my own dedicated server for hosting. I'm not every experienced with dedicated servers, however I'm very quick at catching onto things. I'm sure there are others here who remember the first time they got a dedicated server. I'm looking into a Linux one, but am wondering how difficult they are to maintain? What are the main things I need to know, and what books would you recommend for running a Linux server?

Also what did you do yourself to eventually run your own server independantly? Did you teach yourself, go with a managed server and become independant, get someone else in? Tips greatly appreciated!

In addition, I'm also looking into a quality dedicated servers, and am wondering who dedicated server customers would recommend? I'm looking for a server ideally in CA or along the west coast.

I'll also obviously require support initially to help setup and maintain the server, but I'm not very experieced. So I'm thinking possibly a managed dedicated server or getting someone else to help me out - although I'm not sure who (recommendations? - offers? PM :stickout: ).

This seems like a great board - thanks for any help!