I was just wondering where you can learn to manage servers. I know there are a lot of web hosting companies out there with their own servers, and they obviously must know how to manage them. However, I don't know how they learn to do this.

Is there a school and/or certificate for this? Where can you learn? There must be something as I don't wouldn't think every tech/host taught themselves.

Personally, I am not looking to get this involved quite yet but it would be nice to start learning so when the time comes I am prepared.

Any help is greatly appreciated, especially personal stories. Thanks.

Grab some books on Linux and Networking. Knowledge comes with experience.

Well, you'd be surprised how many of the webhosts are self-taught. The best way is to read some books and try to get as much experience as you can.

If you feel more comfortable with a tutor, you can check your local business listings for schools teaching system administration and networking.

Thanks for the replys. As far as books go, do you have any recommendations? Should I look for linux books? system admin books? networking books? or all?

Good starting point is http://safari.oreilly.com/

Rus

If you're new to linux, I'd suggest that you first read up on that and try to build your knowledge/skills. Once accomplished, you can then move on to hard core system administration and networking.

Oh, and do not forget to through Windows in the mix, somewhere :D

Yes, grab some books.

Can get them for a great price on ebay or second hand trading places (got myself the whole uni course textbook set for around $2, all of the dumies books for $5, gotta love it).

I learn best from doing. I've been doing this stuff for as long as i can remember. Books are the key, and trial and error. Test servers are great :D

The way that I learned to do alot of the stuff is by building up a cheapo 500mhz box and sticking linux on it. And play around, because if i messed it up i could just reimage it. Its perfect for learning also I have a few linux books that told me what to do etc :)
Always a good starting point like people have stated.