Dear Gang,
I need specific recommendations. I am trying to get get all my websites under control and on one server. I know HTML and how to install some basic scripts, that's all.
I initially thought it was going to be easy to get a dedicated or managed server and put up a lot of web sites. But as I read here people are having to install pHp, ensin - whatever that is. Somebody said:
"So I set up my website. Installed Postfix, Webmin, htdig, mailman, etc. Setup imap."
Is there a dedicated hosting service where all you have to do is type in the URL of the new site you want to build, and then just build the site? And then do this over and over again until one has all 200 web sites up? These are all my sites. I am not reselling any. I can install the cgi programs and contract out a few of the tougher scripts.
What is the least complicated managed server option. I have a full time job saving people's lives. I don't have time to spend becoming a full time system's administrator.
Help! Please.
Bradley

I suggest you look into getting a RaQ4 server as they are a lot easier to manage. They come with most things installed, an easy to use control panel where you can add websites, emails, etc. And when it's type to update something, all you have to do is copy/paste the URL to the .pkg file which you find on their website and wait a few seconds. However, RaQs are usually not as powerfull machines as the monsters offered by most dedicated providers today. Depending on your websites, you might need to buy additional RAM or get a 2nd server.

i'll second the RAQ4. it's not a powerhouse, but if you're hosting 100 or so small - mid sites that should be fine (as long as you have 256 - 512mb ram on the box).

they are great to start out learning with for a newbie, everything you'll need to know you can get from the RAQ forum on this here WHT (or from rachshack). there are plenty of people who can help as well.

you will want to learn about security / installing the firewall on your RAQ4 (ipchains/pmfirewall), which, there are plenty of howto on WHT and rackshack.

here are some good RAQ companies...

www.serverrack.net
www.rackshack.net
www.4webspace.com

i would also recommend getting a redhat linux book and reading up a bit on that...

Easy newbie solution - Raq4 and Microsoft Frontpage.

Even if you don't use Frontpage the Raq4 is a good newbie server - try Bert at Pronic Solutions for a great deal and really friendly help:

hostmaster@pronicsolutions.com