Web Hosting Talk : Web Hosting Main Forums : Running a Web Hosting Business : Software

[ChoGuMa]

What software should be installed on a web server. I'm trying to setup a server that I can use like a dedicated server. I'm just trying to understand how the dedicated servers work and to get more in to them. I can install linux 7.2, apache, mysql, php, perl and all the other software. I just don't know what the dedicated servers have.

I hope I made my self clear but if you have any doubt as to what I need help in please don't hesitate to post it or PM me.

Thanks for your help and time.

[RobbertC]

GD Library perhaps?

[ChoGuMa]

Where is that at?

[awhost]

Generally speaking, RedHat 7.2 has everything you need to run a webserver. If you are running a hosting company, you might want some control panel software.

Neofree

[ChoGuMa]

I don't quite understand this stuff yet. So the only software I need is a control panel to run and manage a dedicated server?

[awhost]

You don't even need a control panel, but you will have to configure everything manually.

Redhat 7.2 may have a buit in web interface to manage it, but i dont know for sure. I know 7.1 did not, but previous versions did.

On one hand it is good to learn how to do things manually, makes your technical expertise a lot higher. But, if you're not wanting to get very technical, then you want a control panel.

There are two basic types of control panels. One that will work just for you, to manage machine and webserver. And one that will provide control panels to your customers, if you are running a hosting company.

The big question is, are you trying to start a hosting business? Or are you just wanting a dedicated server for a large traffic site?

If hosting company, H-Sphere, Plesk, Ensim, Cpanel are worth looking into. Also look at what your dedicated server provides, if anything.

If just for one site, try something like Webmin.

Neofree

[Naelurec]

What is your server being used for? You may want dns, ssh, ssl, encryption libraries, gd, pdflib, python, bandmin/mrtg (to log bandwidth usage), pop/smtp server, web-based email client, etc.. Given that this is under the webhosting biz forum, I'd assume you are asking as if you wanted to run a webbiz -- if thats the case, it is probably best to check out the various control panels, learn what software they use (bind, exim, apache, php, perl, python, etc..) and get a good grasp on how to use those software packages directly (install, compile, configure, troubleshoot, monitor, log, etc..)

[ChoGuMa]

That is what I'm talkin about. I need to setup a dedicated server to see how things really work and get a hands on practice where I can play around with a server and not damage anything. This server will not be in production. This will just be a test system for my learning experience.

Thanks for the input guys

[awhost]

Good idea to learn each program.

Many just dont want to though.

Generally speaking getting a dedicated server with Linux and a control panel puts almost everything you need to run hosting business. Things like apache, dns, php, cgi's, ssl, etc. are all configured by the control panel. Buit there may be additional features you want to add that the cp doesnt have. Remember this can be tricky. If your changes require doing stuff the control panel manages. Ask in the forums of the CP maker before adding something.

But then you've got billing, domain registration, support, tickets, etc. etc. I like H-Sphere because it covers nearly 100% of all issues. I like this because more then just me will eventually maintain server. I personally am pretty knowledgable with Linux however.

Neofree

[ChoGuMa]

What software packages should be installed in a dedicated server. I would like to know the specific packages most commonly used for running a dedicated server.

Great Support Guys!

[awhost]

Most control panels install these for you, or tell you what to use.

The most common ones are:

Apache
PHP (add in module for Apache)
Perl (both command line and Apache Add-in)
MySQL (both admin and user interfaces)
Apache ASP or Chillisoft
Java run time for servlets
many more
any of the default configurations of linux will include things like: DNS, networking, etc. etc.

In fact I would recommend installing the "server" install, or "custom install" but just keep in common options are already preselected in custom install... most things (perl java apache) are already installed. (if you select "web server" option).. things like php, mysql, apache asp you will have to select in the list (or download if not included with redhat)

but if you're buying a dedicated server, all these things should be preinstalled for you. only special things will you need to add. if you don't already know special requirements, I wouldn't even worry about it until you run into a situation taht you need something else.

Neofree

[ChoGuMa]

Thanks for your advice neofree.

The fog is starting to clear up.