Web Hosting Talk : Web Hosting Main Forums : Dedicated Server : Skill level required for root server management

[stefan72]

Hello all,

Just joined here...I am hosting about 12 TYPO3 websites in a shared hosting environment, but I need to think about upgrading to a faster (dedicated) server as some of the sites have a higher traffic volume.

I am not a pro and use Linux only as a user. How dificult is it to manage a root server? Is all done via an easy Control Panel or do I need expert knowledge to install software etc?

Or shoud I look for a managed server where all is done for me?

Appreciate your help, hints and tips.

Cheers
Stephen

[cristibighea]

Well, Linux isn't all point-and-click installs and configurations; a control panel will help you a lot in organizing user accounts, databases, e-mails and so on, but on the backend you need to know how to keep software updated and how to keep everything secure.

If your budget is still rather small, you might want to try a fully managed VPS, unless you are sure you require a lot of resources and a dedicated would be needed.

[stefan72]

Many thanks for your tips! How does such a backend look like? Would it be the same as a Linux OS with GUI (Gnome, KDE or ..., Software Package Manger etc... or does the software need to be installed using the shell?

Cheers,

[cristibighea]

GUIs are more rare on VPS than servers, because you have a lower amount of resources allocated and it will probably slow you down most of the time. Even on servers, everything is mostly done using a shell, though you can get something like cPanel/WHM and manage everything with point and click, add accounts and so on, and leave the pros for the backend stuff .

[24x7group]

Most things can be managed from the control panel, but security still has to be done on the server itself via root. If you have no clue how to start with it, you can hire someone for 1 time or search for a provider who can do the management for you on a monthly basis to keep everything updated.

[osphere]

Why dont you just download the distribution of linux that you like, and install it on a computer you have?, so you can practice. There are a lot of guides on the internet about commands, etc.