basic server, no gui's

[Rod Haper]

hbrhodes wrote:
> is it terribly hard to set up a server (stick it in the basement you 
> know), and hook other computers to it?  i'm thinking it would involve a 
> minimal install, with the server options from the install.  Then i would 
> have to modify some files like /etc/hosts.allow, deny, an maybe the 
> firewall (what ports to open up?), and user permissions?
> 
> i'm thinking the firewall would be done with iptables, and i could set 
> group permissions to something like "users" or something.  my goal is to 
> set up a computer that i can put httpd on, and have it set up so i can 
> put all my files on it without worrying about losing them if i decide to 
> format my upstairs computer!
> 


Your best bet is a dedicated router-oriented distro like Coyote Linux 
<http://www.coyotelinux.com/>

I've been using the floppy based version for years as the gateway for my 
home LAN.  It's very secure, easy to install and maintain and requires 
minimal hardware resources.

---
Rod