How I got a new homeserver using FreeBSD and Zotac ZBOX

I really needed a new homeserver where I can run some apache, mysql, php and git for development purpose. Ive long searched but stumbled on a Zotac ZBOX.

I had to add a disk (160GB, 2.5") and some memory (2GB). The Zotac costed 2000 SEK, all together it rounded up to a bit more than 3000SEK. More than reasonable for a home server.

I installed FreeBSD, minimal configuration. It all went fine besides some trouble getting into the BIOS. But with some help from the online support of Zotac it worked out. Great support, by the way, looked like IRC. To get into the BIOS I had to press the delete button at the same time as a light flashed at the computer. Strange, but it worked out.

Ready to rock. My own homeserver in the library, right by the books. Only connected to the powercord and the internet. Thats all that is needed.

From Installera hemmaserver i bokhyllan, Zotac Zbox med FreeBSD

And here is the server to be replaced (the white one)... some change or?

From Homeserver using Zotac Zbox and FreeBSD

You can see the pictures from the installation and setup procedure here.

Installera hemmaserver i bokhyllan, Zotac Zbox med FreeBSD

Keep ports collection updated using portsnap

We will use the ports collection and do all installations from that. We have choosen to use portsnap as the way to keep the ports library updated.

http://www.freebsd.org/doc/handbook/ports-using.html
http://www.freebsd.org/doc/handbook/updating-upgrading-portsnap.html

It seems fairly straight forward and by first look it was much easier than doing it by csup.

Just to go to /usr/ports and execute:

# portsnap fetch
# portsnap extract 

The Plan!

So maybe it's a good idea to make some kind of plan and workflow to get an idea of were we're going with this project and what we want to achieve.

The idea of the project is to setup and maintain a server based of a unix/linux distro with the purpose of being able to function as an open-source platform as well as giving students access to an irssi client which should make it easier, for those not having their own server in the closet, to become active members of BTHs irc community.

Below will be a basic off-the-top of my head list of the program and functions that i feel are suited for the project.

1. Minimalistic FreeBSD installation with ports and SSH enabled.
   
2. Use portsnap to keep the ports collection updated.
3. Install screen.
4. Install irssi. 
5. Install Apache.
6. Install PHP.
7. Install MySQL.
8. Install Subversion and Git.
9. Install Trac (and GitWeb?). 
10. Setup backup solution.
    
11. Setup environment for each user.

I think thats basically it i think. Feel free to come with suggestions and ideas Mos.