[axxs-sysadmin] a new server for axxs.org

[Cameron Gregg]

Hi All,

there has been talk among some of us of getting a new server for
axxs.org. I'll try describe the rationale and action plan for this. All
your feedback is welcome.


Currently we have a good system. It has 1GB of RAM, enough hard disk 
space, 10Mb network connection and CPU seems to do ok. It runs a redhat 
distrobution of linux.

The plan is to get a new box, with slightly more grunty hardware, and 
alternative/upgraded software.

Looking at the RAM stats currently its nearly always nearly full. I 
suggest 2 or 3 GB (or 4, if its within financial reach) RAM for the new box.

A 100Mb network connection so it's a lot harder to slow connection 
speeds (spam/DOS attacks).

Everyone I talk to agrees we should move off redhat and use debian. The 
new version of debian (etch) is nearly due for release, so even if we 
get a box before it is, i suggest we go with it.
Reasons for debian? most of us are more familiar with it, and its less 
corporate. I will certainly be more effective as sysadmin using debian.

Our current versions of things like mysql are very, veeery, old, and it 
seems it isn't straight forward to upgrade. A new box will allow us to 
move to the latest stable release of things. I imagine mysql5 /  php5 / 
apache 2, for a start.

Currently we use Plesk as a control panel for easy configuration. This 
isn't ideal as its a closed source solution. Moving to an open source 
one is preferable. I have already sent a list of some I found:
http://lists.indymedia.org/pipermail/axxs-sysadmin/2006-September/0917-oy.html


A new server will give us a new option of being able to view BIOS 
remotely, which means no panicing if a kernel upgrade stuffs up.

There is also the idea of running xen, which would allow us to run our 
own virtual servers within the physical one. Not sure if this is 
feasible as none of have much knowledge of it.
http://www.cl.cam.ac.uk/research/srg/netos/xen/index.html


The current box is paid for about another 10 months. If we can get this 
box up in the next month or so, that gives us plenty of time to migrate 
stuff.


Finally, fundraising.  It's going to cost about $2500 AUD per 12 months. 
Axxs.org needs to become self sustainable and not rely on Dave's 
cashbook. I think each group should contribute what they are able. At 
this stage can everyone ask their groups how much they can pledge to 
this project, then we can tally it up and see if its doable. I should be 
able to get some from the groups I have on the box.

I will kick things off with a personal contribution of $50.


Cam