Home Server Operating System?

Question

Similar question, but with some different prerequisites:

http://superuser.com/questions/157702/best-operating-system-for-home-server

Currently, the set up in my home is Windows XP/7 machines (the Home/Home Premium versions), and I have an older machine that was once a server for a small business, but now I have acquired it, and wish to turn it into a home server...It does not have much capacity (100GB), or RAM (512MB), it does have RAID...

My question: what is your recommendation for a simple home server to:

• Share files & printers
• Remote Server (allow VNC connections and such)
• Easily run headless (due to space constrictions, I wish to set this up, and then be able to remove the monitor and control remotely via another PC)
• Web interface
• Program/software server (I want to be able to run basic software from the server, via the network

I have already tried Windows Server 2003 Standard, but since my operating systems are the 'home' version, I cannot connect to a domain. I am looking for a free solution. Thanks!

Answer 1

Free pretty much means based on Linux or BSD.

• Sharing files - Samba
• Remote server - just install VNC, or FreeNX
• Printers - Cups
• Headless - nothing special here that's how most people manage Linux and BSD boxes
• Web interface - Webmin might be what you're looking for

The choice between the various Linux and BSD distros is entirely personal. Asking which is "best" has been known to start flame wars because of that. Some are more "newbie" friendly than others, but I'd suggest you start by installing the one you want to test in a virtual machine. That'll save you time if you change your mind.

Answer 2

It's not free but this works well. Windows Home Server