Suggestions for school lab server?

[FijiJohn]

I need to set up a simple file server for a school computer lab with about 16-20 student computers. It needs to be easy to use, provide secure log-ins for students so they can leave their private files on the server. The server will be turned off every afternoon and re-booted inthe morning. (Bad power here and no UPS - too costly.) Cheap is best (Linux???) but I probably can get a deal through son who works for M$ if I new what I needed.

[BipolarBill]

You'll need Windows 2000 Server or Server 2003 because Pro won't allow any more than 10 concurrent network connections. Otherwise, Linux is the way.

The PC itself can be pretty simple, but should have at least 512MB RAM and a speedy hard drive.

[cat5e]

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2003/sbs/default.mspx

:D

[FijiJohn]

Thanks guys. I think it might be easier for me to use SBS or Win2003 Server but the CALS are expensive!!! I barely get around in Linux but it might be worthwhile learning more just to save the schools here some money. (Schools here are VERY poor and depend on donations for computers. Software is almost entirely pirated copies.) Any suggestions on the Linux side if I cannot get the Windows server software donated?

[Sterling_Aug]

We had no problem setting up a Linux server in school 5 years ago when I went back for a degree.

Get a book on Red Hat or SuSe that comes with the CD, or simply download the latest Ubuntu 6.06 CD which claims to be the easiest server install yet.

[FijiJohn]

I've got all three (although not sure about Ubuntu version) laying around. I'll see if I can set it up - and securely enough to avoid student hacking. :)

Thanks for the suggestions.

[Sterling_Aug]

Ubuntu 6.06 just cam out this week. This is the easiest version yet to set up.

I also tried the Live CD version that boots from the CD and runs my Dual Opteron 64 bit system.

http://www.ubuntu-linux.org