~Toughbooktalk~

I am looking at getting a home server for gaming with the kids. I like the looks of the Dell poweredge 2900, been looking a few units on ebay. Do any of you have any recommendations. I would like to have one that has plenty of ram 8gb+ has dual, dual cores. I have seen some good prices in on some IBM blades too, but I think the blades require a cabinet and I can't just plug it in.

Blades are WAY WAY WAY WAY overkill for home use, PLUS, most of them run on 220v, which most houses don't have the plugs for! (well, you have 220 at your house, but most likely it's two 110 lines).

The poweredge 2900 is a GORGEOUS server! I have a few at work and they run FOREVER! My backup webserver is a 2950 too!

As far as these are concerned, your electric bill WILL GO UP A LOT! They suck power like crazy!

I'm a server EXPERT! If you want to call me, I can talk more on the phone. I'm slammed at work and don't feel like typing 2 pages worth of stuff right now when I can just tell you on the phone. Be sure to call me, as I'm a am BEYOND an expert at these things!

A few things to consider too:

1) Internet line speeds
2) Static IP's will be needed
3) You have to have a VAST, VAST understanding of networking, ESPECIALLY if you get into VPN's and multiple networks and subnets.
4) You need to understand ports, port forwarding, and network security
5) You need to have ample batteries to supply power when the line goes down, and it needs to run long enough to get your generator running.
6) Heat will be a problem too with a 2900 series... I suggest a portable, dedicated AC unit too.
7) Wireless???
8 ) Server management software???

If any of the above items are a grey area for you, you need to look more into a Windows Home Server, as they are MUCH simpler!

That sounds like the answers I need. I will call you when I get home. I am at work in Dubai right now. I get home late on the 10th.

Okay! Man! Have fun in Dubai!!!! I can't wait to go there! It looks like it's just awesome!!!

Thanks!

It's been in the 140's with the heat index. It was 98 degrees when I got off the plane at midnight on the way to work a month ago. The heat will peak this month or the next. I have worked in the middle east for around 5 to 6 years now, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, etc. Dubai isn't what it's cracked up to be. I wouldn't pay myself to come here once you know what all goes on in the back ground. If you want to know more I will tell you when I talk to you on the phone.