Router

OK, we've been busy with design issues, but now that it's over, I need to know which routers would you recommend. I've had shitty luck with my wireless routers so far.

The Flavor argument

Just for the sake of argument, I'm going to use Linux or the BSD's, which flavor should I use.

Make your best case for your favorite.

I'm leaning towards Linux at the moment, because my needs are minimal in terms of server use, but picking Linuxes is like picking ice cream, you've got a lot of choices.

Linux vs Free/Open BSD

Ok, why should I use one over the other.

Let me explain my situation:

I have a fully functional AMD PC with 200 gigs of HD memory, a gig of RAM, A DVD-ROM and a DVD burner.

The only reason it's a server is because something had to be and I trust this machine more than some used box off of eBay or a $299 Dell.

And I plan to allow limited connectivity to this for friends and family online.

So why should I use Linux over FreeBSD or vice versa.

The first decision

Ok, the first decision I have to make is on the Network Operating System to use.

But before we get into that, we need to get into the reason for building a server.

Simply put, I run two computers on a regular basis, my new desktop and my new laptop. However, sharing files between them is a pain and forces me offline. It would be much easier to have my files, like MP3's, printing, documents and as backup for my main machines.

Of course, there are a lot of options, and I'd like to sort them out. But the first thing is to decide what to use.

There are three basic choices:

Windows Server 2003

Linux

Open BSD


Each has an advantage and disadvantage, so this would be a good place to start kicking it around

Welcome to the Server Logs

Welcome to the server logs. This is an attempt to record the process of building a server and aquiring computers. It will be an interesting experience, which is why we're building a blog around it.

I figured that it would make sense to set up a seperate blog to discuss this, get ideas and have people contribute.

There won't be any ads, any mention of politics or begging for cash. Just a diary of building a server.

Why? So it can serve as a resource for people looking to do the same thing.