buying my first dedicated server

[deskbar builder]

moving from a reseller account with experince in linux at home (mandrake, gentoo, debian) on serveral desktops.

I want a server to learn more about server use of Linux, but was wondering on a few things.

How can i double check the bandwitdh carrier of these providers, I dont cogent or yipes unless its used for backup.

Any good online manuals or experinces for newbie linux server users besides rackshack.net forums?

Is their a major differnece between unmanged and managed, or is this just a marketing tactic...

Thanks for advice

[DigitalCaravan]

Managed hosting is basically like saying the monitor it and will fix it for you etc... completely hands on... Your paying to have techs there for your server(s). and then unmanaged means you are responsible for all the software and all that on your server. While managed they will do updates and such for you. Before buying your first dedicated server do a lot of research on the company and make sure this is where you want your box at. Call their tech support make sure they answer immediatly incase an emergency arrives you can get someone on the job right away. I have my servers in a couple different locations. and I can call them any hour of the day or night and have my issues resolved. just some things to look at.

[GlobalStephen]

If your new to servers, I definately suggest managed. If the provider that you like doesn't provide management, or it is very expensive, then I suggest using www.fastservermanagement.com they're fast, cheap and affordable.

[omaha.stylee]

you might also look into smaller companies, I know the small companie that I'm with right now has gone above and beyond to help me. I also like the fact that you get to know the staff on more of a personal level because you're not just a number too them. I dunno, just my two cents though.

If you're interested in something like that, I'll point you towards the company that I use, don't want to advertise for them, ya know ;)

[rasputinj]

It all depends on your budget, if you are looking for a low cost dedicated server, then places like

Layeredtech, Ezzi.net, and Gnax are some good options. Now if you are looking for fully managed, which if you know some about Linux you should not need it, just know how to get around in SSH, and do some basic securing ( you can also use sites like WebHostSchool they have some tutorials ). If you want fully managed solutions you can look at ServInt, LiquidWeb are just a few.

Another option is to go with a vps like throught VPSColo or Servint, which is in between a dedicated and a reseller account, a good place to get your feet wet, before you upgrade to dedicated.

[maiself]

what about http://www.resellerworkz.com

good managed price

[rasputinj]

what about http://www.resellerworkz.com

good managed price

I have seen some good reviews on WHT from them, I emailed them about some presales questions they were very responsive. I am with another LayeredTech reseller there and am very happy with network speed and ping rates.