We all use servers daily. Whether we’re syncing files, streaming music or working in web apps, we rely on remote processing and centralised data storage. Indeed, much of the time we’re working with data that never touches our local machines.
But a server that’s owned and operated by someone else isn’t always the best option. Suppliers build their infrastructure to service the needs of their business – so unless your needs just happen to coincide with their most efficient way of making money, the services you use won’t be perfectly tailored to your requirements.
There is an alternative: run your own server at home. The idea may seem outdated – the Windows Home Server platform came and went many years ago. But it’s as practical as ever to repurpose an old PC that would otherwise be gathering dust, and you don’t need a server-specific version of Windows: a Linux distribution is arguably a better option, and not just because it’s free.
Here, we’ll show you how to build and configure a home server using Ubuntu 22.04. You can use more or less any PC or laptop: all you need is a dual-core x86 processor, 4GB or more of memory, at least 25GB of hard drive space (note that the drive will be wiped during installation) and a VGA or higher-resolution display. If you don’t have a suitable computer, check eBay, Gumtree or second-hand stores.
Server vs desktop software
Ubuntu is offered in Desktop and Server variants, and while the name might point you towards the latter, there are good reasons for sticking with the Desktop edition.
One of them is the fact that the
