I’m interested in using Manjaro Linux to set up a personal decentralized server. As a self-directed learner, I appreciate the opportunity to gain hands-on experience.
I plan to host a website/wiki, a chat server, and video content on this server. My goal is to create a self-hosted environment that reduces reliance on centralized platforms.
I’m particularly interested in knowing if Manjaro’s features and documentation would be suitable for a learner like me. I’d prefer to avoid using the AUR repository to minimize the risk of encountering technical difficulties.
Specifically, I’d like to understand:
System requirements: What hardware specifications would be recommended for a server handling approximately 150 active users, 200 YouTube subscribers, and 50 unique website visitors per day? I’m also interested in planning for future growth.
Software compatibility: Are there any essential packages or configurations I should be aware of for running these services on Manjaro?
Security considerations: How can I ensure the security of my server and data in a decentralized environment?
Documentation and resources: What documentation or online resources are available to help me learn and troubleshoot issues with Manjaro for server setup?
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing your insights.
I was worried that would be the case. What OS would you recommend?
Sorry. I’ve done some very basic research into applications. I need to look at their compatibility for a decentralized setup.
Website/Wiki: I have no idea. I’m currently using Notion as a website. Everything is set up in Gallery Cards. I’m not sure if I’m allowed to post the website here.
Chat Server: Element and Mattermost are what I’ve looked at so far.
Video Hosting: I’ve been testing Odysee and looking at Peertube. Most likely Odysee is off the list. It’s not a truly decentralized setup as I don’t control the platform.
This is not a final list. It’s just the beginning of my research into what’s out there.
For now, let’s say I’m willing to deal with a little downtime. I’ve been using Manjaro for personal use for a while and haven’t had major issues in a few years. I’ve stayed away from the AUR repository and avoided the headaches I had when I first started with Manjaro.
EDIT: I see someone else has chimed in about Rolling Release not being suitable for a server.
I just want to share, I’m just looking for thoughts, opinions and ideas. Not looking for someone to build it for me or to be a help vampire. Just trying to get brainstorming rolling in the right direction.
Any rolling release model should generally not be considered as a server system, where uptime is paramount.
No rolling Linux OS can guarantee this, as the system state is constantly in flux with frequent updates; any of which could cause downtime if/when something needs manual attention.
Ongoing system maintenance is a prerequisite when choosing Manjaro. It’s just how it is. Manjaro is not the best platform to be used as a server.
There are others much more suitable.
Debian (proper), as one example, is a rock solid point-release OS that is much better suited to your stated needs. Most any Enterprise Linux (EL) will be better suited; OpenSUSE, AlmaLinux, Rocky Linux and Fedora Server (as the name suggests) are also worth looking at.
Of course, there’s nothing preventing you from logging into your server from a Manjaro client.
