Recently I have deemed it necessary to setup my own LAMP (linux, apache, mysql, and php) server for development. I've ordered a simple barebones computer with a gig of ram a fast Intel chip and a lot of hard drive space. The board has an AGP slot so I'll probably push my old nVidia 5200 in there... uhmm because every server needs sub par 3D graphics. I'll post a picture of it once it gets here.

The OS I'll be using is Ubuntu Server. I won't be using the default LAMP install option as I want to install and configure each element of LAMP myself. Did I mention that I've never done this before? Luckily I have a decent tutorial to follow:

http://www.howtoforge.com/perfect_setup_ubuntu704

The main reason for setting up my own server has everything to do with programming for updated php 5 and mysql. My current shared hosting still uses php 4 and an older sql server. I'll be doing some work on an updated VPS later this year and I'd like my code to run smooth from the start. Also this will give me some experience with operating the VPS.

The computer should arrive early next week. I've also ordered a Belkin KVM switch so I can share devices as well as audio.