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How do I setup my own server for a business?

I am setting up an online trading post site with features such as member login, search, and photo upload. I need a big server that will be able to support massive traffic and hold the account information of around 5,000 members. How do I set up server(s) that are cost efficient, reliable, and powerful? Would it be recommended that I do it myself or hire someone? Where can I hire someone? Is there a good company anyone would recommend?

Public Comments

1. Normally I would encourage anyone to try themselves, but it sounds like you have a very ambitious plan. Even for an experienced IT person I think this would take a little more effort than just setting up servers out of the box. HIRE someone, it'll be well worth it in the end.
2. The cheapest route is Linux, Apache, MySQL and PHP (called LAMP). These are all free downloads. I use MS Win (hacked for more connections), Apache, MySQL and PHP. There are off the shelf websites that one can configure yourself, which even if you don't do the initial setup, makes it easier for you to make changes in the future without hiring a pro every time. The best beginning is to have a clear picture (on paper) of how you want your site to look and flow. This will save you lots of headaches, rework and expense from those you hire.
3. you can't do this or do that!