The document discusses how to enable non-expert users to manage Linux servers effectively through simplified tools, specifically using NethServer. It emphasizes a user-friendly, web-based interface and modular design to lower the knowledge barrier and facilitate easier installation and configuration. Key features highlighted include an all-in-one customizable server distribution, various support modules, and an efficient setup process.

1. Linux Server Administration
for non-expert users
Alessio Fattorini

2. me@localhost:~$ _

3. A lot of fun

4. Tool shed

5. Control Everything

6. Give me a shell and i will
move the earth
- Archimedes

7. me@localhost:~$ _

11. How can we get people who
aren’t experts?

13. Who
● Linux Sysadmin and Support Specialist
● NethServer Community Guy
● Nerd with many friends
● Prosecco evangelist
twitter.com/ale_fattorini
alessio.fattorini@nethserver.org

14. 79% of cloud deployments

16. BUT

17. Typical IT Team

18. Linux Experts

19. The others

20. Learn or get left behind

21. high knowledge barrier

22. Replace a proprietary
mailserver

23. BUT

24. Get lost in complex configurations

26. 1. Steep learning curve

27. 2. Lack of motivation

28. everyday we building interfaces on top of interfaces
3. Lack of time

30. Interfaces on top of interfaces

31. from day one

32. 3 main points
● web-based user interface
● simplified installation
● single-click installation of modules

34. ● distribution for servers
● modular design
● built-in powerful and modern web
interface
● based on CentOS

35. Who’s it for?

36. All-in-one and customizable

37. Some Modules
● LAMP framework
● Web proxy with SSL filter (Squid),
● Groupware (SOGo),
● Bandwidth Monitor (ntopng)
● Mail Server (Postifx + Spamassassin +
Clamav + Amavis)
● VPN (OpenVPN and IPsec/L2TP),
● Firewall (Shorewall)
● Intrusion Detection (Snort)
● Personal cloud (ownCloud)

38. MailServer from scratch
1. load NethServer ISO
2. configure 1 LAN interface (at least)
3. point the browser to the WebUI
4. complete First Installation Wizard (3 fields)
5. install MailServer module
6. add new email domain
7. add new user and mail address
8. it’s all. TOTALLY PAINLESS

39. ~30k downloads ~150 countries

41. Takeaways?

42. Even a non expert user

43. choosing the right product

44. is able to manipulate the code

45. and kick bad guys ass

46. Thank you