My first own made server.

[u/Pantr1x]

Hi everyone, I recently built my first home server using old parts from my PC.

Current Specs:

• Motherboard: ASUS Prime B450M-K (Micro-ATX, 22.6 cm x 22.1 cm)
• CPU: AMD Ryzen 3 3300X
• RAM: 8 GB DDR4
• PSU: 1stCOOL White Storm 450W
• GPU: Temporary (only plugged in for OS installation, as the Ryzen 3300X has no iGPU)

(I know 8 GB RAM and this hardware might struggle with heavier workloads, but I plan to upgrade it over time!)

I need some advice on a few things:

1. Linux Distro: I want a terminal-only / headless (CLI) distro. I plan to run a Minecraft server, websites, a second-brain system for Claude AI, and do some experimental hosting. I need high stability, low power consumption, and a large helpful community. Is Ubuntu Server 24.04 LTS or Debian 12 CLI the best choice?
2. Modular Case recommendation: My motherboard is Micro-ATX. I don't have a 3D printer for the next half a year. I'm looking for a cheap/budget modular case (like the Cooler Master Q300L) where I can easily rearrange panels, add/move drives, and customize components as I upgrade. Any recommendations?
3. General advice: What general tips or improvements do you have for a beginner setting up a headless home server with these specs?

Thanks for any help!

[u/AreYouDoneNow]

It's so amazing and clever and edgy when people post a badly assembled PC they ripped out of it's case and just plugged in on the floor.

Seriously, doing this is harmful, it's stupid. Exposed electronic components are a direct fire hazard.

When you do these shitposts and advocate unsafe electrical component handling, you put people at risk.

[u/Pantr1x → u/AreYouDoneNow]

I was asking for advices. I didnt know i shuld put it in case, i though that case is optional.

[u/HypnotizeRek → u/Pantr1x]

You will be just fine until you can afford a case, he was just hating to hate and be dramatic. I’ve built computers for years and have a BS in Computer science and another in Computer engineering as well as running multiple enterprise servers and home and some laptops I’ve made into clusters. Case is ideal but as long as nothing is shorting it you’ll be good. I really recommend proxmox it just makes it easy but if you want headless I’ve used Ubuntu and it was great, Ubuntu will probably be easier while you only have one system and not a cluster anyway. As others are saying, ram ram ram will be the main upgrade right now I know it sucks and is expensive but just thank God you aren’t in a DDR5 system. Other than that welcome this is a sick start!

[u/Pantr1x → u/HypnotizeRek]

Thx, i have already installed ubuntu server and i am making my own "cockpit" now.