Starting New Server

[Moondoggie78]

Recently, I upgraded my PC with a brand new build and I have a lot of parts left over. I have an i7-7600k that I could use in my server build that I could enable QuickSync. Or, I have access to a PC that has a Intel Xeon E-2124G. Knowing that the Xeon is a server CPU, does that automatically make it a better chance at running my Jellyfin server?

[34626]

Are you sure it's an i7-7600k and not an i5-7600k or an i7-7700k?

[TheDreadPirate]

100% use the 7600K. The Xeon CPU does not have an iGPU, which means you would need to add a separate GPU for accelerated transcoding. The iGPU in the 7600K has all the important codec support for HDR content.

[Moondoggie78]

Are you sure it's an i7-7600k and not an i5-7600k or an i7-7700k?

Yep! You're totally right. It's the i5 lol. Either way, its looking like a general consensus of the 7600k is the way to go for this.

Now to just figure out if I wanna load this on Windows via Docker or run TrueNAS to get things going.

Appreciate everyone's input!

[34626]

Okay, yes it sounds like you cant use the Xeon. When it comes to OS, i would go with a Linux distro, i Use Debain 12 with Jellyfin in a docker, but if you prefer TrueNas, then go for that ;-)

[Moondoggie78]

Okay, yes it sounds like you cant use the Xeon. When it comes to OS, i would go with a Linux distro, i Use Debain 12 with Jellyfin in a docker, but if you prefer TrueNas, then go for that ;-)

Is there a difference in using a Linux based OS vs running it on Windows? Sorry, I'm extremely new to this and trying to nail down all of my options before I start to get this going. My ultimate plan is to at least try to start this server project and then eventually purchase a NAS for it. They're a little expensive though and my wallet can't support that at the moment.

[TheDreadPirate]

Linux is just, generally speaking, better at being a server. It doesn't have "features" that Windows has that make it more suited for a desktop. Linux does not force reboots for updates, for example. Linux, by default, doesn't go to sleep when inactive. Things like that.

If you aren't familiar with Linux, Windows is fine. Docker in Windows is jank and is not recommended for beginners. Lots of weird things you have to do to make hardware acceleration work, etc.

Either go Linux or just install Jellyfin directly on Windows and turn off all the sleep/update functions.

[Moondoggie78]

Linux is just, generally speaking, better at being a server.  It doesn't have "features" that Windows has that make it more suited for a desktop.  Linux does not force reboots for updates, for example.  Linux, by default, doesn't go to sleep when inactive.  Things like that.

If you aren't familiar with Linux, Windows is fine.  Docker in Windows is jank and is not recommended for beginners.  Lots of weird things you have to do to make hardware acceleration work, etc.

Either go Linux or just install Jellyfin directly on Windows and turn off all the sleep/update functions.

I'll definitely keep that in mind! I really appreciate the advice everyone!

[34626]

Linux is much better then Windows, it's more lightweight, it's much more secure and works great with Intel Quick Sync.

Back in the days i also started with a NAS, but i learned quickly why that is a bad idea.. You can use a used computer as a first server. Just ensure it has an Intel CPU i3/i5/i7 with a K (Not F) in the end of model name, and above 11000 series (Just my recommandation). Then later, if you need more transcoding powr, wait for Intels upcoming GPUs, current A300 series sounds to use a lot of power when idle, but else they are good for the money.

[Moondoggie78]

I have a very small amount of experience with Ubuntu when I was in college for IT. Server and Linux were not a main focus, so I feel like this is all new territory for me. I am debating on loading up Ubuntu on the desktop and trying my hand at it. I found at least 1-2 different walkthroughs on YouTube, so I think with that I should be good to go. If not, wipe it and try again!