On Sun, Dec 31, 2017 at 2:13 PM, Alan McKinnon <alan.mckin...@gmail.com> wrote:
> On 31/12/2017 21:40, the...@sys-concept.com wrote:
>> I'm using Gentoo as a server (so it runs 24/7) Apache, Asterisk, Hylafax
>> etc.
>>
>> What are my chances to run Gentoo as a VirtualBox?
>>
>> Installing Gentoo takes me 2-3 days (basic setup min., I don't do it
>> every month so I have to go through Gentoo handbook); to configure it
>> the way I want it takes another week or two.
>>
>> So I was thinking, if I run Windows 10 and configure Gentoo as a
>> virtual box it might be easier to transfer it from one system to
>> another, in case there is a HD failure (like it just happened to me
>> yesterday).
>>
>> Any input will be appreciated.
>> I know I might have problem with Serial port and receiving faxes via
>> HylaFax as they are time sensitive.
>>
>
> Virtualization here will not solve your risk or effort exposure. It will
> increase it.
>
I agree: this way lies pain.
Firstly, if you must use Windows, I highly recommend using Hyper-V
over VirtualBox or VMWare/ESXi. It is free and has better hardware
configuration support.
Secondly, the backup scheme you are wanting to implement is easier and
more robustly done with LVM. Even if you don't want to deal with that,
rsync over SSH is secure and easy to set up. More complicated
solutions like BorgBackup may ultimately be the most appropriate.
Thirdly, save your configuration files so you do not need to reread
the documentation each time you install a system. Look at Gentoo stage
4 tarballs and programs like Ansible or Puppet. You might also
consider running Debian. Gentoo is nice, but not necessary or even
suitable for every use case.
Cheers,
R0b0t1
