Hello,
I'm new to this forum and have decided to start using zenphoto for online media database projects I'm working on. I created this topic to chronicle my exploits on working with Virtual Private Servers, Linux, and other programs including zenphoto. I hope this helps some of you out there.
WHO IS THIS POST FOR ?
Are you a blogger (wordpress, joomla, drupal) that has has recently made the switch to a Virtual Private Server (VPS) or a dedicated server to be able to get shell access to install and run stuff like zenpage or Flash Media Server? This is me!
Do you know just enough about Linux commands, and how servers work to get yourself into trouble? Then you are definitely in my shoes!
Are you getting stopped in your tracks by a bunch of small problems with your Zenphoto install and use? Then read further.
I will be updating this as I go so I hope it helps others.
Zenphoto
Comments
For those of you having a problem with your zenphoto/zenpage install like me, lets all put your problems in one place so there are no repeat posts.
Do some research
Check the rest of this post before asking a question. Basic stuff I know but many people don't use the search window on the site partially because they don't even know the right question to ask.
Get a Tutorial
Companies like VTC make excellent tutorials (some of which are partially free online) that can teach you the basics of linux, php, mysql, and other softwarte platforms to help you along the way. I am using my notes here as a place to keep all this stuff in case I loose them.
NO CODING
If your like me, you need to remember you are not learning how to code in php or any other language. Working with zenphoto is like bolting on a supercharger to a pre-built and fully working car engine, not building the engine from a block of solid aluminum.
LOTS OF DIFFERENT COMBINATION, ONLY ONE YOU
There are many different setup and no forum will cover every variation. You will have to have a basic skill set before attempting this kind of thing.
It is easy to get overwhelmed, just take it one step at a time and take on one problem at a time.
I believe this software has lots of possibilities and I think you'll see this too.
If your like me you have access to a Virtual Private Server. These things offer alot of flexibility and options but as I have learned that comes with a price.
The most challenging thing about setting one of these up is the fact that it really doesn't take alot of commands to make it all work, its just finding out what those commands are that can be very aggravating. Searching long and far for that one line you type into your terminal program that makes everything work perfectly is what I'm all about. Maybe we all can share this info here????
NOT ALL LINUX IS FREE
I chose Centos5 as the operating system for my website. It was free and it seems to work very well with alot of programs I want to try like Flash Media Server. Other versions of linux like redhat are expensive, but you are getting support for it (you do get what you pay for!).
FYI: OSX is a form of unix, of which linux was created from.
As a blogger I want more control over the video quality and can't stand youtube. This is one of the reasons why I'm into using VPS now. You should consider it an not be too put off by the task, the rewards are many.