Linux on home file server

[Logan09]

I am planning on setting up a home file server to serve my MCE machine & Xbox360, as well as 2 laptops. I would like to run Linux on it, as it seems to be reccomended and also because I'd like to learn more about Linux. I have a couple of questions:

1) Which distribution of Linux would you lot reccomend for a home server? It needs to support Raid 1 & Raid 5 (not decided which to go with yet).

2) What other things can I use the home server for (I already plan on using it as a print server)?

Thanks.

 

[zetec452]

I've got Ubuntu running on a p3 633 with a RAID0 array. Runs fine, I'm also using it as an rsync, ftp, web and database server.

 

[BillytheImpaler]

Why RAID0 for a server? That seems like it's asking for trouble.

 

[zetec452]

Why RAID0 for a server? That seems like it's asking for trouble.

Need the space and wanted to have a play. The raid0 volume is rsync'd to an external drive in the event of failure every day. Once I have the dosh Ill buy 2x400 gig drives and raid1 them.