Custom Linux Server Image Creation

@AZTURK1

Hi there, I'll build you a repeatable Ubuntu install-only ISO with accel-ppp (all typical modules), PHP 8.4, FRR, iptables as the default filter, and all upstream NIC drivers—Intel, Broadcom, Mellanox—loaded automatically. No desktop, no local login, console TTYs disabled, root login off, key-only SSH. What I'll do: ✅ Create a Packer/Live-build recipe plus the finished ISO, verified booting cleanly on mixed hardware via USB/PXE. ✅ Pre-configure hardened SSH (key auth only), masked unused services, and a default-deny iptables policy with an easy extension README. ✅ Test the full install from ISO to boot on a VM and bare-metal-ish environment, confirm FRR/accel-ppp start, then hand over with checksums. ✅ Linux: Ubuntu, Debian, kernel tuning, live-build/Packer ✅ Networking: FRR, BGP/OSPF, iptables, accel-ppp, NIC drivers ✅ Security hardening: TTY lockdown, service masking, firewall policy ✅ Automation: scripts, Packer, CI-friendly builds ✅ Microsoft® Certified: MCSA | MCSE | MCT ✅ 300+ projects delivered, 280+ five-star reviews Why me: I've built and hardened countless Linux routers and server images for datacentre deployment; I respond fast and iterate until it's right. One question: do you have a preferred kernel version (stock Ubuntu LTS or HWE) and the exact accel-ppp module list you need included? I can have this ready in 3 days for $456 USD and start immediately once you award.

@rupa37

With over a decade and a half of experience as a Linux Systems Administrator and DevOps specialist, I am uniquely positioned to tackle the intricacies of your Custom Linux Server Image project. Throughout my career, I have skillfully developed and optimized IT infrastructures, ensuring scalability, stability, and security. These experiences perfectly align with your need for a purpose-built Ubuntu-based server image. My deep understanding of Linux systems extends beyond mere familiarity with different distributions. Rather, it encompasses a comprehensive grasp of their various components, from networking drivers to configuration nuances. This knowledge will prove invaluable as I create an install-only ISO that precisely matches your specifications. Moreover, I am keenly aware of the significance of robust security measures in today's digital landscape. To this end, I not only harden systems effectively but also implement timely updates and patches to ensure their ongoing integrity. Finally, you can rest assured knowing that my commitment to network security will be reflected in the base image's shipping firewall policy; blocking all traffic barring the ports that you later open through iptables. Let's maximize your project's potential together!

@gattes

Hi there, I have over 10 years work experience with Linux and server management as well as creating custom ISOs/PXEs. Ping me and I'll help you out. Cheers!

@debianguy

Rather than delivering a one-off customized ISO, I would build a reproducible image generation framework that produces it. The ISO becomes a build artifact, making future updates, security patches and package changes straightforward without rebuilding everything manually. The solution will be based on Ubuntu Server with an automated build pipeline, integrating accel-ppp, PHP 8.4, FRR, OpenSSH, iptables, system hardening and a default deny firewall policy. The build process will generate a bootable ISO ready for USB or PXE deployment, together with the scripts and documentation required to reproduce it at any time. Before implementation, I would like to review a few technical details, including the Ubuntu release, kernel version, accel-ppp modules and the target hardware. For example, shipping every upstream network driver is achievable, but validating compatibility across all NIC vendors requires defining the hardware matrix to be supported. The same applies to the hardening profile and firewall policy, as these should match the server's intended role. Let's discuss the remaining technical details, define the project milestones and agree on the final scope and budget before we begin.

@Shrutibimpl

Hello, I can build your custom headless Ubuntu server installer ISO using Packer and subiquity cloud-init scripts. My plan is to build a minimal Ubuntu Server ISO that automates the installation process without any desktop environment or local console TTYs. I can compile accel-ppp with all core modules from source and install PHP 8.4 with common extensions. I can configure iptables as the primary packet filter disable nftables and pre-install the FRR routing suite for BGP and OSPF. I can secure OpenSSH with key-based authentication while disabling root login and masking unused systemd services. I can also include the full Linux kernel extra modules package to ensure Intel Broadcom and Mellanox network drivers load automatically across mixed hardware. In a past project I built custom automated Ubuntu ISO installer images for datacentre bare-metal servers featuring pre-compiled networking stacks and custom systemd security policies. 1) Which specific Ubuntu LTS release, such as 22.04 or 24.04, do you prefer as the base for this custom ISO image? 2) Should the ISO installation process be fully automated using Subiquity cloud-init answer files, or do you require interactive prompt steps for datacentre staff? 3) What default iptables rule set or initial ports should be opened by default upon first boot? Thanks, Bharat

@kamran2012

Hi there, I will deliver a hardened, headless Ubuntu ISO with accel-ppp (compiled with all standard modules), PHP 8.4, iptables as the sole packet filter (nftables masked), FRR ready for BGP/OSPF, and key-only OpenSSH. Console TTYs disabled, unused services masked, default-deny firewall policy baked in. The build recipe (Packer or live-build) will be fully repeatable so you regenerate the ISO any time you adjust packages or kernel settings. On a similar project, bundling broad NIC driver coverage (Intel, Broadcom, Mellanox) into the initramfs eliminated post-install surprises across mixed datacenter hardware. Questions: 1) Do you have a target Ubuntu base version (e.g., 24.04 LTS), or is the latest LTS acceptable? Looking forward to your response. Best regards, Kamran

@crystalhitesh

Hi, With 10+ years of Linux system administration experience, I can build a hardened Ubuntu server ISO with accel-ppp, PHP 8.4, FRR, OpenSSH, and iptables preconfigured. I’ll deliver a repeatable Live-build/Packer recipe, secure-by-default configuration, broad network driver support, and complete documentation. The final image will be production-ready, lightweight, and optimized for datacenter deployment with clean, maintainable automation.

@Web1devloper

As an expert with Linux and Ubuntu, I have an intimate understanding of the technologies required for your project. My 8 years’ experience in web and app development includes a strong Linux background, ensuring your objective of creating a purpose-built Ubuntu-based server image that works seamlessly straight away would be met beyond your expectations. Not only am I familiar with the core stack components you specified such as accel-ppp, PHP 8.4, iptables and FRR routing suite, but I also possess extensive knowledge in security hardening and firewall policies to ensure the utmost safety of your server image. This includes disabling console TTYs, greeters and graphical logins – effectively shutting down all unused services. Lastly, my skillset is complemented by my expertise in DevOps particularly Docker and CI/CD which could be valuable add-ons to your desired deliverables. I assure you, you won’t just receive an expectation-meeting ISO, but also a comprehensive step-by-step README to guide trouble-free build steps. Let's discuss further!

@ffulb

The hardest bit here is making sure accel-ppp compiles cleanly against the kernel you ship and doesn't break when hardware detection loads different NIC modules at boot. I'd pin a known-good kernel version, build accel-ppp as a DKMS package during the image creation phase, and test the ISO against VirtIO, Intel e1000, and Broadcom bnx2 in VMs before handing it over. I built a similar unattended Ubuntu server stack for an Australian client last year—KeyHelp, MariaDB, hardened SSH, all automated. That one's on ffulb.com. I'll use Packer with a preseed file to handle the unattended install, bake in your firewall defaults via a systemd unit that runs before network-online, and mask getty targets so no TTY login prompts appear. Can start whenever works.

@jayantkumar314

I can build a repeatable Ubuntu server ISO with accel-ppp, PHP 8.4, iptables, FRR, hardened OpenSSH, disabled local logins, and a default-deny firewall policy. I’ll provide the build recipe, tested bootable ISO, broad networking driver support, and a concise README covering deployment and future firewall changes.

@loxtic

Hello, i have considerable experience with linux sys admin/manageent. Have built multiple ISO, from scratch, across multiple linux versions. WIth custom installed packages/ firewalls rules etc. let me know further if interested.

@iimtpradeepdash

With over 7 years of experience and 575+ projects delivered, I am confident that I am the right fit for your project. Skilled in Linux and Ubuntu, I understand the nuances and complexities required to design a purpose-built server image. My experience in building custom MVPs, AI-native SaaS platforms, Mobile Apps, and ERP systems by indexing every flow before writing any code equips me with a unique perspective and a high level of attention to detail. What sets me apart is my commitment to quality and robustness. A 'one size fits all' approach is not something I stand by. I tailor solutions specific to the diverse needs of the hardware the server will run on - be it Intel or Broadcom or Mellanox cards. With this, you can be sure that every networking driver essential to your project will be loaded automatically without any hassle. My proficiency includes knowledge and experience in accel-ppp, PHP 8.4, FRR routing suite, OpenSSH, and iptables further bolstering my suitability for this project. Lastly, what distinguishes me is my client-centric approach which extends into transparent communication across timezones and involving clients at every step of the project. My commitment doesn't end with delivery - I provide documentation including a repeatable build script or Packer/Live-build recipe producing the bootable ISO, the ISO itself ready for USB or PXE deployment, and a quick README outlining build steps along with default credentials.

@alluankit01

Hi, I can create the custom Ubuntu-based install-only server ISO with accel-ppp, PHP 8.4, iptables, FRR, OpenSSH hardening, networking drivers, and a repeatable build process. The best solution is to build this with Packer/live-build so the ISO can be regenerated consistently, tested in VM, and then used for USB or PXE deployment by datacentre staff. I’ll keep it server-only with no desktop layer, no graphical login, masked unused services, key-only SSH, root login disabled, and a default-deny iptables policy. I’m comfortable with Ubuntu image building, Linux hardening, accel-ppp compilation, PHP extension setup, FRR/BGP/OSPF preparation, iptables/nftables configuration, OpenSSH security, kernel modules, driver inclusion, PXE/ISO testing, and clear deployment documentation. Deliverables include: * Repeatable build script/recipe * Bootable Ubuntu server ISO * accel-ppp compiled and configured * PHP 8.4 with extensions * iptables default firewall * FRR routing suite installed * SSH key-only hardening * Disabled TTY/unused services * Driver/module preparation * README with build and usage notes I’ll focus on a secure, clean, reproducible image ready for datacentre deployment. Best regards Ankit

@Hrolgar

Accel-ppp and FRR side by side tells me this box is doing PPPoE and BGP edge work, not just serving PHP, so the driver set baked into the ISO matters as much as the hardening once it lands on hardware you didn't pick. I'd build this as a live-build (or Packer, whichever fits your provisioning better) pipeline rather than a hand-hardened image: kernel and firmware pinned, a preseed for install-only mode with no greeter or console left on, iptables loaded as a default-deny table with FRR and accel-ppp punched through explicitly, and every unused systemd unit masked rather than disabled so nothing wakes up on a kernel update. SSH ships key-only from first boot, root login off, PHP 8.4 from a pinned repo rather than distro default. Output is the ISO plus the recipe itself, checked into a repo, so your team can rebuild an identical image in six months without me involved. M1: build pipeline scaffold, base Ubuntu image, install-only preseed, $215, 2 days. M2: hardening layer, SSH, default-deny iptables, service masking, $220, 1 day. M3: accel-ppp, FRR, PHP 8.4 integration, final ISO plus README, $215, 1 day. Is there a fixed list of NIC and RAID controllers this needs to boot on, or should the driver set stay broad and get narrowed per host after imaging?

@toqeer74

Hi, I can help you create a purpose-built Ubuntu-based server image designed for your data center needs. I have extensive experience in building secure server images with all required components pre-integrated, including accel-ppp, PHP 8.4, iptables, and FRR routing suite, along with the necessary security hardening. In a previous project, I built a similar image with strict firewall rules and ensured automatic driver loading for varied hardware, which led to a 100% uptime during deployment. I can deliver the bootable ISO, build scripts, and a quick README in 7 days for $[Price]. What are your specific requirements for the networking drivers?

@chikki95

Hello, i have considerable expweience with system admin/managemnet. especialyl linux. have deployed multiple images on various cloud providers as well as local deployment, of cusotm built linux images. let me know further if interested

@mahads31

Hey, I have experience building custom Ubuntu server images and can deliver a repeatable, production ready ISO with your complete networking stack, security hardening, and automated provisioning requirements. The build will include accel ppp, PHP 8.4, FRR, OpenSSH with key only authentication, iptables as the default firewall, disabled unnecessary services and TTY access, plus broad hardware driver support. You'll receive the ISO, reproducible build scripts, and clear documentation for deployment and future customization. Let's discuss the kernel version and any additional hardening preferences. Best Regards, Mahad

@Linkmez

Hi, I've read through your spec carefully. This is a well-defined Linux infrastructure build — exactly the kind of work I specialize in. Here's my understanding and approach: What you need: A minimal Ubuntu server ISO (no desktop, no local login, console TTYs disabled) with accel-ppp, PHP 8.4, iptables (nftables disabled), FRR, and OpenSSH key-only hardening — plus an opinionated default-deny firewall and broad network driver coverage. My Approach: 1. Build system: I'll use a Packer + cloud-init/preseed pipeline (or Live-build if you prefer) to produce a reproducible ISO. The recipe will be version-controlled and re-runnable. 2. Package integration: accel-ppp compiled from source with standard modules (PPP/IPoE/L2TP/PPTP/SNMP), PHP 8.4 from ondrej PPA with common extensions, FRR from official repos, iptables as default (nftables masked). 3. Hardening: Root login disabled, SSH key-auth only, console TTYs masked, unused services masked, default-deny firewall with explicit allow rules for SSH only. 4. Driver coverage: I'll ensure the kernel includes upstream drivers for Intel, Broadcom, and Mellanox NICs — standard Ubuntu server kernel covers most; I'll verify and add missing firmware packages. 5. Deliverables: Build script, bootable ISO, and a concise README covering build steps, default credentials, and firewall extension.

@hhanumanthappa

I would like to take up this project and work. I have experience in building custom OS using yocto and have experience on BSP development for embedded systems. I can include the packages for routing requirements but testing has to happen from your end,