How to Install a Debian 10 (Buster) Minimal Server

Debian 10 (Buster) is a reliable and secure server operating system known for its stability, security, and open-source nature. A minimal server installation provides a stripped-down version without graphical interface or unnecessary software, making it ideal for custom server configurations tailored to specific needs.

Before proceeding, note that installing a Debian 10 minimal server requires basic Linux command-line knowledge. If you're new to Linux, consider starting with a desktop version like Debian 10 GNOME before moving to the minimal installation.

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of Linux command line

• USB drive with at least 4GB capacity

• Target server hardware with network connectivity

• Administrative access to server BIOS/UEFI

Step 1: Download Debian 10 Minimal Server ISO

Download the Debian 10 netinstall ISO from the official website:

https://www.debian.org/distrib/netinst

Select the appropriate architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) for your server hardware.

Step 2: Create Bootable USB Drive

Create a bootable USB drive using tools like Rufus (Windows) or Etcher (cross-platform):

Using Rufus on Windows

• Insert USB drive and launch Rufus

• Select your USB device from the dropdown

• Click SELECT and choose the downloaded Debian ISO

• Keep default settings and click START

• Wait for the process to complete (2-5 minutes)

Step 3: Configure Boot Order

Access your server's BIOS/UEFI settings to boot from USB:

• Power on server and press the BIOS key (F2, F10, F12, or DEL)

• Navigate to the Boot tab

• Move USB drive to top of boot priority list

• Save changes and exit

Step 4: Install Debian 10 Minimal Server

Follow the installation wizard after booting from USB:

Installation Process

The installer will copy files and configure the system automatically. This process takes 10-20 minutes depending on hardware speed.

Step 5: Initial Server Configuration

After reboot, log in as root and perform essential configuration tasks:

System Updates

Update package lists and upgrade installed packages:

apt-get update && apt-get upgrade -y

Install Essential Packages

Install commonly needed packages for server administration:

apt-get install sudo vim wget curl htop net-tools

Configure Firewall

Enable and configure UFW firewall:

ufw enable
ufw allow ssh
ufw allow 22/tcp

SSH Configuration

Edit SSH configuration for secure remote access:

nano /etc/ssh/sshd_config

Modify key settings for security:

PermitRootLogin no
PasswordAuthentication yes
Port 22

Restart SSH service to apply changes:

systemctl restart ssh
systemctl enable ssh

Post-Installation Best Practices

• Create a non-root user account with sudo privileges

• Configure automatic security updates

• Set up proper backup procedures

• Monitor system logs regularly

• Install only necessary packages to maintain minimal footprint

Conclusion

Installing Debian 10 minimal server provides a stable, secure foundation for custom server deployments. The minimal installation approach ensures optimal resource utilization and reduces attack surface. Regular system updates and proper security configuration are essential for maintaining a robust server environment.