I'm a sysadmin noob, and would like to learn about linux admin by setting up a VPS with some easy services. I'd like to learn from the perspective of hands-on doing. Along the way, I'd like to emphasize learning about privacy and security, all open-source.
Are these services a good place to start: caldav, carddav, SFTP, email server? Any others you can suggest?
A friend recommended an online course would be helpful. Does anyone have experience with Free Technology Acadamy? I don't need anything fancy, but I'm starting from 0. Although "google is my friend", I probably need a bit more than google to get started.
My professional background is in design, but I loved programming in Basic when I was a kid (C-64!). I'm an ultra-nerd at heart, so I don't imagine this will be out of my reach.
edit: added "S" to FTP
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