[ILUG] Out of control Linux Install Charges - And bandwith and everything IT related in this country,

[AJ McKee]

Hi all,

I recently had need to enquire on behalf of a client, if one of the
services provided by a Dublin based data centre was an install
service. The client needed Cent OS installed on a brand new Dell
server. Nothing special about it, some custom partition work, but
apart from that, nothing apart from a base operating system with
networking is required.

The quote I can't reveal, however I can say is was only a few
multiples of 10 euro short of 1000  Euro.

Now maybe I am out of touch with data centres and their operations. Or
maybe Linux installers have taken a step backward (This I kow to be
untrue, I have installed it countless times), but I cannot see the
justification for such an extreme charge. I won't name the
organisation involved, they are entitled to charge as they like,
however I can't be but bemused at how much this could have cost a
client.

Most of us on this list work in the industry. We know we are being
charged extreme fees for bandwidth, extreme fees for colocation,
however now a basic service such as an install, is destined to cost
close to 1000 Euro.

Now I can see business having to charge what they are incurring in
order to cover their costs, but really, has it gotten this bad in the
country that the potential exists for a client, and independant
company, not involved in the IT industry apart from having their web
site, can be charged almost 1000 euro for a simple task.

I can name a few hosters, data centre providers around the world, whom
I've had business dealings with. However none have ever attempted to
charge for this.

So I am wondering, a quick straw poll here, how many of you here in
your job or whatever, are paying such charges? Do you think they can
be justified and are you happy in paying for them? Do you have any
viable alternatives for small businesses to investigate? Or care to
share your experiences with me?

I am just stunned at how outrages pricing has gotten.

Cheers
AJ