Cost estimate shelter-based security system

Shelter server (Ubuntu 22.04)

• Refurbished desktop or mini PC

  • Specs: ≥8 GB RAM, 4+ CPU cores, 100+ GB SSD
  • Cost: €350–€585

• Optional upgrades:

  • RAM (16 GB total): +€60
  • SSD (500 GB): +€70

Subtotal hardware: €350–€585 (add €130 for upgrades)

Networking & storage

• Unmanaged switch (8‑port): €35
• Cabling and Wi‑Fi AP: €25
• USB HDD (1 TB): €60

Subtotal networking: €120

Optional PiRogue scanner (Raspberry Pi)

• Raspberry Pi 4 (4 GB kit): €95
• Wi‑Fi USB adapter / extras: €25

Subtotal PiRogue: €120

Software & tools (free)

• Ubuntu, Wazuh, Elasticsearch, Termux, adb, OpenSSH, idevice tools — €0

Labour & setup

• If using paid staff (~€45/hour): Setup & testing (12 hours): €540
• If volunteer-based: €0

Maintenance & buffer

• Yearly hardware/software buffer: €120
• Annual staff time (~10 hours): €450
• Contingency (10%): ~€65–€160

Summary for year 1

Year 2+ running costs (estimated)

Notes

• Minimum cost (~€590) assumes volunteer time and donated equipment.
• Full-featured cost (~€1,655) includes upgrades, PiRogue, and staff time.
• Internet access, physical locks, and power costs are not included.
• If you’re setting up multiple sites, shared services (like a central SIEM) could reduce the per-site cost significantly.