Cost estimate shelter-based security system
Back of an envelope.
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
Category | Low (Volunteer) | High (Paid + Extras) |
---|---|---|
Server hardware | €350 | €715 |
Networking & storage | €120 | €120 |
PiRogue (optional) | €0 | €330 |
Software | €0 | €0 |
Setup labour | €0 | €540 |
Maintenance & buffer | €120 | €160 |
Total (approx) | €590 | €1,865 |
Year 2+ running costs (estimated)
Item | Annual cost |
---|---|
Hardware buffer | €120 |
Paid support time | €450 |
Total per year | €570 |
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.