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

CategoryLow (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)

ItemAnnual 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.