I recently converted an old PC into a home server.  There is a good article over on Life Hacker showcasing the best home server software.  I chose Ubuntu Server Edition for my setup.  I now backup my important data on the server and share files on my home network.  I’ve been thinking lately that I need to use my home server to be more productive with my day to day activities.  I’d like to create ways to make my personal life and my development work more automated.  I like the idea of having an FTP server to access my files remotely.  It makes sense to setup a version control system like Subversion to create restore points for all my data.  Maybe I should host all my pictures on the server and share with friends and family?  What can I do to automate tasks in a way that makes myself more productive?

If you know of any useful ways to use a home server let me know in the comments.