MineOS+

MineOS+ is a Linux distribution aimed at creating the smallest possible environment for a Minecraft server to run, retaining all Minecraft customizability and functionality while increasing usability. It is primarily designed at being run within a virtual environment (such as Virtualbox/VMWare) though it can be installed directly as the host OS of a computer as well. It is a fork of the Tiny Core Linux project 'microcore'.

How to Install MineOS+
Download the official server ISO and follow the directions on the home page.

How to customize MineOS+
The community has created numerous tutorials to help in assisting the common processes of importing worlds, utilizing RAMDISKs and moderating the server. Additionally, MineOS+ can be modified like any other Linux distro; the most accurate information on adding components to MineOS+ can be found at the tinycorelinux website.

Connectivity and security
MineOS+ employs SSH, and SCP (ftp-like file transfer) over SSH. This permits safe and manageable access to all files on a server, easily edited and updated through SCP browsers such as WinSCP and Filezilla.

iptables is used for firewalling protection, openings available only for secured/required ports, such as 22 (SSH), 80 (generated maps to end-user), 8080 (web admin) and 25565 (minecraft), though these may be modified/added/removed as desired with ease.

Links

 * MineOS+ Website
 * MineOS+ Forum
 * MIneOS+ Wiki