Well, I've never run an IT server and have no idea how, but I do know you'll need a host that makes your server available for other people to play on. You'll also probably want custom maps, items, models, quests, etc. Something I know nothing about how to do haha Honestly, the best thing I've found regarding to your question is this:
http://www.kitopen.com/ (http://www.kitopen.com/)
They've got tons of tutorials, hosts offering their services, source codes, models, etc. I'd think there's tons on this site to help someone out in making their first IT server. Hopefully you can get something out of it, and good luck with your project ^-^