I run apache, mysql, ruby, php all on my desktop for development
purposes but I have a server for my live stuff.

The desktop has - well - a desktop whereas your server might not. Mine
does just because Im not the best at using the cmd line yet.

I set up a server for a school last semester. I put the gnome desktop on
so it would be easier for the local admin to do things. The server
version doesnt have it by default (correct me if Im wrong here) as its
not needed for a server.