As far as I know, the majority of the IP cameras, as those shown in this virtual shop, starting from $ 945.00 Mexican Pesos (almost 100 US Dollars), and this D-Link DC-900 (the majority of them tested by me) resolves the motion detection, scheduled recording and remote control by itself (there are just a few which features 360° movement, remote controlled).
What I mean: All that you need is a good FTP Server where to drop the images/videos, which can also be Linux Based.
How to reach your cameras from outside is as easy as getting a Dynamic Domain Name Service and to use it in your modem/router or, if you have fixed IP then you don't have a problem, you will also be in need to route the specific ports to the cameras and make the cameras respond to the petitions of a specific port.
Everything can be monitored/controlled via web browser, like in this example of my security system which is embedding 3 cameras (1 of them remote controlled) in a single web page. (blurred where needed for privacy).
The remote controlled camera is the one shown here, with two-way audio (yes, you can speak to people close to the camera), wireless and infra-red night vision. (Sorry, I don't sell these cameras but I purchased over there in Mexico City.)
So, I would suggest you to look for a specific camera that fits your needs and if your intentions are to keep a backup of your videos in a server, look for FTP server guides here or even in the net.
Good luck!
Edit:
Original DCS-900 Camera's Web Based Application
Welcome to ask Ubuntu! Just as a comment, I think that your question is confusing. You might want to consider being a bit more specific as to what you want. I can't tell if you are asking if Ubuntu server is secure, or how it runs, or how to get a Minecraft server running, or what people recommend for such a server, or if any one knows of a guide,etc. You will get more answers to your questions if they are short and direct :)
Now I have no experience with servers, but I found what seems to look like a tutorial as to how to setup a Minecraft Server with Ubuntu. I'm sure you have the experience to understand it: https://github.com/endofzero/Minecraft-Sheller
I found this link in someone else question on Ask Ubuntu. Maybe you could try messaging those users about setting up a Minecraft Server, they seem very experienced: Interact with Minecraft Server
I see what you mean now :) I assume trying to setup a Ubuntu server for the first time will lead to some begginer mistakes. But that's how you learn, trying! Maybe start with the basics. Here is the official Ubuntu server guide https://help.ubuntu.com/12.04/serverguide/index.html It starts with the very basics, leading up to more advanced task. I suggest you setup a test server to toy around with, that way no damage can be caused. So make some coffee, sit back and enjoy a good read of the guide:p
Best Answer
I don't know of any official ubuntu server hardening document, but hopefully the following will give you a good starting point:
NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) publishes guidelines on how to secure *nix systems. This is what the big boys use as a starting point (DOD, Army, Etc.).
Also check out this SANS institute paper. This list is also a good rule of thumb.
You can use tools like Nessus, OpenVAS, and other vulnerability scanners to give you an idea of what ports and services need to be shut down, as well.
The National Vulernability Database is a good site to cross reference your software configuration against, as well.
If you are trying for compliance with ISO 27001, Then ISO should have documentation and checklist for this sort of thing (although it's a B*tch to look through).
Sorry if this is too general, I hope it helps.