How to I create a server that will let me run and compile programs?

Answer 1

I am not sure I understand your question.
If you want a repository of programs written by you, I guess, a simple PC should be fine, suitably loaded with all relevant compilers and maybe IDEs.
I am still to meet a person who wrote so much code that they ran out space on a desktop.

But if you are hardpressed for genuine compilers or IDEs, use a PC loaded with a Linux distribution, and at install time, select all software that you think you will need. Whatever, you still dont get, say java etc, just download them for free.

You should be fine!