OK since i've been put into the situation, i wanted to let you guy know my method of leaving a server running without you there. first, make sure noone on the server has the shutdown/restart commands.
Now to get the appropriate Firewall protection. check out:
Tech product reviews for cell phones, computers, MP3 players - CNET
There you'll find all the software you'll need, now pick a firewall and virus scanner.
Put your firewall protection for internet zone at the maximum, the trusted zone ad medium, and make exceptions for each database admin.
Now get Ecko tools, it can be found in some repacks such as JulianX, make sure server isn't on, and now turn on ecko tools.hit "close on stop" then "auto start". server should start up. what you did is turn on server, and restarter, so if it crashes it will turn on again.
Now set your antivirus to scan once daily, or every two days.
Hide your repack within a hard to reach branch inside your computer and rename it. don't leave a hint on the surface of where your server is, preferably write down the treepath.
Also! If you have a router, forward ports, or people cant connect, if you don't, then you don't have to forward ports, but a router is very handy in computer protection.
Once the above are completed it is GENERALLY safe to leave your server alone a few days, if you need to go on business trip, going to be grounded, on vacation, working hard at school ect.
This is basically it. it isn't that hard but just thought Id provide a little guide for it, for those of use who cant be constantly watching server, it also helps to have a trusted admin or a few to watch ingame.