Originally posted by cottonfoo
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Reply to: Using a desktop for file storage
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Previously on "Using a desktop for file storage"
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Have a look at FreeNAS - it's a cut down version of Linux, I think. It's designed as a fileserver though and by all accounts is easy to set up. Then just map network drives from the laptops to it.
I have a PC at home with just a shared drive on it (amongst other things) that is permanently on for file sharing. Not the most energy efficient solution, but I tried a Netgear SC101 and found it an absolute nightmare and completely unreliable to work with.
HTH,
Faqqer
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Great idea, like the music too.Originally posted by cottonfooI'd just install debian and samba, no gui/funny stuff using resource unnecessarily so has minimal hardware requirements.
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I'd just install debian and samba, no gui/funny stuff using resource unnecessarily so has minimal hardware requirements.
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Wet finger in the air: If it's > 1gH and > 256Mb RAM it should be OK with XP. However for security on the file system I would suggest Win2003. (Not W2K)Originally posted by MustangThanks for the feedback Paddy. Would the same be true even if I were to upgrade the desktop I choose to Windows XP?
You can also use your old laptops and PC for faxes and webcams (security for home) and use cheap software to ftp the cam pics to a website. This way you can check your home security when you are away from home
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Thanks for the feedback Paddy. Would the same be true even if I were to upgrade the desktop I choose to Windows XP?
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Originally posted by MustangI have two desktops that I want to get rid of. However, I was thinking of keeping one and having it connected to the network at home to use for file storage. There are 2 laptops on the network used by myself and the Co Secretary (Mrs Mustang). We can use the 'server' for common files (e.g. pics) important docs.
Both desktops have network cards, both are running old Windows versions (W98). Both laptops are running Windows XP.
Has anyone, that has done this sort of thing, any advice?
Is it a case of just connecting the desktop to the office network and then sharing the hard drive? Please could someone point me in the right direction!!
All assistance greatfully received.....!!
TIA
You will have great problems with connectivity, compatibility, file security etc. Dot bother with the old W98 stuff. Buy a network enabled hard disk storage unit. £100 to £400
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Can you recommend a type and/or supplier?
I did a search on google and came up with one site. The ones there ranged from £120 for a 250Gb up to £450 for 1Tb. The 250Gb sounds sufficient and affordable but I could probably do the desktop solution for "free" - however my time is priceless!!
It also leaves with 2 desktops on my hand rather than 1......
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You could buy a Linksys NSLU2 and stick one of the open firmwares on it, unslug or openslug.
See -> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NSLU2.
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I'd buy a small NAS box as it will be cheaper when electric is considered.
All you do it right click on drive, properties, sharing.
Personally I would stick FreeNas on it if you are using a computer as its a lot better than Windows and less of a hassle.
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Probably the easiest solution, only going to be a very small number of local users so why try harder?Originally posted by MustangIs it a case of just connecting the desktop to the office network and then sharing the hard drive? Please could someone point me in the right direction!!
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Using a desktop for file storage
I have two desktops that I want to get rid of. However, I was thinking of keeping one and having it connected to the network at home to use for file storage. There are 2 laptops on the network used by myself and the Co Secretary (Mrs Mustang). We can use the 'server' for common files (e.g. pics) important docs.
Both desktops have network cards, both are running old Windows versions (W98). Both laptops are running Windows XP.
Has anyone, that has done this sort of thing, any advice?
Is it a case of just connecting the desktop to the office network and then sharing the hard drive? Please could someone point me in the right direction!!
All assistance greatfully received.....!!
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