Using a desktop for file storage

Visitors can check out the Forum FAQ by clicking this link. You have to register before you can post: click the REGISTER link above to proceed. To start viewing messages, select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below. View our Forum Privacy Policy.
Want to receive the latest contracting news and advice straight to your inbox? Sign up to the ContractorUK newsletter here. Every sign up will also be entered into a draw to WIN £100 Amazon vouchers!

You are not logged in or you do not have permission to access this page. This could be due to one of several reasons:

You are not logged in. If you are already registered, fill in the form below to log in, or follow the "Sign Up" link to register a new account.
You may not have sufficient privileges to access this page. Are you trying to edit someone else's post, access administrative features or some other privileged system?
If you are trying to post, the administrator may have disabled your account, or it may be awaiting activation.

portseven replied

21 February 2007, 17:14
Originally posted by cottonfoo

I'd just install debian and samba, no gui/funny stuff using resource unnecessarily so has minimal hardware requirements.

Debian, yes good idea. Etch is nearly out too
Leave a comment:
TheFaQQer replied

21 February 2007, 16:23
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
Leave a comment:
Paddy replied

21 February 2007, 14:19
Originally posted by cottonfoo

I'd just install debian and samba, no gui/funny stuff using resource unnecessarily so has minimal hardware requirements.

Great idea, like the music too.
Leave a comment:
cottonfoo replied

21 February 2007, 12:45
I'd just install debian and samba, no gui/funny stuff using resource unnecessarily so has minimal hardware requirements.
Leave a comment:
AtW Super poster replied

21 February 2007, 12:39
Originally posted by Mustang

Thanks for the feedback Paddy. Would the same be true even if I were to upgrade the desktop I choose to Windows XP?

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)

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
Leave a comment:
Mustang replied

21 February 2007, 09:18
Thanks for the feedback Paddy. Would the same be true even if I were to upgrade the desktop I choose to Windows XP?
Leave a comment:
Paddy replied

20 February 2007, 21:26
Originally posted by Mustang

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.....!!

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
Leave a comment:
Mustang replied

20 February 2007, 17:17
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......
Leave a comment:
portseven replied

20 February 2007, 17:15
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.
Leave a comment:
Sockpuppet replied

20 February 2007, 16:44
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.
Leave a comment:
Spacecadet replied

20 February 2007, 12:59
Originally posted by Mustang

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!!

Probably the easiest solution, only going to be a very small number of local users so why try harder?
Leave a comment:
Mustang started a topic Using a desktop for file storage

20 February 2007, 12:02
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.....!!

TIA
Tags: None