Using a desktop for file storage

**Spacecadet** · 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?

**Sockpuppet** · 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.

**portseven** · 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.

**Mustang** · 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......

**Paddy** · 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

**Mustang** · 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?

**AtW Super poster** · 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

**cottonfoo** · 21 February 2007, 12:45

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

**Paddy** · 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.

Using a desktop for file storage