Home Network Server Intranet?

[Bituser]

Hi,
I recently Stumbled across this article when I was browsing the internet:
Build your own NAS using FreeNAS | geekyprojects.com
I was thinking about taking this to the next level. I realized that I have a couple of old computers I could do this too, but first I wanted to ask a few questions.

Here is the kinda thing I was thinking of:

Server using old computer with RAID array connects to router which all computers in house connect too.

Current computers:
Computer 1 - Hardwired to router
Laptop - Uses Wifi

Is it possible to setup an old computer to have a RAID array (which from my understanding kinda connects HDD's together using an addon to the motherboard, or something along those lines) that is hardwired into the router allowing anyone who connects to our home network to access files on the Server? Also, is it possible to create a home website, so a website is stored on the server and is then added as the homepage on whatever computer, so it shows links to different websites etc (I was thinking XAMPP). Then if we want to backup our computer when can back them up to our home server.

Can anyone think of something along those lines? Does anyone have something like that setup in their house?

Thanks,
Sam

 

[BCXtreme]

I think want you want to do is possible, if maybe a little complicated. Tell me, this "old computer" that you want to use as a local server ... what OS is it running?

 

[pparks1]

A system like FreeNAS is an OS which you install (it's Linux based), which allows you to setup a storage device on your network that you more or less manage through a webpage. This isn't exactly ideal if you also want to run a webserver and such from the same machine. You would be better off using a Linux distro (like Ubuntu or CentOS) and just setting it up to provide both storage and a web server.

RAID isn't the only way to string together hard drives. With Linux, you can also use LVM..which is all done via software. It doesn't provide the performance or the redundancy that RAID can provide...but for file storage that often isn't necessary (of course, you better back anything up).


Yes, I run a file server in my house. It provides storage space for 1) internet downloads 2). music 3) data 4) pictures. Everything important is saved to the server and the server is backed up regularly. Thus, my workstations aren't important at all...and I can take down my workstation and it doesn't matter that it's offline since the important files are still available on the server.

 

[c59]

I never thought of myself a a MS fanboy but ... MS has windows home server, it's not free but they do offer a 30 day trial. I don't have a need so I haven't tried it but reviews and mentions on forums have been favorable.

Based on what you mentioned in your post it may have the features you are looking for in an easy to use package.

A link to one discussion here :http://www.sevenforums.com/news/89100-windows-home-server-now-69-a.html

more from Microsoft
and information about the trial offer