Home server ?

[24c]

I know nothing about servers.......

I have a desk top and a lap top (for now) in my home network. I'd like to add a server so I can put the data files on it, access them from both computers, and also use for storage.

I don't need more than 5/600GB

I don't know if I should buy a server, saw some small ones for about 200 on Newegg, or build one. I have the HDs, think I'd like to have 2 in RAID 1 for safety, and a TechNet 'script for the software.

Any tips to get me started in the right direction appreciated.

 

[pparks1]

Any interest in learning a little bit of Linux? setting up a Linux box is 100% free, getting samba going is easy and it shares files beautifully. I would be more than happy in assisting you with the setup of the above.

In all honest, just an old box with a couple of hard drives should be just fine. It's what I have have used for my home server for a number of years.

 

[24c]

Thanks pparks1 for the suggestion. I have no problem learning about Linux, I have a pair of HDs, what I don't have is an "old box" to use. I'm going to have to buy something.

Maybe I can find an inexpensive computer and use it as the server.

More research, I like that. Thanks again.

 

[PooMan UK]

If it's only files you want to share, another cheaper option and maybe easier to setup might be a Network HDD. There's loads on the market eg. Iomega home soloutions You get wired and wireless versions which just plug into your existing network allowing you to share files etc.

 

[24c]

If it's only files you want to share, another cheaper option and maybe easier to setup might be a Network HDD. There's loads on the market eg. Iomega home soloutions You get wired and wireless versions which just plug into your existing network allowing you to share files etc.

The ix2-200 looks about right. There's no OS with these, just plug into network, direct machine to it for data?

Thank you for the reply - much appreciated.

 

[24c]

I let a friend use my Dell XPS Gen 5 machine, I'm getting it back today - server problem solved - I think.

Dell XPS Gen 5 - Pentium 4 3.8 GHz processor, 8 GB DDR2 Ram. OS is Win7x64 Home Premium, Pro, or Ultimate, I can't recall. It has 2 WD 74 GB Raptors, plus a 300 GB Maxtor HD, and a DVD burner.

If I hook it up to the network, via ethernet cable, will I be able to direct the desktop and laptop to the Documents folder to share/modify files. When I put files in the Documnets folder on the desktop, I cannot modify/save them from the laptop, only open them.

Expensive part done - - now for the set up part.

ETA - Would I be better off installing a Server OS? I have access to them through TechNet, any idea which OS best for me?

 

[kodi]

Windows home server V1 (not Vail) will be perfect for you it very simple and straightforward to set up and run.
It can backup you Pc's and be used for shared storage.
If you go ahead with it have a look at a free addon called Lights out it hibernates the server when all of the clients are switched off saving energy.

 

[24c]

Thanks Kodi, I have the OS and will install it.

Will probalby be back with more questions too.

 

[24c]

Installed WHS, booted to BSOD - STOP:0x0000007B.

Burned another ISO DVD - installed same thing
Installed from a USB - same results
D/L another WHS file from TechNet - same results.

I was able to install Windowsn 7 w/o issue and also Server 2008 R2 Standard.

What am I missing with the WHS install?

ETA
d/l a 30 day trial of WHS, installed - same BSOD.
my machine doesn't seem to like WHS, will reinstall Server 2008 R2
and learn that....................

 

[kegobeer]

WHS doesn't like AHCI. It's probably enabled in the BIOS. Once you disable it you will be able to install WHS.

 

[24c]

WHS doesn't like AHCI. It's probably enabled in the BIOS. Once you disable it you will be able to install WHS.

Correct - I ended up going with Windows Server 2008 R2 - WHS presented too many issues for me.