If you want to set up data exchange between several computers in your home or office, you can also consider using a file server. A file server is a computer connected to a public network with the ability to freely transfer files within it. How do you create it?
It is necessary
- - several computers;
- - 60-80 GB hard drive;
- - Ethernet card;
- - 256-512 MB of RAM.
Instructions
Step 1
Determine the number of users who can access the server at the same time. If there are 10 or fewer, the file server can be built on relatively modest hardware; if more, then the connection to the server should not be serial, but parallel. And you need to consider using a more powerful computer with more RAM for better performance.
Step 2
Select the operating system for the server. This often depends on preference and the level of comfort required. Linux or another operating system like UNIX can run on modest hardware with high performance if you don't install a graphical interface.
Step 3
Find a hard drive with file sharing capabilities. If most of the files that will be used by the server are spreadsheets or text documents, then a 60 or 80 gigabyte hard drive will suffice since these file types are relatively small. However, if you are planning to exchange music, video or large databases, then choose a disk with several hundred gigabytes.
Step 4
Buy a new or used computer, or build your own. If you plan to use Linux or a similar system, then the server will require computers with less performance and fewer. Supported hardware can also be purchased. The main thing here will be the presence of an Ethernet card for connecting to a home or office network.
Step 5
Install additional memory if required. Smaller file servers perform well with 256 megabytes of RAM, while higher performance will require 512 megabytes or more. More users means more RAM.
Step 6
Configure the server in the Control Panel, enable access to files and printers using administrative tools.
