Custom Home Server Build

[Phil Gr]

Hi
I know this has been asked a 1000 times before (i have searched) but i am looking for some current up to date advice on building a home server,

I have not built a PC for close to 10 years after making the jump to apple kit, so not really up to speed with the current PC hardware scene

I have a reasonable home network setup with a gigabit & wireless network with multiple Macs, iPads, iPhones, ATv and a Synology NAS

I have the following requirements

• File server (Large media collection, Photos, Work etc..)
• Central backup for home network machines
• Manage parental control for internet access for the kids
• Powerful enough to play with Virtualisation
• Expandable
• Quiet / Low Power - Will run 24/7 located in my Loft
• Run Headless

Now i realise i can purchase a HP Microserver that will accomplish the above but i am looking to specifically to do a custom build as i feel i will get some enjoyment / learning from the build & configuration process.

I currently have a Synology NAS with 6tb of usable space, which is running as my fileserver, i am planning on this becoming the backup location for the new machine

I also have a passing interest in virtualisation, its something that i have increasingly come into contact with in my working life

Recommendations for a machine spec or examples of other peoples builds very much welcome, i dont really have a budget in mind, but dont mind spending to get a reasonable future proof build.

Thanks in advance

 

[Phil Gr]

This is what im thinking so far

As this machine will be for learning and not just a straight forward file server, i am wanting to build in some extra power and flexibility to upgrade its capability in the future

I already have an old full size tower case with plenty of room for storage drives, and as this box is going in the loft out of sight cosmetics are not a priority at this time, so i am planning on re-using this case.

To keep the noise down i am going to need some advice on a PSU

For the hardware, so far i am thinking the following purchases

• PSU - ???
• Motherboard - Gigabyte Z77-DS3H
• CPU - i3-3220
• Mem - 2 x 8 gig Ram (leave 2 slots free for later upgrade - does the board need to be full populated ? )
• OS Drive - Crucial M4 - 64gig mSATA
• Storage Drives - 4 x 2tb WD Greens

I might look to try and pick-up a raid card off an auction site

One question i have is setting up the system to run headless, do i need a Gfx card to set-up and then remove it ?

Thanks for the help guys

PG