Help spec me a server OS (for noob)

tankskun · 4 Nov 2010 at 00:29

Im new to server builds and basically just want one to store my data & torrents 24/7 and be able to control through VNC when im not at home.

I heard windows 7 has built in server? does this have good security? what are my best options :confused:

rixarena · 4 Nov 2010 at 00:32

what spec machine are you using this on?

Regards Sam

imb4tman · 4 Nov 2010 at 00:33

There are many options but the main ones I can think of off the top of my head are Windows Home Server, one of the Linux distros (Ubuntu Server) or something simple like Freenas.

tankskun · 4 Nov 2010 at 00:44

rixarena said:
what spec machine are you using this on?

Regards Sam

Lian Li Q07
Asus Mini itx
AM3 Athlon X3 405e
3gb Sodimm DDR3
OCZ 30gb Vertex (for server)
500gb 2.5" WD black for Data
OCZ 500w (overkill i know)

imb4tman said:
There are many options but the main ones I can think of off the top of my head are Windows Home Server, one of the Linux distros (Ubuntu Server) or something simple like Freenas.

I like the idea of Windows Home Server because Im not familiar with linux or freenas. Are they easy to setup, Also any good links of setup guides? thanks

rixarena · 4 Nov 2010 at 01:10

what is it you want to do with the server? It might just be easier to use XP or 7 and just play around with the firewall etc, theres not really a need to use a server OS if your not familure with it or dont need it.

Regards Sam

tankskun · 4 Nov 2010 at 22:35

I guess will try windows 7, just need to access my data when Im at work and maybe some torrent use also. cheers!

SiriusB · 4 Nov 2010 at 22:45

If it is just documents/pictures you need access to, why not use DropBox? Any OS will run BitTorrent et al. You can use Remote Desktop [if it is Windows 7 Pro or above], TeamViewer or LogMeIn to control your PC over the Internet.

tankskun · 5 Nov 2010 at 00:01

Yes documents/pictures mainly. Im going to defintely take a look at dropbox. Also tryout remote desktop as already have W7 Ultimate already setup. Thanks for the tips.

SiriusB · 5 Nov 2010 at 00:18

You will need to forward a port on your Router to allow Remote Desktop to work over the Internet. Plenty of info on the Internet. You will also need a static IP address or use something like Dynamic DNS.

If that isn't possible, or you can't be arsed, then take a look at LogMeIn and TeamViewer. Both are free and work fine with dynamic IP addresses and the like. My personal choice is LogMeIn.

ThorpedoUK · 5 Nov 2010 at 00:49

Try this, you can connect and it will be a secure (encrypted) connection:

http://www.home-network-help.com/pptp-vpn-server.html

Atom · 5 Nov 2010 at 01:28

Give WHS Vail a go.

m4cc45 · 5 Nov 2010 at 07:15

Server is pointless. Windows 7 and Logmein free would be by far the easiest and you can remote control from a web browser then - no need to mess with the firewall at all.

M.