Home Network - Backup/Media Streaming.

aeT

aeT

aeT

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7 Jan 2008
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I'm looking to network up my house, with the idea of streaming media from a server to several locations, and also using the server as a backup solution for the computers located around the house.


Current setup is as follows

1st Floor Office

4 Port Buffalo Wireless Router

PC
PC
Network Laser Printer

All of the above are connected to the router via Cat5e

1st Floor Bedroom

4 Port Switch

Server
PC
HTPC
XBOX 360


In addition to this, I will be requiring to cable upstairs for a single HTPC, and downstairs for an HTPC/XBOX360, and possibly to a kitchen extension scheduled for early next year which will have a small dining area with a TV/HTPC.


So, what would you recommend regards how the network is set up?

  • Does the server need to be centrally connected to the router for efficieny?
  • Should I simply cable upstairs/downstairs via the router, then use a switch if necessary?
  • Will 100mb suffice, or am I going to need gigabit If I am streaming HD media?
 
If you're doing multiple HD streams, then you may run into problems using only 100meg, but given that any 100meg kit you buy (if any) won't be all that great a cost, a gigabit upgrade later wouldn't be out of the question.

I would connect essentials (ie server) to one point then everything else out in a star type configuration (you could connect server and say printer to the router then all 'services' are in one place and running extra switches off a single router port wouldn't be too much of a problem)
 
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