How cheaply can I make a simple NAS for?

Goose · 27 Jul 2015 at 15:55

I've never made a NAS or any type of server but i'd like to make one for storing all media files so that i can finally get rid of my HDD in my main rig and be SSD only. I'd want to be able to stream the media from it to my Amazon FireTV and then also just use it as backups and file sharing between the computers in my home.

It only needs to be tiny wee thing with the 1tb HDD from current rig, upgrading in the future if i feel the need. I'd likely put in the front room so i can connect it to the FireTV by ethernet so having it as silent as possible would be a big plus as its quite a small room.

Thanks

Steveocee · 27 Jul 2015 at 15:58

Go into MM and have a look for a HP micro server, that would be the most cost effective way of doing what you want whilst having expansion room and very low power draw.

You can pick your OS but I'd recommend either freenas, xpenology or for a "proper" OS Ubuntu server

Goose · 27 Jul 2015 at 16:02

Thanks.

One thing i forgot to mention is that if it goes in the front room it would have to connect to the network wirelessly as the router is in the next room and cant be moved. Does that make a difference for a NAS aside from the obvious fluctuations in signal quality?

Craig321 · 27 Jul 2015 at 16:05

Another vote for HP micro server.

As far as wireless goes, I'm not sure many NAS' are wireless. You can put a wireless card in the HP micro server though

Even new, they're cheap considering the performance you get.

Steveocee · 27 Jul 2015 at 17:02

I would look into trying to get a cable run. A NAS over wireless to wireless clients brings fear to my heart.

Goose · 27 Jul 2015 at 17:17

It'd have to homeplugs in that case, running cable just isn't feasible.

StevieP · 27 Jul 2015 at 17:29

Does the Fire TV have wireless?

Personally I'd look to put whatever solution you come up with next to the router and connected via ethernet and then connect whatever devices you need wirelessly or via homeplugs! (this will also mean a small amount of noise won't affect your viewing as it will be in a different room!)

You can pick up a relatively cheap NAS these days - although having had both a Buffalo and a Synology I can tell you it's worth paying the extra for the faster UI (the Buffalo NAS was downright painful to use whereas the Synology is a joy!)

I'm sure there are cheaper ways (Pi 2, Microserver etc) but from the sounds of it your needs are pretty simple and in my experience a dedicated NAS is the simplest solution!