Server device versus NAS device

[sparkle999]

Here's a question - what do you think the main merits are of building a server for home use versus buying a NAS device?

I know, it depends on your requirements... Personally I am leaning towards building a small server to centralise all the user files in my family, centralise email, photos, sort out backups, stream FLAC to the various squeezeboxes round the house (using slimserver), also ftp. Majority if not all of these functions can be done by NAS. If I ever get the time, would like to tinker with building some apps so a database server could be handy. Also would be nice if family members could remotely log into the server from work to grab their files. Am assuming something running windows server, largely ignorant of linux, wasn't really intending to have a big debate about windows v linux or anything

Are there any cool things people are using their server for that a NAS can't do?!

Cheers
sp.

 

[sparkle999]

Well I currently have my server running ALL torrents for the house, so that nobody is stealing bandwidth, if someone wants something, they can just drag and drop a file onto the server and it adds it to the que.

I am also running a TeamSpeak server, so that people in the house can easily chat whilst ingame if a game doesn't have VOIP.

Good idea re: torrents (*runs off and adds to list of requirements*)
Teamspeak server -you must have a huuuge house (I won't add that to my list - two of our PCs sit side by side, can just imagine conversing with the missus over a mic ) Actually that could have some benefits I could turn the OFF button on the mic...

 

[sparkle999]

well lets see

My synology in standard trim can host my website, feed me files, be an itunes server, an ftp server (main use) and a download station (ie drag files to download on to it) for both normal and torrent files.

If I was to go hacking I could add email server, slimserver, additional web/ftp options, twonkyvision etc (loads on the synology forum)

My server is generally a central depositary for my files and part of a mini renderfarm, its only on when its needed as its a tad more power hungry (300W+ versus 50W )

What?!! You have a NAS device *AND* a server!! Awesome, that knocks these petty deliberations for six, just get both

Point well made about about power, having just lectured the kids on leaving lights on all round the house it might be a bit hypocritical of me to slap an additional 300W of load into the equation... But then I could always point at you, 'cos you'll be drawing 350W

 

[sparkle999]

Thanks all, it's been really helpful to understand what folk are using their servers/NAS devices for, certainly enough for me to decide that, on balance, a decent NAS device is probably going to be sufficient for my requirements.

BTW Misan, that looks like one BIG server!

All the best
Sp.