Software free ethernet storage?

[ovia]

Hi all,

I have been asked a question and am looking to you helpful people for some advice.

What I am looking for is a Hard drive that can be connected to a home network via a ethernet connection through a router. Now the catch is it needs to be secure to prevent unauthoriosed access but without having to install software onto each PC to be connected to it.

What I have found so far is as follows:

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HD-014-LC&groupid=701&catid=14&subcat=707

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HD-015-BT&groupid=701&catid=14&subcat=707 (obviously needs a HDD installed)

But I am unsure as to if this actually does what I am looking for without software installation.

What are your suggestions?

Thanks

 

[!bluetonic!]

G'Afternoon.

I use a Linksys NSLU2. It is also known as a 'slug'. Google it for more info.

Try http://www.nslu2-linux.org/

It has a fast ethernet port and 2 x USB 2.0 ports. You choose the size of HDD to connect to it.

You can connect to it witout installing any software on the remote PCs.

If you tinker with it a bit and use a custom firmware you can run a cut down version of Linux and do all sorts with it.

I have 'unslung' mine to a 512MB USB Key and use a 320GB FAT32 HDD to store all sorts. It has a low power consumption, very customisable and very reliable.

 

[ste_bla]

I have the 250gb Lacie.

If you try to xfer a file more 200mb then it slows down a wee bit. Also to format the disc you need to be connected via usb. Lastly the transformer gets a wee bit hot and the fan is nosiey so no 24/7 usage really. I use mine for back ups only so it only goes on once a week and does what i need.

 

[jimblowscash]

i have the 500GB lacie, and it works fine, yes it does get a wee bit hot, but the casing is designed to draw the heat from the drive, i know its anal but ive checked the temp with my buffalo nas box, the buffalo is cooler to touch but the fan is pushing really hot air out, the lacie is hot to the touch but the air being pushed out is cooler so i guess its swings and roundabouts