• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

Looking for a home network external HD

T

teddyv

Senior member
Hi Folks - I have a home wireless setup, WPA security and SSID turned off, and we have two laptops we use. I'd like to add an external HD so I could share files with my Wife, do backups from the laptops, keep my music library, etc. I know there are external HDs out there that can plug in to the wireless router but am not sure how they work, what the security is, or whether some are better than others. I have looked online without much luck.

Apparently another option might be a new wireless router that will enable me to plug in one of the external HDs I already have through a USB port - looked but couldn't find this with the regular Netgear/Linksys/etc. - is this a specialty thing?

Anyone have a quick primer or recommendations?

Thanks for any and all help.

Ted
 
What you are looking for is a NAS (Network Access Storage).

Three option.

1 - Buy a readymade NAS.,WD, Seagate, etc., make them it is an Enclosure with Network Interface and a Hard Drive.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16822136196

You plug it to the Router config and done.

Easy inexpensive solution but limited option

2. Buy a NAS enclosure and put in your own HD ( many of these enclosures can use more than one drive ).

http://www.newegg.com/Product/...x?Item=N82E16822165075

More expensive and almost always slower than what the specs promise. In most cases can not do NTFS on its drives.

3. Use an old computer to build your own NAS. Open source, and any variants of Windows with the correct File sharing would work well.

My favorite is an Old computer with Window Home server, http://www.ezlan.net/WHS.html

Usually more expensive to build and maintain but far superior to the other solution.

Real Giga on Giga Networks, and can do much more than a dedicated NAS.

============
*Note 1 - Each one of the methods described above has its advantage and disadvantage, search for the term and educate yourself before you make a decision.

*Noter2 - The hardware linked above is an example and not a recommendation for the specific device.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top