Setting up my first file server.

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I have a Linksys WRT54G router. The server that stores the files is running Media Center. It's a desktop connected via ethernet jack to the router.

I also have a laptop running Media Center using the same router connecting via wireless.

My main goal is to be able to copy files from the laptop to the desktop and be able to access the files on the desktop while using the laptop. I would also like to be able to play audio and watch video stored on the desktop while using my laptop. The main formats for these files will be mp3, flac, avi, and mpg.

Basically I need someone to point me to a good howto to achieve this. A few questions I have are: What are the exact services I need running on both computers to achieve this? And how to do this in a secure manner?

I may use Slackware on the desktop instead of Media Center. If I decide to do this, does anyone have a link to a good Linux related howto.

Thanks

 

[JackMDS]

Make sure that all the Sharing is working correctly.
Successful Sharing involves some general consideration in Network settings, http://www.ezlan.net/sharing.html

As well as specific adjustment of each computer according to what is allowed to be shared. http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;304040

Map the drive with the media on the other computers. ( http://www.ezlan.net/sharing#map )

A mapped drive would act as a local drive so you can open any media that you want by using the appropriate utility on the remote computer.

 

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Thanks Jack exactly the links I needed.