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I would like to set up a file server on my home network without buying an entire computer just for file storage. The idea is that anyone in my family would be able to drop photos, music, etc onto this "server" and anyone else would be able to access the files. Ideally, I would like to be able to simply connect a hard drive to the network somehow, and have it take up little space. Does something like this exist? If so, what is it called and how does it work? If not, what's a good workaround to what I'm trying to do?
Edit: To clarify, I don't necessarily need to hook up an existing drive; I would be fine with it if it came with its own hard drive. (In fact, that would probably save me from having to buy a separate HD.) The problem with using a computer is I don't really have room for a full-blown machine, so something more along the lines of a small box with a hard drive inside would be ideal. But if setting up a real server would be more cost effective than the alternatives, I would like to know that so I can weight my options. Also, I don't need any "advanced" features such as permissions or whatever else, I just need to be able to share files--that's it. Thanks.
New Addonics NAS adapter has 2 USB ports, one for a printer and another for cheaper USB storage solution. http://www.addonics.com/products/nas/nas2xu2.asp
– Bratch – 2010-04-06T14:34:35.537For the record, I ended up buying the exact one you linked to, and it works like a charm. Only problem is Windows can't seem to remember my password for the drive. – Sasha Chedygov – 2010-10-29T00:04:46.883
ok... Why -1? This sort of thing just annoys me... – William Hilsum – 2009-12-20T00:19:13.767
2You forgot the freehand circles, maybe? – pavium – 2009-12-20T00:24:49.943
@Pavium +1 lol... Just wish downvoting had tighter controls or something. – William Hilsum – 2009-12-20T00:29:24.340
lol @Pav, +1 to that. – John T – 2009-12-20T00:33:13.450
Do these NAS Enclosure Devices generally come with their own hard drives? Or will I have to buy it separately? – Sasha Chedygov – 2009-12-20T03:14:07.453
They are hard drives in the enclosure, along with supporting electronics and software for them to connect to your network as standalone storage devices. – Joe Internet – 2009-12-20T03:19:11.170