Hi

I am interested in setting up a simple server to write files to and read files from. The server should be able to be accessed by more than one computer. Although I have some computing knowledge I am by no means an expert. I was wandering if someone could please give me some idea of what I will need and what I will need to do to achieve this? Any help is much appreciated

Regards

David

for something like this you really dont need a server platform like 2000 Server or 2003 Server although they would give you many more options in configuring. you cna pull this off with a 2000 Pro or XP Pro box and just creating users/groups with applicable permissions. Try to stay away from xp Home though. What types of files/appz are you talking about accessing from the server and how will you be connecting (cat5/wireless/etc), will it be hosting internet as well?

You first need to define exactl;y what you are trying to achieve. I suggest that you consider the following questions, which will help to define the parameters.

1. Are you planning a local network within one building (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN) possibly using the internet for access.

2. How many machines will access the server.

3. What storage capacity will the server need - standard WP files, etc, big databases, multimedia.

4. How critical is server availability - UPS, RAID 5, backup strategy, standby hardware.

5. Will you be using cable, wireless, or a combination.

6. How critical is data security.

Think about these questions, come back with your answers on the Networking forum, and you may be able to move forward.

i have the same question im trying ot set up one using a old computer for my home network that has 5 computers

1)LAN 2 hardwired to the router, 1 wireless desktop, 2 wireless laptops

2)5 computers will be connecting to it

3)i will use the old hd in it (4GB) and i have a external 80 GB that i will hook up and use too

4)i will use a UPS but other then that no raid or back up

5)i will use standard cat5 cables

6)i wont really have any real security

i will also be using XP Home cuz thats all i have

how exactly do i hook it up go through map network drive and find it?