How to Build Your Own Network Storage Device
The ability to store files off of your main hard drive is very beneficial and this is exactly what a network storage device offers you. Although the idea of building your own device sounds a bit daunting, it is not as complicated as it seems. You can make your own device quickly and efficiently on your own time.
Supplies needed:
- Motherboard with network, sound and video card
- Computer case
- CPU
- RAM
- CD-Rom drive
- Power supply
- Obtain the basic parts you would need for a computer. Since you are not using the device for anything more than storage, you do not have to get extensive or advanced computer parts, just parts that get the job done. As long as the parts are stable, move forward with this project.
- Assemble the computer with all of the pieces and install either Linux or Windows as the operating system. These are the preferred operating systems, because they make it easier to manage your memory storage.
- Format your hard drives and make them into two or three partitions. This provides you with more space out of the large hard drives. If you are installing Windows as the operating system, use the CD to split the drive into smaller ones. By separating the drives, it allows the storage to be clearly separated, when needed.
- Allow your computer to be available to the network, by selecting the option from “Properties”. Once you have opened “Properties,” click on “Sharing” and then “Make This Folder Available”. You have now created your own network storage device and it is ready for you to begin using it.