How to turn your old computer into a NAS server

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Step 1: Choosing the right components

Step 2: Installing software

Step 3: Burn a CD with the FreeNAS image

Step 4: Creating volumes and users

Step 5: Share and Share alike

Step 6: The tip of the iceberg

When a PC gets too old to keep up the demands of modern application, many see very little use in keeping the computer. But what it is still good for is for use as a server a place to store data in files and databases.

Rather than taking it to a recycling site where more energy will be used to extract components and metals from the device, it can be re-purposed as a store for your other PCs backups or as a file server that you or your could access on the move.

By turning your old, perfectly serviceable PC into a NAS device you can easily save hundreds of pounds on installing software such as FreeNAS instead of buy a new box.