Nas_Server_Project

This guide walks you through the complete process of converting an old desktop computer into a reliable Network-Attached Storage (NAS) system using a 256GB SSD and OpenMediaVault (OMV). It covers hardware upgrades, software installation, and configuration.

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📋 Table of Contents

1. Overview
2. Requirements
3. Step 1: Hardware Preparation
4. Step 2: SSD Installation
5. Step 3: Preparing the OMV Bootable Drive
6. Step 4: BIOS Configuration
7. Step 5: Installing OpenMediaVault
8. Step 6: Initial Web Configuration
9. Step 7: Creating Shares and Users
10. Step 8: Network Settings
11. Optional: Advanced Features
12. Maintenance & Tips

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🔎 Overview

I repurposed an old desktop PC from my home by upgrading its storage with a 256GB SSD and installing OpenMediaVault, a free and powerful Linux-based NAS operating system. This setup enables centralized file storage, remote access, and easy management of shared folders over the network.

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✅ Requirements

Hardware

• Old Desktop PC (minimum 2GB RAM, SATA support)
• 256GB SATA SSD
• SATA data and power cables
• USB flash drive (≥ 4GB) for bootable installer
• Ethernet cable for network access

Software

• OpenMediaVault ISO
• Tool to create bootable USB (e.g., Rufus, Etcher)

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🔧 Step 1: Hardware Preparation

1. Power off the desktop and disconnect it from the power source.
2. Open the case and inspect for dust or damage.
3. Ensure SATA ports and PSU connections are available.

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💾 Step 2: SSD Installation

1. Mount the SSD in a 2.5″ bay or use a 2.5″ to 3.5″ adapter.
2. Connect the SATA data cable to the motherboard.
3. Connect the SATA power cable from the PSU to the SSD.
4. Close the case and prepare for boot.

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🛠️ Step 3: Preparing the OMV Bootable Drive

1. On a separate computer, download the latest OMV ISO.
2. Use Rufus or Etcher to create a bootable USB:
   • Select the USB drive
   • Choose the OMV ISO file
   • Start the flashing process
3. Eject the USB safely once completed.

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⚙️ Step 4: BIOS Configuration

1. Power on the old desktop and enter BIOS (usually F2, DEL, or ESC).
2. Set SATA Mode to AHCI.
3. Set Boot Order to prioritize USB devices.
4. Save changes and reboot with the USB inserted.

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💻 Step 5: Installing OpenMediaVault

1. Boot into the USB installer and select Install.
2. Choose your language, region, and keyboard layout.
3. Select the 256GB SSD as the installation target.
4. Set a strong root password.
5. Configure the network (DHCP or static IP).
6. Complete the installation, remove the USB, and reboot.

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🌐 Step 6: Initial Web Configuration

1. After reboot, OMV will display the local IP address.
2. Open a browser on another computer and navigate to that IP.
3. Login credentials:
   • Username: admin
   • Password: openmediavault
4. Change the admin password under System → General Settings.

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📁 Step 7: Creating Shares and Users

1. Go to Storage → File Systems and format/mount the SSD.
2. Create a Shared Folder under Access Rights Management.
3. Enable SMB/CIFS under Services to allow file sharing.
4. Create user accounts for individual access control.

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🌐 Step 8: Network Settings

1. Navigate to System → Network → Interfaces.
2. Assign a Static IP Address for consistent access.
3. (Optional) Enable SSH for remote terminal access.

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🧩 Optional: Advanced Features

• OMV Extras: Add Docker, Portainer, and other services.
• RAID/LVM: Add more drives for redundancy or flexible storage.
• Remote Access: Configure port forwarding for outside network access.

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🔄 Maintenance & Tips

• Update regularly via the OMV Web UI or CLI:

  sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
  omv-upgrade