Hello.
I would appreciate your views on my desktop computer, and its suitability for use as a NAS server.
Current situation
I have a number of computers:
Strategy
I saw an article which suggest using an old desktop computer as a NAS server, using FreeNAS. I learnt that it comes in two versions, a small version which requires 2GB and a large version that requires 8GB. So the small version seems ideal.
The graphics card on the old desktop is so old that even newer Linux versions don't have graphics drivers for it, except for a Nouveau driver which doesn't work properly. So, never mind Windows 10, Linux will also reach end of life in 2025.
Power Supply
The power supply is very old, its the one that came with the computer. How likely is it to be working properly, and how likely is it to be on its last legs? How can I tell one way or the other?
Memory
Apparently, FreeNAS has been replaced by TrueNAS. TrueNAS requires 8GB of memory, according to the TrueNAS website. Does this seem about right? Will I need to update the memory?
Overall
The idea of taking an old desktop and using it for something useful really appeals to me. But eventually there comes a point when the computer is so old that it doesn't make sense.
Should I give up on this computer and buy a second-hand or new desktop instead?
Thoughts, please.
I would appreciate your views on my desktop computer, and its suitability for use as a NAS server.
Current situation
I have a number of computers:
- Desktop, Windows 11, very new
- Desktop, Linux, 15 years old <<< target for use as a NAS server
- Laptop, Windows 10, 6 years old, cheap & nasty HP junk
- Laptop, Linux, ancient
Strategy
I saw an article which suggest using an old desktop computer as a NAS server, using FreeNAS. I learnt that it comes in two versions, a small version which requires 2GB and a large version that requires 8GB. So the small version seems ideal.
The graphics card on the old desktop is so old that even newer Linux versions don't have graphics drivers for it, except for a Nouveau driver which doesn't work properly. So, never mind Windows 10, Linux will also reach end of life in 2025.
Power Supply
The power supply is very old, its the one that came with the computer. How likely is it to be working properly, and how likely is it to be on its last legs? How can I tell one way or the other?
Memory
Apparently, FreeNAS has been replaced by TrueNAS. TrueNAS requires 8GB of memory, according to the TrueNAS website. Does this seem about right? Will I need to update the memory?
Overall
The idea of taking an old desktop and using it for something useful really appeals to me. But eventually there comes a point when the computer is so old that it doesn't make sense.
Should I give up on this computer and buy a second-hand or new desktop instead?
Thoughts, please.