Not Sure I'm Really Ready for Ubuntu

[Catia]

I have a MSI Wind Nettop and I'm thinking of converting it to a NAS, I'm okay on the hardware part but the Linux Server side set-up seems intimidating to attempt, I have tried Linux before and somewhat understand the basics but that's about it.

I basically want a raid 1 set-up to back up my PC's files, digital pictures and important docs. Is this the right direction or should I just go with an esata raid 1 external enclosure an manually perform backups when needed? I don't really need a server for any other reasons right now other then what I detailed.

So all I want to do is be able to access the drive from Firefox on my XP based PC and copy the respected files to the NAS for backup.

Is there a detailed tutorial for beginners on setting up what I desire with Ubuntu Server and can I expect any issues using XP over 7?

Thanks!

 

[thiggins]

If all you want to do is back up your main PC, then an external drive is the cheapest way to go. I wouldn't worry about RAID, a single drive would be just fine.

If you want to try a NAS, but don't want to wrestle with Linux, I'd try Windows Home Server.

 

[Catia]

It would be my only backup so that's why I thought RAID 1 at a minimum would be safe. I never had a HDD failure but I don't want to chance it with some data, ie digital pics.

I know WHS doesn't have softRAID but Folder Duplication or Drive Extender which can slow down file transfer so I read. A few claimed to get raid working but the Wind does not support hardware raid. I really don't care about performance persay.

Looks like I'll be giving WHS a try, thanks!

 

[thiggins]

If you want more "insurance", I'd get two separate external drives and alternate backups to them, keeping one in a safe place (fireproof box and/or offsite).

WHS file duplication does cause a performance drop, but only when it's running, which is scheduled for low-use periods (like overnight).