2013-08-17

Hi guys.

I am planning to build a NAS/File Server for my devices (HTPC/PCH/Xtreamer/RPi/Android devices)

I have got:

* Gigabyte GA-E350N

* 4GB DDR3 RAM

* Cooler Master 460w PSU

* An ordinary cabinet (to be upgraded later)

* Gigabit Dual Band Router (TP-Link TL-WDR3600)

* Dual Band USB Wifi Dongles (Tata Sky USB Dongles are dual band :cool: )

* CAT6 wiring to be done.

I want to share 3 HDDs (3TB+2TB+2TB). Initially I wanted to keep my HDDs in NTFS file system (I will feel that things are in my control) but I guess that will eliminate many good options so I have dropped that criteria.

I want to keep this system "ON" from morning to late night (not 24 hours).

I have zero knowledge of Linux but can learn basic commands.

The options I have:

1. UnRaid (Thanks to SAM9S's for his thread and this thread on XBMC forum. Question: Is a parity drive must for UnRaid? I am not worried about my disk failure (I have same data in 3 more backup HDDs (3TB_USB + 2TB_USB + 2TB_Internal).

2. Ubuntu Creating A Home Media & File Server With Ubuntu

3. Windows 8 home server (I think less difficult for me) Set up Windows 8 as a home server

* I have a 80GB HDD to use as a boot drive for option no. 2 & 3..

Guys, which is the best option for me and how should I go about it ?

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