NAS or network shares under Windows?

[chrbar]

Hello,

My question might seem a bit strange in this forum!
I've an old computer (running Windows 7) that I would like to turn it into NAS, and I'm not sure which solution is the best for me: install and run FreeNAS on it... or keep Windows 7 and create network shares?

My goal is to store all my data (at the same place) and make them available on my network for my computers and devices (Wii, iPhone...): does network shares under Windows can be an easy and good solution for me?
If not, what would be the benefits of using FreeNAS instead of network shares under Windows?

Thanks for your help :)
Chris

 

[Tomas Liumparas]

Hello,

First you should give your hardware information.
Second, the number of users that will be connecting to the PC and the purppose, why they will be connecting. Streaming videos, backuping? Also do you need refundancy or not?

Anyway, if your PC doesn't have 8GB of RAM installing FreeNAS is not recomended. Also, I believe you are running some consumer hardware so FreeNAS isn't a reliable option also.

Benefits of FreeNAS:
Huh.. Read the features to get a general idea.