How to turn your old computer into a NAS server

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Step 1: Choosing the right components

When a PC gets too old to keep up the demands of modern application, many see very little use in keeping the computer. But what it is still good for is for use as a server a place to store data in files and databases.

Rather than taking it to a recycling site where more energy will be used to extract components and metals from the device, it can be re-purposed as a store for your other PCs backups or as a file server that you or your could access on the move.

By turning your old, perfectly serviceable PC into a NAS device you can easily save hundreds of pounds on installing software such as FreeNAS instead of buy a new box.

Rene Millman is a freelance writer and broadcaster who covers cybersecurity, AI, IoT, and the cloud. He also works as a contributing analyst at GigaOm and has previously worked as an analyst for Gartner covering the infrastructure market. He has made numerous television appearances to give his views and expertise on technology trends and companies that affect and shape our lives. You can follow Rene Millman on Twitter.