Think Desktop PC
IBM ThinkCentre SFF desktop PC (P4 3.6 GHz)
This is my main everyday PC, used for editing my videos and watching YouTube. I bought it for about 0 on eBay back in 2009, and they seem to hold their va…
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How to setup a home network with a desktop PC as a server?
I have a makeshift network with a router and switch, but it causes ip address conflicts and serious lag. We have about 10 or more wired connections and 20 or more wireless devices at any given time. I want to use a desktop pc as a server, upgrade my wired switch to a gigabit and use the server to manage it, and get a dual band router. My question is what do I need to do for the pc to make it a server and manage the switch? Any other input would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
think Desktop PC best answer:
Answer by GTB
Your network is likely bogged down due to the number of devices on the network. Wireless adds burden and it likely contributes to the demand.
Using a home grade router is unwise and such underpowered devices add to the burden and delay.
I do not see an overriding reason to use a managed switch. I suggest a 16 port switch rated for Gigabit speed. There are several reliable ones.
IP address conflicts are a result of improper configuration or multiple DHCP servers on the LAN. First eliminate all DHCP servers but one. Do not use wireless routers as wireless access points if you need more than 1 wireless access point.
Replace the router with a commercial grade router such as an Adtran Netvanta 3120 router. Allow it to handle all DHCP for the LAN. Assign static LAN IP addresses to things like the router itself, all network printers, wireless access points, and the server and these must NOT be addresses in the DHCP pool. Use wireless access points with the Netvanta 3120 as it does not have one built in. Should you need more than 1 wireless subnet, procure the Netvanta 150 wireless access point – otherwise use any other reputable access point.
Now for the PC acting as server – you must enable directories on the pc for sharing. The way this is done depends upon the Windows Operating System so check the instructions on file sharing. I suggest you set up a Data directory on C drive (c:/data/) and subfolders under c:/data for the various folders; you can even limit access to each directory as needed. Understand file directory sharing in Windows so you can limit access as is prudent.