I’m thinking about setting up a desktop as a home server. Need some advice as to operating systems and cost of same.
If you don’t mind using Windows than you might want to check out Windows Home Server software for $150. It can back up files everyday automatically, store all your videos and pictures so other computers on the network can have access, and it’s fairly easy to set up.
Another option is using Linux as the operating system for the home server which is free but takes a little more work so if your feeling a bit geeky than check out this guide on how to set up a home server with Linux.
If you are using an old PC than the only thing you really need is a hard drive with plenty of space, especially if you plan on storing a lot of videos. Hard drives are so cheap nowadays you should really get as much as you can afford.
Cnet’s got a nice video on setting up a home server that covers some basic steps.