It's time to securely save your information. What should you do next?
It's time to securely save your information. What should you do next?
Hey everyone. I'm seeking a solid long-term backup plan for my data. I need a server drive that's easy to reach via LAN. RAID setups across several drives would be ideal, and I want at least 4 terabytes of storage. Space and noise aren't major concerns, though. A basement location sounds perfect. If possible, a rack enclosure would be nice. I'm not too picky about the hardware—used enterprise gear from eBay could work if it's dependable. Since I'm new to this, I'm open to suggestions but want to start somewhere manageable. Let me know what you think! Thanks!
It seems you're looking to expand your setup with a second machine and a RAID card. If you have an old motherboard and processor, you might be able to achieve this. I also have a RAID 10 configuration stored in my basement that I can connect to my home network.
Ebay offers solid options for bareband Supermicro servers, allowing you to install your own CPU and RAM. Most models come in 1U or 2U sizes and accommodate 4 or 12 3.5" drives. For a backup setup, FreeNAS is a solid choice—it supports ZFS, a robust file system, and uses Software RAID which eliminates the need for a physical RAID card (ZFS makes this even simpler). You might need a new Host Bus Adapter depending on your previous server model. The LSI 9207-8i and LSI 9201-16i are excellent selections. Once you have the hardware, the rest is plug-and-play configuration with the operating system.
You’re praised for understanding the importance of having backups. This positions you above many others who rely on server solutions. It’s wise to avoid server-based backups; instead, keep your data spread across three locations: the device itself, an external storage unit, and another offsite location. For a true safety net, ensure each backup is stored separately—ideally two drives for each backup medium. A connected backup device, even with power or network access, adds redundancy but isn’t a complete safeguard against viruses or accidental loss. Keeping it powered on risks damage from surges, while natural disasters or theft can wipe everything. Offsite backups shield against malware and accidental deletions, offering peace of mind. Storing these drives at a trusted location or secure institution adds another layer. Regularly swap in offsite backups for onsite ones to maintain reliability. For data management, separate your operating system, games, and programs from the main drive—either via partitions or dedicated storage. When backing up, use tools like Macrium Reflect Free; they create snapshots that act like copies. Syncing software such as FreeFileSync can mirror changes without touching the original drive, speeding up updates. Versioning features help recover lost files and warn of corruption. While these methods demand some effort, they’re efficient once set up. Most users find this approach both practical and dependable over time.
Thanks for your feedback. I understand your perspective on this situation. For my first NAS setup at home, I’m considering what you have to say about it. There’s a ThinkServer listed on Craigslist nearby: I’d like your thoughts on it, especially since it’s my initial NAS purchase. My plan is to lower the price to around $225. Any ideas or suggestions would be appreciated.