Hello All,

I have a few questions regarding setting up a file server.

My network: I am running a Dell desktop (XP Home) and Mac (OS X 10.4) notebook behind a wireless network. I want to set up a file server for backing up photos, music, and other files on a spare HP desktop. I have successfully installed Debian as a server on my spare HP desktop. I am using an Insight Broadband static IP address internet connection.

Question #1 - Can my Mac share files with the Debian file server?

Question #2 - Is is easier for a beginner to manage a file server wih graphical mode? I don't mind all text...

Question #2 - What should my XP, MAC, and Linux workgroup names be? The same across all three systems?

Question #3 - What should the domain names be?

Question #4 - Do my login names and passwords have to match across all computers to share files?

Question #5 - Assuming I get everything running, do I have to log into the server or just boot it up to share files? If so, does it matter what login?

This is my first Linux project and I am really grateful for any assistance.

1. Yes. Assuming you have already a shared volume in your server for Windows - using Samba - Mac can use Samba shares. However, you can share the very same volume using Appletalk or NFS (UNIX native, recommended).
2. Then go with text, you can use Webmin though if life seems to tough.
2.2. Same would be nice.
3. Whatever you like.
4. No, and you can set up your shares for passwordless access - in case you are on a private network with only trusted boxes around.
5. Just boot up.

1) Yep
2) Whatever you are most comfortable with, Debian doesn't have as many GUI based admin tools as say Fedora does.
2-b) If you're using Samba then yes they should be the same work group
3) Doesnt really matter
4) Using samba you can assign users/pass via that to correspond to various user names
5) if it's samba you're using then it's services need to be started, this can be achieved when booting the machine, so no yuou dont have to have it logged in