I'm wondering about the pros and cons of using a small "linux box server" instead of a dedicated network attached storage (NAS) box.
I have all sorts of parts and hardware and can easily do either, but I'm wondering about the preferences of my LQ colleagues.

I know that NAS boxes provide file services based on most of the popular protocols for linux, mac, and win-dose. Some also include printer services. Most have some sort of built-in web-page for box administration. I have not done an exhaustive search of other NAS features but I'm sure there are others.

A small linux box can do file and printer services, but it can also do any of the things that full-sized linux workstations and servers can deliver -- limited only by the power of the total server configuration.

NAS boxes are largely turn-key -- they do what they do -- and they are largely set-and-forget. A small linux box is a server complete with full-sized server admin needs.

Thanks in advance,
~~~ 0;-Dan

if this is for a business you might be better off with a true NAS, or running one of the distro that turn a system into a NAS.

for home use go with the linux system and just configure NFS and or SAMBA and CUPs as required.

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