So which software also works with Windows.
This works since Windows can network. As soon as you can share a folder in the network, you can use it as data storage. If I remember correctly, Windows for Workgroups 3.11 could do that.
That is not possible in a meaningful way. You don't need any software, you can simply share folders or printers.
But neither a laptop nor a desktop Windows is a suitable basis for a server.
But neither a laptop nor a desktop Windows is a suitable basis for a server.
Because? Not everyone needs a Linux server or even server hardware. Sometimes you just want to save files from computer X to computer Y.
Because? Because it's not a server. And that's what was asked…
How do you define a server? As soon as a computer provides data to another computer, it is a server. It doesn't matter whether it says "Server" or not.
A server is robust hardware that is easy to maintain. Then typically has at least one RAID1 as "data server". Then ECC-RAM so that the file system is stable. And no man-made restrictions from a toy desktop OS. And a backup concept.
Copying files to a notebook is possible. But it has so obviously nothing to do with a "data server" that it is quite difficult to describe the delta meaningfully. It's just the exact opposite.
But I see it completely differently. Sure, a notebook or desktop computer is not initially designed for 24/7 operation and probably consumes more electricity than it would be necessary.
But everything else is more philosophical Kiki unless you are working in a professional network environment.
A normal desktop computer with a normal Windows 10 is also sufficient for the central storage of files.
As I said: a server holds data in the network. And it doesn't matter whether it's a notebook or a blade server or a Raspberry PI. "Server" is defined by the function, not by the hardware. Sure: the things you mentioned guarantee failure and data security, but initially they do not change the function.
You're right! Servers are totally overrated. And a notebook has the UPS already in it…
Oh bunny… You probably just have to learn to leave the church in the village if you need to. And obviously the questioner is not someone who works in a professional environment.
When I set up an infrastructure in a company, I use what you suggested. And I also build load balancers and all sorts of failover stuff.
But if X's parents just want to store files on a central server at home, then I either use a NAS or - because it's lying around there anyway - an old computer. It just works the same way.
None of my comments say servers are overrated. But on the contrary. But everything is fine where it belongs.
