A home network server provides services to devices in or outside the home, including file and print services, media services, and data backup. It can authenticate users and computers, run various operating systems, and serve media content. It doesn’t require enterprise-class hardware and needs a capable network interface card and an uninterruptible power supply.
A home network server is a computer installed in a private residence that provides services to other devices in or outside the home over a home network. It is typically connected to a LAN, the Internet, or both. The services it provides can include file and print services, media services, web caching, and even web services. A home network server can also provide data backup services, depending on the specifications of the operating system software.
In the typical home network environment, a home network server is often deployed to authenticate users and computers. Instead of logging into their desktops, users simply log into the server, which gives them potential access to resources across the entire network. Simply put, it transfers these resources from all computers on the network to a centralized server, where they can be accessed by all users according to their assigned privileges.
A home network server is capable of running a wide variety of operating systems. Home business owners and computer enthusiasts can generally choose their preferred platform, whether it’s Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, Unix, or Solaris. Many home server computers come with Windows Home Server pre-installed on the hardware.
Home network servers vary in complexity depending on the experience of the system administrator. For example, an IT expert might more easily manage the server using the command shell than someone with basic computer skills. These servers can also be managed graphically from remote desktop systems and interfaces such as RDP and Webmin. Windows Home Server is packaged with a consumer-oriented graphical interface that simplifies navigation and administration.
Many people use a home network server to serve media content to other computers and home network hardware in their home. Windows Home Server takes advantage of the built-in Windows Media Connect functionality to allow streaming of media content to media receivers powered by Digital Living Network (DLNA) devices, such as Xbox 360. Apple’s Macintosh server offers iTunes®, Elgato EyeConnect and PS3 Media Server. A Linux® home network server supports a number of all-in-one open source solutions that enable the distribution of multimedia content.
Enterprise-class hardware or significant computing power is typically not required to run a home network server. This is because the average home network consists of only a small number of computers. The main requirements for such a system are a capable network interface card and an uninterruptible power supply to prevent data corruption in the event of an outage.
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