scoobysmak

I have been looking at using a NAS but wonder if it would be better to basically build a computer as a server to be more flexible later.

For my personal goals I would like more than 1TB of storage that has a backup (RAID 1 or RAID 5). I have a lot of photos to store and for my clients sake want a backup at all times. I may also later choose to post a website and be able to view the photos incase they see something else they would like.

My home network consist of 3 computers, two Windows XP Media and one Windows 2000 Pro. I would like for the other computers (family members) to access the NAS and store some things but limit the amount of storage and keep them away from my important photos (basically if they didn't see the folders would be best but just some access denied is fine).

I have enough computer knowledge to be dangerous (in other words I know enough that I realize I don't know anything). I realize building another PC just as a server means it will be running 24/7 drawing power for everything Vs have a NAS and just running the hard drives 24/7. I think the PC may have better security options and be upgradeable in the future. The NAS may depend on what brand. My other question would be speed, which option would be faster to access and transfer the data. Finally what would make better plan to possibly create a website to view my work online, or access remotely. Thanks