With a NAS (network-attached storage) you can easily share files between computers. You don't always have to purchase such a device, maybe you already have all the equipment at home without knowing it with which you can launch a real NAS for free!
Tip 01: Router with NAS
Did you know that there is a chance that you already have a NAS in your house, without you noticing it? So before you go to the store or place your order online, it's worth checking this out. Modern routers often have a simple NAS function on board. It's an extra and the options are more limited than when you buy a 'real' NAS. Also read: A second life for your router in 8 steps.
On the other hand, for many people, the main purpose of a NAS is to make it easy to access and share files. And then you don't need most of the extra functions of a NAS. Using your router as a NAS saves you a lot of money and saves an extra device to manage.
Tip 01 Modern routers have NAS functionality on board.
Tip 02: Via the browser
The router is the device that you get on loan from the provider as soon as you take out an internet subscription. The device is usually located in the meter cupboard. It is also possible that you have bought and installed a router yourself. To enable NAS functionality, navigate to the router's home page via a browser by typing an IP address into the address bar. For example //192.168.2.254. You will always find the correct address in the documentation that you have received from the provider or in the manual of the router. Access to the router is secured, so you also need a username and password.
You will also find this information in the documentation. Once logged in, you can set the storage option. How this exactly works differs per router, although it always comes down to the same thing in general. We use the Experia Box from provider KPN as an example. The names in the software of your router may differ. If you have an older router and the storage function is missing, you can consider purchasing a new router. You can also read on from tip 11, to use an unused computer as a NAS.
Tip 02 Log in to the router via the browser to be able to set things up.
Tip 03: Activate USB
Once logged in to the Experia box via the browser, we go to tab Extras and then we choose in the gray column on the left for the option USB. On this screen, we first activate the router's storage option by checking the option Enable USB function. Fill in the field Server Name Optionally enter a name for the NAS or leave the default name that is already there. Then click the button Apply to make the changes.
Tip 03 First activate the storage option.
