Setting up file servers in local networks on Windows and Linux

For effective information management and general document handling in modern computer networks, it is impossible to do without file servers, which are an integral part of this process and provide centralized data storage. By using file servers, a large number of users gain organized and simplified access to various resources in local networks, whether in a small office or a large corporation, simplifying file sharing and enhancing data security. The system, being universal for operating systems, regardless of business requirements and administrator skills, allows for the selection of the most suitable platform, whether it be Linux or Windows.

In this article, we will discuss how to set up a file server on Windows and Linux. Each of these systems has its advantages and features, and knowing how to properly configure a file server will help you optimize data storage and sharing processes in your local network.

Advantages of a File Server

Before we proceed to the setup, let’s briefly discuss the benefits a file server can bring:

1. Centralized Management: All data is stored in one place, allowing administrators to easily manage access, security settings, and backups.
2. Time and Resource Savings: With shared file access, users can easily share data, eliminating the need to send files via email or use external drives.
3. Data Security: A file server allows for strict access rules to be set, limiting rights to view, modify, or delete data. This helps minimize the risk of accidental loss of important documents.
4. Backup: Centralized storage simplifies data backup creation, which is especially important in case of system failure or hardware issues.
5. Flexibility of Settings: Modern operating systems offer many options for configuring file servers, allowing for solutions tailored to a wide variety of tasks and user types.

Next, we will take a closer look at how to configure a file server on the main operating systems, such as Linux and Windows.

Configuration in Windows Operating System

Step 1: Choose the Version of the Operating System

Windows Server is best suited for large organizations and high-load networks, as this version of the OS offers more advanced features for managing server components. However, for using a file server in home environments and small offices, you can freely choose between standard versions of Windows 10 or 11.

1. If using Windows Server, install the necessary file server role through Server Manager.
2. Using a standard version of Windows, which is quite suitable for home and small networks, simply use the folder and file sharing feature.

Step 2: Configure the Shared Directory

In this step, we first need to create a working folder that will be used for network file sharing:

1. You need to find and open access for other users to the folder you plan to use for file sharing.
2. Find the “Properties” option by right-clicking on the folder.
3. Then, in the properties, find the “Sharing” tab and allow “Sharing”.
4. After granting access, we need to specify who exactly we allow, choosing user groups or individual users, and also set the access level: read and write or read only.  
5. To save our settings, click the “Apply” button.

Step 3: Configure Network Settings

First of all, you need to ensure that access to our server is activated for network users. For this, you should also grant rights for printer and file sharing:

1. First, go to the “Control Panel” and then to the “Network and Sharing Center”
2. To enable file and printer sharing, find the “Change advanced sharing settings” option and select it.
3. To simplify file handling, you can disable password protection by turning off this option. However, we strongly advise against canceling the use of protection when working in high-security networks.

Step 4: Configure Server Access for Users

Using the network address, users can access the shared folders:

1. Open “File Explorer” on any system device.
2. Find the “Map network drive” option.
3. At the next stage, enter the network address that redirects us to the shared folder, for example, \\IP_address_of_server\Folder.
4. Enter user credentials if necessary.

After all the manipulations, network users will be able to see and work with the files. This applies to both local drives and shared access.

Configuration in Linux Operating System

To create and configure a server that supports the SMB protocol used in Windows networks, Linux requires additional software in the form of the Samba program. This thus enables file sharing over the network between computers using Linux and Windows operating systems.

Step 1: Install Samba

The installation process for the Samba program may vary depending on the Linux distribution.

For Ubuntu or Debian:

sudo apt update

sudo apt install samba

In CentOS or Fedora:

sudo yum install samba samba-common

Step 2: Working with the Samba Configuration File

To integrate with the network, after completing the Samba installation, you need to use the configuration file to make the necessary changes:

sudo nano /etc/samba/smb.conf

Finally, you need to add the block shown below at the end of the file:

[Shared]

path = /home/user/shared

browseable = yes

writable = yes

guest ok = yes

read only = no

To provide shared access to the folder, replace path with the actual path to the required directory. 

Step 3: Configure Shared Folder Permissions 

First, create the directory intended for sharing and set the necessary permissions:

sudo mkdir -p /home/user/shared

sudo chmod 777 /home/user/shared

The chmod 777 command provides full access to all documents in the folder to all users. This can be adjusted based on security requirements.

Step 4: Restart Samba

To apply the changes made to the configuration file, you will need to restart Samba:

Now the server is ready to work, and users can connect to it.

Step 5: Connect to the Server from Windows

To connect to the Linux file server from a Windows computer, open “File Explorer” and enter the network path, for example:

\\IP_address_of_server\Shared

After that, the folder will be available for viewing and editing as if it were on a local drive.

Backup and Data Security

Establishing regular backups and ensuring data security is one of the key aspects of setting up a file server. Various methods for automating the backup process, both built-in and third-party, have been implemented for both platforms mentioned in this publication.

Backup on Windows

You can automatically create copies of data to external drives or network disks in Windows using built-in backup tools, such as “Windows Server Backup”.

Backup on Linux

On Linux, you can use rsync for incremental data backups. Here is an example command:

rsync -av --delete /home/user/shared /mnt/backup/

This command will create a backup of the /home/user/shared folder to the disk mounted at /mnt/backup/, and it will delete all files that have been removed from the source folder.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a File Server on Windows

Using a file server on both Windows and Linux has its advantages and disadvantages. The choice of platform depends on business requirements, administrator skills, and the specifics of using the file server.

Advantages:

1. Ease of Setup and Use: Windows offers an intuitive interface and tools that simplify the setup and management of a file server. Users with minimal server experience will find it easier to set up a file server on Windows.
2. Integration with Other Microsoft Products: A file server on Windows integrates well with other Microsoft-developed programs and applications, such as Active Directory, Exchange, Microsoft Office, making it a convenient solution for companies using the Microsoft ecosystem.
3. Support for NTFS Access Control: NTFS (New Technology File System) allows for flexible management of access rights at the file and folder level, providing fine security configurations for various groups and individual users.
4. Support for Centralized Management: Windows Server tools for centralized management of users, permissions, and documents make it suitable for large networks with a high number of subscribers.
5. Graphical Interface: The flexibility of Windows configurations for server management makes it convenient for users accustomed to graphical interfaces, as many tasks can be performed without using the command line.

Disadvantages:

1. Cost: Windows Server requires a license, which can increase costs for companies, especially if licenses need to be purchased for each client connecting to the server.
2. High System Requirements: Consuming memory and processing power, Windows Server uses more resources compared to the Linux operating system, which can be a disadvantage when working on older or weaker servers.
3. Limited Flexibility: The user-friendly graphical configuration of Windows unfortunately does not avoid significant expenditure of effort and time on some tasks compared to more adaptive Linux systems, where configurations can be finely tuned to meet specific company requirements. 
4. Windows Updates and Vulnerabilities: Due to Windows being susceptible to a large number of attacks, to avoid unpleasant situations with hacking, infection, and data leakage, it is necessary to frequently update the system to eliminate vulnerabilities. This creates additional challenges for administrators who need to monitor security and the timeliness of updates.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a File Server on Linux

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Advantages:

1. Flexibility and Control: Linux provides complete control over server settings, allowing administrators to configure the server down to the smallest details, including file, user, and security management.
2. Free to Use: Linux is a free operating system, making it attractive for small and medium-sized companies that do not need to pay for licenses. Many distributions offer open source code, allowing the system to be adapted to specific needs.
3. High Security: Linux is known for its reliability and high level of protection. Linux servers are less frequently attacked, and the system allows for fine-tuning of access rights, which enhances security.
4. Low System Requirements: Linux can run efficiently even on older or low-performance servers. This makes it an excellent choice for small networks or organizations with limited budgets.
5. Powerful Command Line Tools: System administrators accustomed to the command line can easily automate tasks and manage the server using powerful command-line tools and scripts.
6. Large Community and Support: Linux has a vast community, and solutions and documentation already exist for most tasks or problems. This allows administrators to quickly find information and solutions for various issues.

Disadvantages:

1. Steep Learning Curve: Setting up and managing a file server on Linux can be challenging for users who are not familiar with the command line. Administrators encountering Linux for the first time may struggle with solving tasks and configuring the system.
2. Lack of Native Graphical Interface: Although some Linux distributions have graphical interfaces, most administrative tasks are performed through the command line, which may be unfamiliar to users accustomed to GUI (graphical user interface) like in Windows.
3. Integration with Microsoft Products: For organizations using the Microsoft ecosystem, setting up a file server on Linux can be complicated, especially when integrating with products like Active Directory and Exchange. Despite existing solutions, they require additional configurations and knowledge.
4. Limited Software Support: Some specialized enterprise applications may not be available for Linux or require additional steps for configuration and integration.

Conclusion

Setting up a file server on Windows and Linux is an important step in organizing effective data management in a local network. The right choice of platform depends on the needs of your network, the skill level of the administrator, and the specifics of the tasks.