How to Build a CIFS (SMB) Network Computer

CIFS (Common Internet File System), which also is known as SMB (Server Message Block), is a network protocol used mainly on Microsoft computers to access data on other computers. SMB implementations are available on other operating systems such as Linux to allow a Windows computer to interact with them. You can build a file server that uses SMB on either a Windows or a Linux operating system. Linux uses Samba software to manage SMB data.

Things You'll Need

• Motherboard
• RAM
• Processor
• Hard drive
• Removable disk drive
• Case with power supply
• Operating system installation CD

Instructions

Hardware

1. Set your hardware component on a clean, clutter-free table or work surface.

2. Open the processor socket and discard the protective cover. Insert the processor in the socket, making sure the tongue on the socket aligns with the groove on the processor.

3. Open the latches on the RAM slots and insert the RAM, making sure the tongue and groove are aligned. Press down on each side of the RAM to secure it in place. Make sure the latches are back in the up position.

4. Use the heatsink's manual to secure it on top of the processor. Connect the power cable to the motherboard.

5. Open the case and screw in the motherboard support on the case. Put the motherboard in the case and secure it with the screws that come with the case.

6. Insert the hard drive and disk drive (CD or DVD) in their respective slots and secure them with screws. Connect the SATA cable to the motherboard and to the drives. Connect the power cords to the drives and motherboard.

7. Use the motherboard's manual to connect the case cables to the motherboard. The cables include the one for the power button, reset button, hard drive activity light and additional USB ports. Plug the computer to the wall socket and turn the computer on.

8. Check that all the fans and drives receive power. Turn the computer off, close the case and connect the computer to the display, mouse and keyboard. Turn the computer on and insert your operating system disk.

Linux operating system

1. Insert the Linux installation CD and follow the on-screen instructions for a basic Linux installation. When choosing the packages, make sure to choose Samba.

2. Boot in your new Linux operating system and use your favorite text editor to edit the "/etc/smb/smb.conf" file.

3. Enter the following to give everyone on your network access to the data:

   [global]
   workgroup = Workgroup (or the workgroup name you created for your home network)
   netbios name = Server (or any name you wish your server to have)
   security = SHARE
   [media]
   path = /myfiles (enter the Linux path of the folder you want to share.)
   browseable = Yes
   guest ok = Yes

4. Save the file. Restart Samba using the following command :

   "sudo /etc/rc.d/init.d/samba restart" and enter your credentials.

   Connect to the network share from your Windows computer.

Windows operating system

1. Insert the Windows installation CD and follow the on-screen instructions to install a basic Windows operating system.

2. Go to the folder you want to share once the operating system is installed.

3. Right-click on the folder you want to share. Select “share with” or “Share.” If you are using Windows XP or Vista, click on the “Share” button and select “Allow everyone to modify my files.”

4. Select “Home group read/write” if you are on Windows 7.

5. Connect to the network share from your Windows computer.

Tips & Warnings

• You may have to configure your firewall to allow access to share resources.

References

• Microsoft : How to configure file sharing in Windows XP