Chapter 10:

FILE SERVER

Set up a centralized file server on your network for easy and secure file access from any device. This setup uses the Samba protocol, a standard for sharing files across different operating systems.

1. Creating a Storage Directory: Start by creating and setting the permissions for your storage directory:

   sudo mkdir /home/pi/Storage

   sudo chmod 777 -R /home/pi/Storage

   sudo chown pi -R /home/pi/Storage

2. Installing and Configuring Samba: Install Samba, a software that enables file sharing across different systems:

   sudo apt-get install samba -y

   Then, edit the Samba configuration file:

   sudo nano /etc/samba/smb.conf

   Add or modify the following sections in the configuration file:

   [global]

   netbios name = server

   server string = server

   workgroup = WORKGROUP

   security = user

   [NAServer]

   comment = NAServer

   path = "/home/pi/Storage"

   public = yes

   guest ok = yes

   read only = no

   Note: Ensure the path is set to your newly created storage directory.

3. Setting Up User Access: Create a Samba user linked to your Raspberry Pi account:

   sudo pdbedit -a -u pi

   You will be prompted to create a password for this Samba user.

4. Restarting Samba Service: Apply the changes by restarting the Samba daemon:

   sudo service smbd restart

5. Accessing the File Server: Your files are now accessible from any device on the network. Use the following address in a File Explorer:

   smb://[Raspberry Pi's IP address]

   Replace [Raspberry Pi's IP address] with the actual IP address of your Raspberry Pi.

This setup turns your Raspberry Pi into a powerful file server, allowing for convenient and flexible access to your files from various devices within your network. The Samba protocol ensures compatibility across different operating systems, making it a versatile solution for home or small office networks.