Keep in mind that not all devices use the same type of file. The NAS can perform transcoding to deliver one type of media to any type of device.

If it has a slow processor or small amount of RAM, then it will be more susceptible to buffering or lag. Its purpose is to provide high-quality video to one or even multiple sources without buffering. How many roles do you want the machine to fulfill? How much time do you have to sink into this project? Are you a very “tech-savvy” individual or do you know enough to get by? What’s your budget? NAS Enclosure Media ServerĪ NAS (network-attached storage) media server is an enclosure with slots or bays for hard drives and has the ability to distribute files/media throughout a network. When using a NAS as a media server, it will need to have a decent processor and RAM/memory. Buy a NAS Enclosure or Set Up a Computer as the Media ServerĬhoosing whether to buy a NAS or to build/repurpose a computer to use as a media server is dependant upon a few things. It’s a lot to go over, but I’ll make this as simple as I can! 1. This includes whether you should use a NAS enclosure or a regular computer, what type of hard drives you should use, connecting the device to your home network and how it should be configured, what apps or programs you should use and how to transfer your files. We will go in-depth on all of the above steps. Begin using your media server as a streaming service, back up storage solution, etc.įor a more detailed explanation of each step, continue reading.Transfer the files to the hard drives and install any apps you would like to use.Connect the media server to the network via an Ethernet cable(s).Install hard drives to store the media files.Buy a NAS or set up a dedicated computer.Here are the general steps for setting it up: So, how do you set up a media server for a home theater? The process for setting up a media server is not all that complicated. With this type of system, you are able to watch view content on a connected television or stream it through your home network on various devices. The media server is made possible through the use of a NAS (Network Attached Storage) enclosure or a dedicated computer. They have many different uses, but its main responsibility is to provide media such as movies, tv shows, games, music, etc. You’ve probably heard about home media servers or media centers.

Network attached storage music server