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It seems that most routers (2011) actually offer USB support and sharing media. However I've heard lots of horrors concerning firmware and all. I am looking for a networked hard disk of 2TB size, so I can use it for backups and watch my videos files (with a TV and all computers).

My questions are..

  1. Would you recommend a networked HDD or a router with USB support (where an HDD can be attached and shared over the network)? Would there be any disadvantages from choosing one over the other?

  2. If you recommend a networked HDD – since my 4 ports are used – does that mean I need a switch or hub?

slhck
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Rushino
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3 Answers3

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The USB port on most routers are meant for printer or occasional file sharing. The CPU and memory in most of them are not nearly enough for any serious file transfer operations. You're probably looking at 5-6MB/s transfer speed which means for any large file you will probably save time by walking to the router, unplugging the drive and plugging it in to your own computer's USB.

You will need at least a 500MHz ARM-based CPU (Intel is much better), 256MB RAM and gigabit ethernet if you want performance and unfortunately, you can only find this kind of spec in "NAS grade" devices.

In conclusion, you'll probably need a NAS device (perhaps an entry level one, like the "network hd" kind you mentioned) and a gagabit ethernet switch.

billc.cn
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As far as number 2 is concerned, get a switch. It may be marginally more expensive than a hub (assuming you can even get a hub), but it will provide higher performance as your network expands over time. There's a nice answer which describes why is that here.

Community
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AndrejaKo
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As far as strategy, neither of your solutions is a good fit. There are dedicated NAS (Network Attached Storage) boxes. Choose amongst those.

jamesson
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