Summary: 2005-07-14 09:08:57 Background:
I currently run a home network with four computers, one HP wireless printer, and a TiVo. I am not a super tech guy, but am comfortable setting up and running a basic home network. Recently, I have been searching for a device that I could use to backup a few of the computers as well as do a little file sharing. Originally, I was going to just purchase a USB external hard drive and attach it to each computer as needed for backups.
After doing some research (reading CNET, PC Magazine, etc.), I came across the Network Attached Storage Devices. After doing some more homework, I concluded that the Buffalo Linkstation offered the best value and price. I purchased one off an Internet retailer for $218 all in.
Prior to purchasing the device, I called the Buffalo Linkstation folks both to get some background and also make sure that they technical support was good. I spoke with three different people, and had a good experience on the phone with each of them. Just one note: one person said that the Linkstation is really meant to be used as a back-up device and file sharing. It really is not a file server (i.e. you would not want to try to stream a video off the Linkstation, but rather copy to your PC hard drive and then watch it). I'm not 100% sure of this, but for my purposes, the Linkstation seemed to fit (backup and file sharing).
The Setup:
I popped the Linkstation out of the box, powered it up, connected it to my home network via ethernet (the only option), and had the basic functionality working in less than 10 minutes. The web configuration interface was very easy to use (though a little slow).
Here are a few suggestions when you do set the Linkstation up:
1) Print the Manual: The Linkstation comes with a basic installation guide, but I would highly recommend downloading the 60 page manual and printing prior to setup. It is a colorful guide that provides step-by-step instructions for all the features.
2) Set a Static IP Address: I believe the default for the linkstation is to use your router's DHCP to get an IP address automatically. I would recommend changing this option and selecting a static IP address. This will allow you to map your network drives on your PCs.
3) Update the Firmware: My Linkstation shipped with Firmware version 2.00. As of 7/14/05, Firmware version 2.04 is available. I called the Buffalo Tech support folks about a problem with the FTP functionality and they told me it was important to update the firmware. When you do this, please note the following: (1) You need to disable the firewall on the PC from which you are installing the new firmware (Windows XP especially), and (2) you need to disable any virus protection program. I was not able to find the new firmware on the Buffalo website, but I called the tech support folks and they gave me an FTP site from which to download it. All-in-all, it took about 10 minutes to upgrade the firmware.
Other Things to Note:
1) FTP Functionality: I am still having trouble getting the FTP remote access to work. It was not the primary reason I bought the device, so I am really not too concerned (though when I learned that the Linkstation functionality has that feaure, I was excited about using it). I had two problems, one which I am sure was with the Linkstation Setup, and the second which could be a router issue. The first had to do with setting up additional shared folders. I setup a few additional shared folders and then gave "group" access permissions. It wasn't until I took off the "group" access permissions, and just added each "individual" permission was I able to get the FTP to work internally from my network. Still haven't figured out the FTP remote access, but I have a feeling it might be the router set up (not the Linkstation).
2) USB Print Share: I mentioned that I have a wireless printer already, but I would highlight that it does have a USB print server which is a nice feature. Keep in mind that if you attach a multifunction printer, you will likely only be able to print (rather than print/fax/scan) as a multifunction printer requires two-way communcation.
3) External USB Drive: You can also add ONE USB harddrive to the Linkstation. It can be used to either backup the Linkstation or as additional storage. Keep in mind that the external drive would need to be formatted by the Linkstation and uses a Linux format so you won't be able to just disconnect the USB drive from the Linkstation and plug it directly into a PC.
4) Backup Software: The Linkstation comes with a very basic backup program, but I would highly recommend getting a more robust one.
Concluding Thoughts:
I am extremely happy with my purchase. The setup was easy and fast. There was no special software that I need run on my individual PCs. On the first night of use, I was able to backup two computers at the same time at 10/100 speeds. Good job Buffalo!
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