Setting up an FTP

[danthegeek]

Im looking for a bit of help setting up an FTP server just to have private access to while im not home. I wanted to use just XP pro instead of a third party software but im not having much luck. So, lets just say I have no idea what im doing because I dont. I dont even know how to go about setting up an IP address for the server. Im just lost.

Thanks
-Dan

[mtekk]

I take it you realize the security risk you are opening yourself up to by doing this. IIS will do basic FTP serving, look at http://www.pcstats.com/articleview.cfm?articleid=1491&page=2 for how to set it up.

[danthegeek]

I dont mind using a third party software such as Serv U if it would be best. I know nothing is secure so I accept the risk if someone decides they want in. I just have no idea what im doing as far as setting it up. Also, do i need to create a domain name at a site like n-oip.com ? Im pretty lost with all of this since I realy havent messed with creating an ftp before. Only simple file sharing server on my home network. I just now want to expand it to allow me to access some of the files when im not home.

[mtekk]

After you setup the FTP serving software, you should be able to test it within your lan. Once you can confirm that works, then you'll need to figure out your external IP address. You'll probably will need a n-oip.com address, especially if you have a dynamic IP address (which is the case for most residential broadband services). Then you'll most likely have to open up port 21 (or what ever one you have your FTP server listening to) on your router to be forwarded to your FTP server.

[slytherock]

My personnal recommendation: FreeNAS (http://www.freenas.org/)

Really easy to set up your FTP; manage users and all. and more: ITS FREE!!!

[SgtM]

It's pretty simple really. Install/configure your FTP server software. Test it across your LAN. Next, configure your server with a static IP address. Then, go into your router, and forward everthing on port 21 to whatever IP address you gave your server. Now, unless you're using something like www.dyndns.org, you won't be able to hit it by name.. you'll have to use your WAN IP address. To find out what that is, go to www.whatismyip.com. (Or to have fun with it.. google moan my IP).

[danthegeek]

Thanks guys, got it all setup but im not sure if its working because the onboard gigabyte died. Im going to get a new NIC and give it a try tomorrow.

Thanks
-Dan

[AMD Killa]

You could just use Windows Live Skydrive. Yes, it's made by microsoft, but you get 25GB of free storage, and the permissions are all done by live accounts.

As far as I know, you can map the space as a network drive :)