Turn a spare PC into a home server

Updated 26 October 2026

A spare PC can store files, stream media and back up your devices.

Steps

1. Install a stable system such as Debian or Ubuntu Server.
2. Give it a fixed address on your network.
3. Share folders with Samba.
4. Add automatic backups.

Keep it updated and protect it with a strong password.

More guides

• How much storage do you need on a USB drive?
• Looking after your bootable USB drive
• What is Ubuntu? Who it is for

Browse Linux USB drives See all products