Hey

Ive just acquired a second computer from university and im wanting to set it up as a sort of server so i can backup files, store large files to free up space on my laptop and also so it can be accessible by all the computers that are connected to the wireless network i have setup (allowing everyone connected can get onto the net).

I have no idea what to do, what software i need or if it is even possible. Any tips, useful sites or advice would be greatly appreciated. Hopefully what im looking to do is relatively clear

Cheers
Stoot

The simple way is to set it up with XP and connect it to the home network. Set the files and folders you want to be shared and with which other users you want to share them. Not all users have to be given permission to all files/folders.

Then writing to or from the "sever" as you called it is as simple as writing to any other device on your laptop.

A personal example, on our home network I have read write permissions to everthing on my wifes computer. She has access to the printer that is connected to my computer and she has read permission for a couple of folders on my hard drive.

Now if you are wanting a linux box that is a whole nuther critter.