This project is sourced from another site, not written by us — this list is our best match of their components against what we stock, not a verified bill of materials. Always check the original blog (linked above) for the actual parts list before buying.
This project transforms a Raspberry Pi into a functional network-attached storage (NAS) device by connecting external storage hardware and configuring file-sharing software. At the core of the system is the Raspberry Pi running the Raspbian operating system from an SD card. Because spinning up mechanical hard drives draws significant electrical current—especially upon startup—the two NTFS-formatted USB external hard drives and the Raspberry Pi are connected through a powered USB hub to ensure stable voltage and prevent brownouts or sudden reboots. Once the physical hardware is securely wired and powered, the software layer takes over. The Raspberry Pi utilizes the ntfs-3g driver to seamlessly read and write data to the Windows-compatible NTFS file system on the external drives. To make these drives accessible across your local network, Samba software is installed and configured. Samba implements the SMB/CIFS networking protocol, effectively translating Linux file directories into shared network folders that Windows, macOS, and mobile devices can discover. Users can connect to the Raspberry Pi's IP address from other computers on the same network to transfer files, stream media, and execute automated backups without needing direct physical access to the storage drives.
Why Build This
Create a centralized, always-on location to share homework assignments, projects, and media files across all computers in your home.
Learn how to repurpose single-board computers into practical, money-saving alternatives to expensive commercial network storage hardware.
Gain hands-on experience setting up local data backups to protect important school projects from accidental loss.
Real-World Application
Home network file sharing, media streaming, and automated local data backups without the need for expensive commercial NAS hardware.
Skills You'll Learn
Network file sharing protocol configuration
Linux file system mounting
external power management for USB peripherals
operating system software installation via SD card
Safety Precautions
Ensure the external USB hard drives and Raspberry Pi are powered adequately, preferably using a powered USB hub to prevent power drops.
Technology Tags
RASPBERRY PI
NAS
NETWORK STORAGE
SAMBA
LINUX
USB HARD DRIVE
NTFS
SSH
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the project specifically utilizes NTFS-formatted drives alongside the ntfs-3g software package, allowing the Raspberry Pi to read and write to them without reformatting.
Mechanical USB hard drives draw a lot of electrical power, particularly when spinning up. Plugging two of them directly into a Raspberry Pi can overload its power limits and cause the system to crash or lose data, making a powered hub essential for stability.
Yes, as long as the other devices are connected to the same local network and you have properly configured the Samba software, any computer or compatible device can access the shared folders.
Gallery
This page is part of Kitkraft's Project Hub — a curated collection of electronics & robotics projects gathered from the maker community to help students and hobbyists discover and learn to build. Kitkraft does not claim authorship of the original project, and makes no representation as to the accuracy, completeness or safety of third-party source material. The summary and "How It Works" explanation above are AI-generated, rewritten with reference to the original tutorial — not a reproduction of it. Full credit and a direct link to the original source are provided above. If you're the original creator and have a concern about how your work is represented here, please contact us and we'll address it promptly.
Raspberry Pi 3 - Model B+ 1.4Ghz 64-bit quad-core Processor with 1 GB Ram (Original)
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