Turn Your Old PC into a Local File Storage Server with Linux and NextCloud

In an era where cloud services reign supreme, many of us still value the privacy and control that comes with hosting our own data. Repurposing an old PC as a local file storage solution not only helps reduce e-waste but also gives you full ownership of your files and data. In this post, we’ll walk through how to install a Linux server instance and set up NextCloud—a powerful open-source file sharing and collaboration platform—so you can run your own private cloud at home or in your business.

Why Use Your Old PC as a Local File Server?

Your old PC can be transformed into a versatile file server that:

• Keeps your data private: No third-party snooping or dependence on external cloud providers.
• Enables collaboration: NextCloud’s suite of apps lets you share, edit, and collaborate on documents.
• Saves money: Utilize existing hardware and avoid recurring subscription fees.
• Offers customization: Tailor your file server to your own needs, whether it’s for personal backups or business file sharing.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following:

• An old PC: Even machines with modest specs can run a lightweight Linux server.
• A Linux distribution: We recommend Ubuntu Server or Debian for stability and ease of use.
• Basic peripherals: A monitor, keyboard, and mouse for initial setup (you can later manage the server remotely via SSH).
• Internet connection: For downloading packages and updates.
• A backup plan: Always back up important data before repurposing hardware.

Step 1: Installing a Linux Server Instance

1.1. Choose Your Distribution

For beginners and enthusiasts alike, Ubuntu Server is a popular choice due to its extensive community support and straightforward installation process. Alternatively, Debian offers a leaner experience if you prefer a minimalistic setup.

1.2. Create a Bootable USB

1. Download the ISO: Grab the latest Ubuntu Server ISO from the official website.
2. Create a bootable USB drive: Use tools like Rufus (for Windows) or Etcher (cross-platform) to write the ISO to a USB stick.
3. Boot your old PC: Insert the USB drive and change the boot order in the BIOS to boot from USB.

1.3. Install the Server OS

Follow the installation prompts:

• Configure language and keyboard: Choose your language and keyboard layout.
• Partition your drive: For a dedicated server, a guided partitioning scheme works fine. If you’re comfortable, manually partition for more control.
• Set up a user account: Create an administrative user.
• Install OpenSSH: When prompted, include OpenSSH server support so you can manage your server remotely.

Once the installation is complete, remove the USB drive and reboot your system.

Step 2: Preparing the Server Environment

2.1. Update Your System

After logging in, update your package lists and install any available updates:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

2.2. Install Essential Packages

Next, install a few necessary packages including Apache (or your preferred web server), PHP, and MariaDB (a popular MySQL alternative):

sudo apt install apache2 mariadb-server libapache2-mod-php7.4 php7.4 php7.4-mysql php7.4-xml php7.4-mbstring php7.4-curl php7.4-zip php7.4-gd -y

Note: Replace “php7.4” with the version available in your repository if it’s newer.

2.3. Secure Your MariaDB Installation

Run the security script to set a root password and remove insecure defaults:

sudo mysql_secure_installation

Follow the prompts to secure your database server.

Step 3: Installing NextCloud

3.1. Download NextCloud

Change to a temporary directory and download the latest NextCloud release:

cd /tmp
wget https://download.nextcloud.com/server/releases/nextcloud-25.0.0.zip

Be sure to check NextCloud’s website for the most current version.

3.2. Extract and Move NextCloud

Unzip the downloaded file and move the NextCloud folder to your web server’s root directory:

sudo apt install unzip -y
unzip nextcloud-25.0.0.zip
sudo mv nextcloud /var/www/

3.3. Set Proper Permissions

Ensure Apache can write to the NextCloud directory:

sudo chown -R www-data:www-data /var/www/nextcloud
sudo chmod -R 755 /var/www/nextcloud

3.4. Configure Apache

Create a new Apache configuration file for NextCloud:

sudo nano /etc/apache2/sites-available/nextcloud.conf

Paste the following configuration:

<VirtualHost *:80>
    DocumentRoot /var/www/nextcloud
    ServerName your-domain-or-ip

    <Directory /var/www/nextcloud/>
        Require all granted
        AllowOverride All
        Options FollowSymLinks MultiViews
    </Directory>

    ErrorLog ${APACHE_LOG_DIR}/nextcloud_error.log
    CustomLog ${APACHE_LOG_DIR}/nextcloud_access.log combined
</VirtualHost>

Replace your-domain-or-ip with your server’s IP address or domain name if you have one. Enable the site and the necessary Apache modules:

sudo a2ensite nextcloud.conf
sudo a2enmod rewrite headers env dir mime
sudo systemctl reload apache2

3.5. Set Up the NextCloud Database

Log into MariaDB:

sudo mysql -u root -p

Then create a database and user for NextCloud:

CREATE DATABASE nextcloud;
CREATE USER 'ncuser'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED BY 'your_strong_password';
GRANT ALL PRIVILEGES ON nextcloud.* TO 'ncuser'@'localhost';
FLUSH PRIVILEGES;
EXIT;

Replace your_strong_password with a secure password.

Step 4: Finalizing Your NextCloud Setup

4.1. Complete the Web Installer

Open a web browser and navigate to your server’s IP address or domain. You should see the NextCloud setup page. Enter the following details:

• Admin Account: Create your admin username and password.
• Data Folder: Leave the default or customize it as needed.
• Database Settings: Choose “MySQL/MariaDB” and input the database name, username, and password you set up earlier.

Click “Finish setup,” and NextCloud will complete the installation.

4.2. Explore NextCloud’s Features

Once installed, you can begin:

• Uploading files: Drag and drop files via the web interface.
• Syncing data: Use NextCloud’s desktop and mobile clients to keep your files updated.
• Installing Apps: Enhance functionality with calendar, contacts, collaborative document editing, and more.

Step 5: Securing and Optimizing Your Server

5.1. Enable HTTPS

For secure access, it’s recommended to use HTTPS. If you have a domain name, consider using Let’s Encrypt to obtain a free SSL certificate:

sudo apt install certbot python3-certbot-apache -y
sudo certbot --apache -d your-domain.com

Follow the prompts to complete the SSL setup.

5.2. Regular Backups

Maintain regular backups of your NextCloud data and database to prevent data loss. Tools like rsync or dedicated backup solutions can automate this process.

5.3. Monitor and Update

• System Updates: Regularly update your server with security patches.
• NextCloud Updates: Keep an eye on NextCloud updates to ensure you benefit from the latest features and fixes.

Tips and Tricks

• Remote Management: Utilize SSH and secure tunnels to manage your server from anywhere.
• Customization: Explore NextCloud’s app store to extend your server’s functionality—whether for collaborative editing or calendar integrations.
• Hardware Considerations: If your old PC has limited resources, consider a lightweight Linux distro or adjust NextCloud’s resource settings for better performance.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can breathe new life into an old PC, turning it into a powerful local file storage and collaboration hub. Not only does this provide a secure and private alternative to commercial cloud services, but it also offers endless customization opportunities for personal or business use. With Linux as your stable foundation and NextCloud as your flexible cloud solution, you’re well on your way to a smarter, self-hosted future.