Hello everyone,
I have been using a WHS V1 (HP Mediasmart 470) for years now, without issues.
A recent laptop purchase came with Windows 8.1 installed. I initially had some issues connecting to it (I ended up not using my Microsoft account to log in to the laptop), but know that V1 does not support windows 8.
I have been debating how to upgrade my server. The two options I am considering (both would use a home-built rig) are:
1. Windows 8.1 pro.
2. Windows Server Essentials 2012.
The server is used mainly as a repository for large amounts of family photos and videos, and to backup the household computers (all windows based for now).
If possible I would like to retain the cluster backup feature of V1, to avoid file duplication.
Mirroring (aka file duplication) is also essential to me, to protect against drive failure.
Are there significant benefits of one over the other? I understand that the WSE 2012 is more of an enterprise product and may have many features I will never use, but am still getting used to windows 8.1, and am not clear on its limitations as a server.
One other detail - I have an Xbox One in the main living area, and would like to be able to stream media to it from the server (the aforementioned family videos). I assume Play To functionality is restricted to Win8, but am not certain.
Regards,
JP