Whats the difference between file server and 2nd pc?

[xSteathx]

I see a lot of people with "File servers" what makes that pc a file server. I got a second pc in my sig, that could be a file server, I guess?

 

[tiraides]

Yep. A file server is simply a (networked) location where you store your stuff.

People use their secondary (often older) rigs as file servers for the sake of convenience.

 

[NightOps]

Often the 2nd PC/FS is a machine dedicated to storage - typically for multiple users, and typically is running a Server-grade OS. In my case, I have a PowerEdge 1420SC that is overkill for just FS usage, so I made it my DC/DNS/DHCP/IIS as well. I also installed Hamachi on it so I can 'VPN' into it and accessing it quasi-locally when @ work. The great part about this is that I don't have to mess with my main rig or dump additional power requirements on it to support all the drives/etc, or any additional cooling either.

My FS is used to store my entire Profile for both my wife and I (roaming enabled), and all in RAID5. Many people end up swapping out a FS for a NAS, since they are 'virtually' the same thing (if using explicity for external - typically RAIDed - storage).