How to turn Linksys router into network storage server?

Turning your Linksys router into a network storage server (NAS) is possible if your router has a USB port that supports external storage. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Check Your Router’s Compatibility

1. Ensure your Linksys router has a USB port.
2. Check if the router firmware supports USB storage sharing (consult the user manual or Linksys website).
3. If your router doesn’t natively support USB storage, you may need to install custom firmware (like OpenWrt or DD-WRT) for additional features.

Step 2: Connect a USB Drive or External Hard Drive

1. Format your storage drive (if needed) to FAT32, NTFS, or exFAT (check the router’s supported formats).
2. Plug the USB drive into the router’s USB port.

Step 3: Enable Network Storage on Your Router

1. Access the Linksys Router Web Interface:

   • Open a web browser and go to http://192.168.1.1 (or your router’s IP address).
   • Log in with your admin username and password.

2. Enable USB Storage:

   • Navigate to External Storage or Storage Settings.
   • Locate USB Storage or File Sharing options.
   • Enable Media Server (optional) if you want to stream files.

3. Set Up Network Access:

   • Choose Share Mode (SMB, FTP, or DLNA).
   • Assign user access permissions if required.
   • Note the network address (e.g., \192.168.1.1 or smb://192.168.1.1).

Step 4: Access Your Network Storage

From Windows:

1. Press Win + R, type \\192.168.1.1, and press Enter.
2. The shared USB storage should appear.
3. You can map it as a network drive by right-clicking and selecting "Map Network Drive."

From Mac:

1. Open Finder and click Go > Connect to Server.
2. Type smb://192.168.1.1 and click Connect.

Optional: Remote Access

• Some Linksys routers support FTP or cloud storage, allowing access from outside your network.
• Configure Dynamic DNS (DDNS) and port forwarding if needed.