Brkdncr

I manage storage systems as part of my day job. i think you would be happy with a simple direct attached storage device. You’d need a storage controller card and a storage controller. These are usually enterprise-grade items so they might be expensive. I suspect there are SATA options but SATA is pretty slow.

QNAP and Synology are decent for what they offer, if you like the idea if turning it on, setting up an account, and then having access to both native and an easy 3rd-party store with no fiddling needed then they are a good idea. You can also setup an iSCSI connection for direct-attached storage over the network.

Why keep such an accomplishment secret?

It depends, but the weakest link will likely be whatever is performing NAT.

You want to use as little space as possible tonsave on cost.

A server with ipmi is ideal.

A hardware vpn firewall is a good idea.

Do you need to provide your own router or switch?

I’m a huge proponent of Linux but unless your business is locking down linux you’re better off getting an off-the-shelf OS that’s simple to maintain so you can make money with your core business. ChromeOS is your best bet.