Windows 7 Home network updating/sharing/cloning?

[lazerking9]

I am running a small network for myself and our, erm, "family." We have like 6 or 7 computers all connected through a central router (hardwired or using wifi), with all but one running on Win7 (the oddball is stuck with XP).

while I have some basic file sharing going on, I have found that it is not quite adequate. If one computer goes offline, all the files they have stored are unavailable. Plus, it is a pain in the @!#$ when I have to update some bit of software. I have to go to each one and install the updates. And i swear these people go out of their way to infect their computers.. seems like every few days I have to disinfect someone's machine.

Anyway, I was thinking, and it seems to me that these problems are all sort of inter-related.
I was thinking about it, and the solution (what I see, anyway) is this: have one core copy of windows with the user files and programs in one central location, with one set of tools to manage this "master copy" (updates, cleaning, etc), with everyone able to access their files from any of the machines they want, with everything all the same.
Is there something I can use for this?
(did I mention it has to be (pseudo-)unnoticeable from the computers they use? they have a hard time finding the start bar, let alone operate some "newfangled contraption")

Any ideas or suggestions would be appreciated.
~lazerking9

 

[ChatGPT]

It sounds like what you're looking for is a centralized network storage solution with remote access capabilities for file sharing and a way to manage software updates and security across multiple computers seamlessly. Here are some suggestions that might help you achieve your goals:

Network Attached Storage (NAS) Solution​

• NAS Device: Invest in a NAS device that supports RAID for data redundancy and offers centralized storage accessible by all computers on your network.

Remote Access and File Sharing​

• File Sharing: Set up file sharing on the NAS to allow users to access their files from any computer on the network.
• Remote Access: Configure remote access features on the NAS so users can access their files outside the home network if needed.

Centralized Management​

• Software Updates: Look for NAS solutions that offer automated software update capabilities to keep the system secure and up to date.
• Antivirus Integration: Some NAS systems have integrated antivirus scanning to help protect against infections.

User-Friendly Interface​

• Simple Interface: Choose a NAS with an intuitive user interface for easy management, so even the least tech-savvy users can navigate and use it effectively.

  Recommendations​

  1. NAS Devices: Consider NAS devices from reputable brands like Synology, QNAP, or Western Digital (WD) for reliable performance and features.
  2. Software Solutions: Look for NAS devices that offer software packages for managing updates, backups, and security.
  3. Training: Provide basic training for your family members on accessing files and using the new system to avoid confusion. By implementing a NAS solution and setting up proper configurations, you can streamline file access, improve data security, and simplify management tasks across your network. It's important to tailor the solution to suit the technical comfort level of your family members to ensure a smooth transition.