How to setup a file server over the Internet?

Question

I would like to be able to access the files in my desktop at home from anywhere over the Internet.

I don't know much, but I think that would involve setting up a FTP server, right? Can you please point me in the right direction - some reference materials and tutorials?

Solution

I would discourage you to use FTP, as it's a clear text protocol without any security.

Instead, I suggest you use ssh. Then you get both secure remote shell access and file transfer, all in one service. apt-get install openssh-server and you are good to go. Then you can connect to your machine through for instance Places -> Connect to server on a Gnome desktop, sftp in a shell, or using WinSCP on Windows.

To reach your machine, even with a dynamic ip, you could use a free dynamic dns service such as DynDNS or FreeDNS, which will give you a hostname such as mybox.uni.cx.

NAT is no issue either, as long as you forward the correct port to your machine. (tcp 22 in case of ssh)

Comments

[JGNog]

Static IP address. Isn't that a problem in a typical home internet connection?

[JGNog]

Remote shell access would be even better. Thank you for that suggestion!

[JGNog]

DynDNS - that is great!

[JGNog]

I won't use this feature heavily, so the upload cap will not be a problem. I will investigate if my ISP blocks any ports. Thank you.

[Barafu Albino]

For me, for example, it would be easier to get static IP (200 rub = 6$ per month) then setting up any comlicated scheme.