Build Your Own Raspberry Pi NAS with OpenMediaVault: A Beginner's Guide

Dec 2, 2024

What is OpenMediaVault?

OpenMediaVault (OMV) is a free, open-source operating system designed to create and manage a Network-Attached Storage (NAS) system. Built on Debian Linux, OMV provides a robust and flexible platform for storing, sharing, and securing data across a network, making it an excellent choice for home users, small offices, and DIY enthusiasts.

OpenMediaVault offers a range of key features that make it an effective and versatile NAS solution. It supports multiple file-sharing protocols such as SMB/CIFS for Windows and macOS integration, FTP for straightforward file transfers, NFS for Linux environments, and Rsync for backups and synchronization. Disk and volume management are robust, with options for RAID configurations to enhance data redundancy and performance, S.M.A.R.T. monitoring to check disk health, and quotas to limit user storage.

User and permission management is comprehensive, allowing administrators to set detailed access controls and ensure security across the network. OMV also supports remote access with SSL/TLS encryption and can be integrated with VPNs for secure connections. These features make it suitable for a wide range of uses, from home media servers to small office storage solutions.

Why Use Raspberry Pi for OpenMediaVault (OMV)?

Benefits of using Raspberry Pi

Cost-Effectiveness
√ Raspberry Pi is significantly cheaper than traditional NAS solutions or dedicated servers.
√ No licensing fees: OMV is open-source and free to use.

Energy Efficiency
√ Raspberry Pi consumes very little power (typically <10 watts), making it ideal for 24/7 operation.
√ Low operating costs compared to full-sized servers or desktop computers.

Suitable for Small-Scale Usage
√ Perfect for home users or small offices needing a simple NAS for:
   o File sharing.
   o Media streaming.
   o Automated backups.
√ Handles light to moderate workloads efficiently.

Easy Hardware Expansion
√ Add external storage devices (HDDs, SSDs) via USB 3.0 ports (on Raspberry Pi 4 and newer).
√ Compatible with powered USB hubs for connecting multiple drives.
√ Optional add-ons like HATs for power management or network enhancements.

Use Cases

Personal Cloud StorageUsing
Using OMV with tools like Nextcloud allows we to create a private cloud storage solution. It offers the functionality of services like Dropbox or Google Drive, but with complete control over your data. We can sync files across devices, share documents securely, and access files remotely.

Automated Backups
OMV is perfect for creating automated backup solutions. With Rsync or Time Machine support, it can back up files from multiple devices across the network. This setup is invaluable for protecting critical data and ensuring redundancy without manual intervention.

Small Office File Sharing
For small businesses, OMV acts as a cost-effective file-sharing system. It allows employees to store and access shared files over the network using protocols like SMB or FTP. Administrators can manage permissions to ensure secure collaboration and data privacy.

Centralized Storage for IoT Devices
IoT setups generate logs and data that require centralized storage. OMV provides a hub for collecting and storing data from smart home devices, sensors, or other IoT endpoints. This setup is useful for home automation enthusiasts or small IoT projects.

Photo and Video Backup for Creatives
Photographers and videographers can use OMV to store and manage large media files. With RAID configurations, it provides redundancy for protecting valuable work, while plugins like SnapRAID ensure file integrity.

Required Hardware

● Raspberry Pi: Raspberry Pi 5 recommended for better performance
● Raspberry Pi OS lite: 32-bit is sufficient, but 64-bit can provide better performance
● MicroSD card: 32GB recommend CLASS 10
● Network connection: Ethernet
● External USB Storage: USB 3.0 for better write/read performance with SSD/HDD disks
● M.2 Hat: Enables we to connect M.2 peripherals such as NVMe drives

Installation Steps

Prepare the Raspberry Pi

1.Install Raspberry Pi OS Lite (IMPORTANT version “LITE” not with Desktop Enviroment)
https://www.sunfounder.com/blogs/news/raspberry-pi-operation-system-complete-guide-to-versions-features-and-setup

2.Update the System
https://www.sunfounder.com/blogs/news/raspberry-pi-update-essential-steps-for-a-secure-and-optimized-system

Install OpenMediaVault

1.Download and run the installation script on the terminal:
wget -O - https://github.com/OpenMediaVault-Plugin-Developers/installScript/raw/master/install | sudo bash

2.After installation, open a browser and navigate to http://<RPI_IP_ADDRESS>.
Note the Raspberry Pi's IP address: hostname -I

Log in using the default credentials:
● Username: admin
● Raspberry Pi: Raspberry Pi 5 for optimal performance.

Configure OMV

1.Change default admin password:
Go to Icon User and Change
Password.

2.Update OMV:
After logging in, go to System > Update Management in the web interface to install the latest updates.

3.Connect Storage Drives:
Attach USB drives or HDDs to the Raspberry Pi.
Mount and format the drives via Storage > File Systems in the OMV interface.
Check the USB drive is detected:

Mount a File System:

(Example with Pendrive 8GB)

Advanced Configuration

SMB/CIFS shares

Use Services > SMB/CIFS to configure shared folders for network access.
1.We need to create a Shared Folder: Go to Storage > Shared Folders and create it in the USB drive.

2.Go to SMB/CIFS on Services tab and enable the serivces and the shared folder.

Example on Windows:

Configuring User Permissions for Shared Folders

1.Go to Storage > Shared Folders and select the folder.
2.Click on Set permissions
3.Assign specific permissions to users and groups:
Select the user or group and choose access types (Read/Write, Read-Only, No Access).

Install Plugins:

Expand OMV functionality through System > Plugins (e.g., Plex, Docker). We can install open source antivirus like Clamav

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Web Interface Not Accessible
Ensure the web service is running:
Run in terminal:sudo systemctl status nginx

Restart if necessary:
Run in terminal: sudo systemctl restart nginx
Storage Drive Not Detected
Verify the drive is connected securely (check USB cables or SATA connections):
Run in terminal: lsblk & lsusb

If not formatted, format the drive under Storage > Disks and create a file system in Storage > File Systems.
Ensure the drive is mounted under File Systems.

Conclusion

Setting up OpenMediaVault on a Raspberry Pi is an excellent way to build a cost-effective, energy-efficient, and versatile Network-Attached Storage (NAS) solution. Whether you’re looking to create a personal cloud, automate backups, or centralize file storage for a small office or IoT devices, this guide provides the essential steps to get started. By leveraging the power of Raspberry Pi and the flexibility of OpenMediaVault, you can enjoy a fully customizable and secure NAS tailored to your needs. With proper maintenance and the addition of advanced features, your Raspberry Pi NAS can serve as a reliable and scalable solution for years to come.