Network or external drive for convenient backup storage?

[kyudrew]

I have used Buffalo's Linkstation (160gb) Network drive for a couple of years.
I used it at the beginning a little bit, but didn't use much after for the following reasons:

1. Its transfer speed is too slow (maybe around 10-15mb/sec). Slow speed may be caused by
my slow wireless network connection (802.11G). The speed of network drive maybe fine.

2. The setup of network drive was too complicated (maybe only buffalo one...or maybe it's 2-3 year old)
and not stable at all (even if other computers can communicate within the network, it was often not connected).

3. Its size is only 160gb. I need a bigger storage as time goes by.

Then, now I am thinking to buy an external (or internal + external enclosure) drive as a backup drive.
I do know that it is not automatic as network drive (I have to manually connect between the drive and
a computer...not all computers can access the drive at the same time). But, it is fairly easy and
very fast. Also, it gives a lot of space (up to 500gb) at a very good price, as compared to
much higher price of network storage.

I don't do serious regular backup everyday (or maybe every week). Whenever I have new data and multimedia
files, I just want to store them into a backup drive (as backup). But, if I have a backup drive always available
at my network, it would be great.

So, I am wondering what would be the best way to build a backup storage, given my situation.
Is there any way I can have an external drive always be available at my network, at the same time
I can use it as regular external (usb or firewire) drive whenever I needed?

If no, do I have to choose either fast/easy backup or convenient (I am still wondering how much...
how reliable the current network storage is)?

It would be greatly helpful if you give your advice in detail. Thanks in advance.

 

[Ime]

Get a USB 2.0 external HDD and hook it up to this puppy.

Problem solved.

 

[kyudrew]

I did see some network storage link like the Linksys one, but some people complained about its compatibility (linux based) and speed.

What about ximeta NDAS Etherneet/USB 2.0 Enclosure (+ buying an internal drive, which is cheaper than external one)?
It looks like they use little unique technology (without using TCP/IP), but their speed seems to be fast (don't know how
reliable their connection is). I probably can use it as ian ndedendent USB drive.

I am also wondering if this enclosure had a fan (a must for always-on network storage) and how good they control
the inside drive (like idling activity, noise, etc.).