Can I build a NAS Server using TrueNAS on my HP Pavilion PC

[Thoughtful001]

Following are the specs of my desktop. I have two questions:

1. Is it doable

2. Is it worth it

Microprocessor: Pentium(R) Dual-Core CPU E5200 @ 2.50GHz

System memory: 8 GB

Memory slot 1: 2GB 7F7FFE0000000000 800MHz
Memory slot 2: 2GB 7F7FFE0000000000 800MHz
Memory slot 3: 2GB 7F7FFE0000000000 800MHz
Memory slot 4: 2GB 7F7FFE0000000000 800MHz

System board: Benicia 1.01

System BIOS: 5.40

Graphic device: Intel(R) G33/G31 Express Chipset Family (Microsoft Corporation - WDDM 1.0)

Version: 8.15.10.2697 (10-1-2012)

Expansion Slots:1 x PCI 32bit 2 x PCIe 2.0 x1 1 x PCIe 2.0 x16 

[VikramTheGreat · Accepted solution]

Hi @Thoughtful001,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

Thanks for the details. Short answers first:
 

1) Is it doable?
Yes, technically, you can install TrueNAS on your Pavilion p6133f. The machine is x86_64 capable, and you already have 8 GB of RAM, so it meets the very basic entry requirements for TrueNAS Core/SCALE. However, there are important limitations and risks to be aware of (see below).

2) Is it worth it?
That depends on your goals:

• If this is for learning, home lab experiments, or light file/backup use, it can be a good, inexpensive way to learn ZFS and network storage.
• If you want a reliable, long-term storage server for important data, backups, or heavy multi-user use, I would not recommend this machine without upgrades. TrueNAS (ZFS) works best with newer CPUs, more RAM, and ideally ECC memory. For production-grade NAS reliability, it’s generally better to use more modern hardware or a purpose-built NAS.

 
Please note: Related to the NAS, support is limited

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat