OpenMediaVault 7 (OMV7) Setup Made Easy: Step-by-Step Guide! - Episode 1

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive step-by-step guide to setting up OpenMediaVault 7 (OMV7) from scratch. Whether you're using dedicated hardware or a virtual machine, this guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring you have a smooth installation experience and access to OMV7’s improved features.

Step 1: Gather Requirements

Before starting the installation, ensure you have the following:

• A computer with either dedicated hardware or a virtual machine environment (e.g., Proxmox).
• OpenMediaVault 7 ISO file.
• A USB drive (if using dedicated hardware) for bootable media.
• A stable internet connection for downloading resources and updates.

Step 2: Download the OpenMediaVault 7 ISO

• Visit the official OpenMediaVault website: OpenMediaVault Downloads.
• Download the latest OMV7 ISO file suitable for your hardware or VM setup.

Step 3: Create Bootable Media

If you're using dedicated hardware, you need to create a bootable USB drive:

1. Insert your USB drive into your computer.
2. Use software like Rufus or Balena Etcher to create bootable media.
3. Select the downloaded OMV7 ISO file and follow the prompts to complete the process.

Step 4: Configure BIOS/UEFI Settings

For dedicated hardware, adjust your BIOS/UEFI settings to boot from the USB drive:

1. Restart your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, F10, or DEL during boot).
2. Navigate to the boot options and set the USB drive as the primary boot device.
3. Save your settings and exit.

Step 5: Set Up a Basic VM (If Applicable)

If you're using a virtual machine, perform the following steps:

1. Open your virtualization software (e.g., Proxmox).
2. Create a new VM and allocate resources (CPU, RAM, storage).
3. Attach the OMV7 ISO file to the VM as the boot disk.
4. Start the VM to initiate the installation process.

Step 6: Install OpenMediaVault 7

Once you boot from the USB or ISO image:

1. Follow the installation prompts.
2. Set a hostname for your server.
3. Choose your time zone.

Configure disk settings

• Select the disk where OMV7 will be installed.
4. Set up network settings as prompted.

Step 7: Complete the Installation

• Patience is key; the installation may take some time.
• Once completed, reboot the system as instructed.

Step 8: Log Into OMV for the First Time

After rebooting:

1. Open a web browser and enter the IP address of your OMV server.
2. Log in using the default credentials provided during the setup.

Step 9: Explore the OMV Dashboard

• Familiarize yourself with the new dashboard interface, which is stored in the operating system.
• Explore various settings and widgets available.

Step 10: Update Your System

It's crucial to keep your OMV system updated:

1. Navigate to the updates section in the dashboard.
2. Check for available updates and install them.

Step 11: Change the Admin Password

For security purposes, don’t forget to change the default admin password:

1. Go to the user settings.
2. Update the password for the admin account.

Step 12: Enable Dark Mode (Optional)

If you prefer a darker interface:

1. Access the settings menu.
2. Toggle the dark mode option.

Conclusion

You have successfully set up OpenMediaVault 7! From here, you can explore additional features like Docker and network shares in future episodes. This setup is a versatile tool for managing home servers and NAS solutions. Feel free to revisit this guide as you expand your OMV capabilities or check out the next episodes in the series for further enhancements.