OpenMediaVault 7 - Install & Basic configuration

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to install and configure OpenMediaVault 7 (OMV 7.4.17) for your home lab. OpenMediaVault is a powerful network-attached storage (NAS) solution based on Debian Linux. By following these instructions, you'll set up a functioning NAS that you can customize and manage easily.

Step 1: Download OpenMediaVault

1. Visit the official OpenMediaVault website.
2. Navigate to the download section.
3. Select the latest version (7.4.17) and download the ISO file.

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive

1. Download Rufus, a utility for creating bootable USB drives.
2. Insert a USB drive (at least 4 GB).
3. Open Rufus and select the downloaded OMV ISO file.
4. Choose the USB drive from the device dropdown.
5. Click 'Start' to create the bootable USB.

Step 3: Boot from USB Drive

1. Insert the bootable USB into the system where OMV will be installed.
2. Restart the computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, F12, or Delete).
3. Change the boot order to prioritize the USB drive.
4. Save changes and exit BIOS/UEFI.

Step 4: Install OpenMediaVault

1. Upon booting, select the option to install OpenMediaVault.
2. Follow the prompts to configure the installation:
   • Choose your language.
   • Configure the keyboard layout.
   • Set the hostname for your server.
   • Create a root password for administrative access.

Step 5: Partition Disks

1. Select the hard drive where OMV will be installed.
2. Choose the partitioning method (recommended: guided).
3. Confirm the changes to partition the disk as prompted.

Step 6: Configure Debian Archive Mirror

1. When asked, choose a Debian archive mirror for package updates.
2. Select the closest mirror for better performance.

Step 7: Reboot the System

1. Once the installation is complete, remove the USB drive.
2. Reboot the system to start OpenMediaVault.

Step 8: First Login

1. Access the OMV web interface by entering your server's IP address in a web browser.
2. Log in using the default credentials:
   • Username: admin
   • Password: openmediavault

Step 9: Update OpenMediaVault

1. After logging in, navigate to the update section.
2. Apply any available updates to ensure you have the latest features and security patches.

Step 10: Configure Dashboard

1. Familiarize yourself with the OMV dashboard.
2. Customize the layout and widgets according to your preferences.

Step 11: Change Admin Password

1. Go to the user management section.
2. Select the admin user and change the password for enhanced security.

Step 12: Enable HTTPS

1. Navigate to the settings for HTTPS in the web interface.
2. Enable HTTPS to secure your connection to the OMV web interface.

Step 13: Create a User

1. In the user management section, add a new user.
2. Set permissions and access rights for the new user.

Step 14: SSH Login

1. Enable SSH access within the settings.
2. Use an SSH client (like PuTTY) to log in to your OMV server remotely.

Step 15: Use OMV First Aid

1. If you encounter issues, access the OMV First Aid tool via the boot menu.
2. Follow the prompts to diagnose and repair common problems.

Step 16: Security Enhancement

1. Remove the ROOT user from the SSH group to improve security.
2. Use the command line or the web interface to manage user roles appropriately.

Conclusion

You have successfully installed and configured OpenMediaVault 7 for your home lab. With your NAS set up, you can explore additional features like file sharing, cloud storage, or media streaming. Always keep your system updated and regularly back up your data for optimal performance and security.