5. Samba Server Configuration

Abstract

 Samba allows GNU/Linux to act as a file and/or printer server for Windows® machines. Even though this wizard can help configure primary and backup domain controllers, we will concentrate here on the most common, standalone server configuration.

Figure 9.3. Choose the Workgroup

Choose the Workgroup

Enter the workgroup to be served by your Samba server and the server's NetBIOS name (Figure 9.3, “Choose the Workgroup”). You can either create a new workgroup or choose an existing one, please refer to your network administrator if you are unsure.

[Tip] Tip

A valid NetBIOS name must follow the simple NetBIOS naming rules (basically, a 1 to 16 character mix of letters, numbers and the - sign is allowed), and be unique (ie. no other machine should have that same name) within the workgroup.

Figure 9.4. Server Banner

Server Banner

Then you have to specify a descriptive name for your Mandriva Linux server, as shown in Figure 9.4, “Server Banner”. This is the description Windows® machines on your network get when requesting more information about the server. You may just accept the default or choose whatever name you want.

Finally you can adjust the log facility parameters. Keep the defaults unless you have specific needs.

When the Samba server is configured you can use the Samba share wizard to create new shares and manage existing ones. Please note that it is only available in Expert Mode.

Figure 9.5. Samba Public Share Setup

Samba Public Share Setup

Run the Samba share manager, select Public share and proceed to the next step. Figure 9.5, “Samba Public Share Setup” shows an example of a public share, writable by everyone with files hosted on the /usr/local/samba/shares/public folder in the server.

[Warning] Warning

Home directories should not be shared by means of a writable public share, use the Special share (CDrom, Homes, Profiles) option to share home directories instead.