re: Critique my ideal home network setup

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- Get a NAS.

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Doesn't solve massive files that need to be compressed issue and would cost more than using the above as a NAS in almost all cases of 4-bay NAS

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- Get a MUCH better router

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Hardwired gigabit connection will be between the server, the computer that's the (P/D)VR, and the DLNA-enabled cable box that streams everything. I don't need more than 4 gigabit ports, and DHCP controls inside of Windows Server are about as good a set of router controls as one could ask for, particularly with regards to the semi-advanced stuff (IP reservations, static IPs, VPN, and port forwarding for accessing the 2nd remote desktop built into Windows Server). I don't plan on managing multiple subnets or anything similar at this point.

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- Get a MUCH better wireless access point

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N900 3x3 MIMO is sufficient for streaming the smaller, compressed files around the house when they're hardware transcoded by the server (also not particularly solved by your NAS idea) and even for using 2 of the HD tuners over the WiFi. If I were attempting to stream 3+ tuners and media files all over WiFi, I would agree that AC would be a better choice. I don't really have a need to run guest networks or multiple APs in this place.


I am curious though, can you please recommend your:
1) a NAS with min 4 bays and >2TB/slot support for less than $258
2) a better router than Windows Server or switch that has 4+ gigabit ports (which, since the current one is already owned by me, would need to be in the "cheap" range.
3) access point. Everything in the house is Wireless N or older; there is no need or desire to upgrade to AC anytime soon.