4GB is plenty for a headless file server, I'm doing vastly more than that with a 2GB model.
For long term reliability set it up to minimize routine writing to the microSD, and use a recognized brand high endurance card. Consider zram swap; you shouldn't need much swap anyway.
The actual file service should be from an attached drive, SSD or mechanical; but not a thumb drive; these are rarely better and often much worse than your microSD. You have the most options using a powered external drive or enclosure, but a simple dongle adapter is possible, make sure it supports uasp, can often work with a SATA laptop, ngff or miniPCIe drive. Read reviews that specifically mention the Pi 4 before buying, though: this is kind of on the edge of what the Pi really wants do power-wise.
(Astonishingly I've gotten away for over two years now with a 2TB dual-platter 15mm Toshiba 2.5" drive connected and powered only by a USB/SATA adapter dongle. Continuously recording multiple high definition streaming cameras as well as acting in a number of other roles as a general-purpose server. Absolutely stable 24/7. But your mileage may vary.)
For long term reliability set it up to minimize routine writing to the microSD, and use a recognized brand high endurance card. Consider zram swap; you shouldn't need much swap anyway.
The actual file service should be from an attached drive, SSD or mechanical; but not a thumb drive; these are rarely better and often much worse than your microSD. You have the most options using a powered external drive or enclosure, but a simple dongle adapter is possible, make sure it supports uasp, can often work with a SATA laptop, ngff or miniPCIe drive. Read reviews that specifically mention the Pi 4 before buying, though: this is kind of on the edge of what the Pi really wants do power-wise.
(Astonishingly I've gotten away for over two years now with a 2TB dual-platter 15mm Toshiba 2.5" drive connected and powered only by a USB/SATA adapter dongle. Continuously recording multiple high definition streaming cameras as well as acting in a number of other roles as a general-purpose server. Absolutely stable 24/7. But your mileage may vary.)
Statistics: Posted by cheddoline — Fri Jul 18, 2025 8:50 pm