Tech help: usb to cat5

Hi all.

Having a technical problem that I need some help with.

I have a usb external drive that i'd like to connect to my network. I'm wondering if I would be able to simply purchase a usb to cat 5 converter, and plug the usb drive into my switch box and still be able to access the data on the drive from any pc on the network. I now this is a feature included with many newer routers, but while i'm waiting to upgrade, wanted to ask if there were a simpler, cheaper alternative.

Any help is appreciated.

Thanks!

If you google "usb nas adapter", then you will get a few results.  I couldn't recommend one, because I think that I have the unofficial title in killing most USB drives at my work.  All of those where available and running 24/7 in tiny enclosures, and they would eventually die from the heat buildup.

While it is not cheaper short term, I would look into small NAS storage units that supports as a minimum Raid 1 and make sure that they have a stable power supply.  Without a stable power supply, you will risk failure if data is written at the same time as the power is interrupted.

mumbo jumbo translator:

NAS = Network attached storage.

Raid 1 = Mirror.  Data are written identically to two (or more) drives

Booie kills.. everything!

BLOODY!!!!!!

Dude, what have you been up too :) .. You left me alone with way too many USB drives and now they are gone :)

Still busy with work?

 I'm wondering if I would be able to simply purchase a usb to cat 5 converter, and plug the usb drive into my switch box and still be able to access the data on the drive from any pc on the network.

It would not work that way. Basically every network storage (NAS) has a mini-computer on board to handle password authentication, I/O operations etc.   You might consider inexpensive ($100+) "NAS enclosure" instead.  

You may also want to check your router/switch.  It may already have a USB port you can plug a drive into.  Not all of them come with one, but some do.