How to best backup data and network printer

[Maineman]

I need to backup data on 4 computers and network a hardwired printer / scanner.

I am getting Win 7 Pro and plan to set up a home network. I have a Lynksys N router but am out of ports. My plan is to add a Linksys - PSUS4 - USB 1.1 Print Server with Built-in 4-Port Network Switch. My concern is the PSUS4 ethernet ports are G and the USB is 1.1. I am told the G speed will be fast enough to run a VOIP phone and backup my computers on an NAS external drive.

I could get a USB 2.0 external drive and share it and the printer. My concern there is the printer will only be available if my computer is on and backing up all computers becomes more difficult if the backup drive is shared rather than networked.

Anyone have suggestions on how to best backup data and

 

[jmacavali]

I think the best way to go is to setup an old computer as a file/print server. That way it's always on and you can share the drive and printer from it. You can get 3 drives and set up a raid 1 (depending on how important the data is).