Turning your PC into a storage server with DAEMON Tools iSCSI Target allows you to share local drives, virtual images, or VHDs across a network, making them appear as local disks to client computers.
Here is how to set up your PC as an iSCSI storage server using DAEMON Tools: 1. Prepare the Server (Host PC)
Download & Install: Install DAEMON Tools iSCSI Target on the computer that has the physical drive or files you want to share.
Launch the Application: Open the software and click the Add button to create a new target. 2. Configure the Target (What to Share)
Select Storage Type: Choose the type of storage you want to share over the network (e.g., Physical optical device, VHD, or image file). Set Target Options: Name & Alias: Give your target a recognizable name.
Access Permissions: Configure who can connect to the target (IQN, IP address, DNS name, or MAC address).
Finalize: Select the specific drive and click Finish to start sharing. 3. Connect from Client (Initiator PC)
Install Initiator: You need an iSCSI initiator on the client machine to connect to the target. DAEMON Tools Ultra is recommended, but native Windows iSCSI Initiator also works.
Connect to Target: In the initiator software, input the IP address and port (default is 3260) of your server machine to access the shared drive. Key Benefits & Features
Cross-Platform: Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux environments.
Flexible Sharing: Share physical drives, VHDs, and ISO images, making them accessible as local drives.
Remote Management: Manage targets via a web interface from any device (PC, phone, tablet).
Capacity: Supports adding up to 16 targets for multiple client connections.
Note: While DAEMON Tools is a third-party option, Windows Server 2025 also has built-in, native iSCSI target features available through the “File and Storage Services” role in Server Manager. If you’d like, I can:
Explain how to set up the native Windows iSCSI initiator to connect to the server.
Provide tips on securing your iSCSI network (IQN, CHAP authentication).
Compare this method with simpler file sharing (SMB/network folders). Windows, Mac and Linux iSCSI Server in one solution
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