A NAS (Network Attached Storage) device is a specialized computer that provides file-based storage and retrieval over a network. So in short, yes a NAS is a type of network drive.
Some key questions when considering whether a NAS is a network drive:
What is the main function of a NAS?
The primary function of a NAS is to provide centralized file storage and backup that is accessible over a local area network (LAN). This allows multiple networked devices to store, access, share, and protect data in one place.
How does a NAS connect to a network?
A NAS connects directly to a local area network, usually via an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection. It does not require a separate computer to be connected. Many NAS systems have multiple built-in network ports to allow direct connections to a router, switch, or other network devices.
Does a NAS operate independently?
Yes, a NAS is its own standalone unit that operates independently of other computers. It runs its own operating system and software optimized for file storage and networking. This allows the NAS to function even when other network devices are powered off.
Can multiple devices access and share a NAS?
A key feature of a NAS is the ability for multiple users and devices on a network to access, store, and share data on it simultaneously. The NAS facilitates this data sharing between networked devices.
Is a NAS accessed like a regular drive?
NAS devices are accessed over the network, rather than locally attached like a regular drive. But many NAS operating systems integrate seamlessly into the host operating system. This presents the NAS over the network as if it were a normally attached drive.
Is a NAS a dedicated storage device?
Yes, NAS systems are designed specifically for storage purposes. The operating system and software are optimized for file storage, backup, access, sharing, and protection. NAS devices range from simple single-drive personal units to enterprise systems supporting hundreds of terabytes.
Can a NAS be used for purposes besides file storage?
While optimized for file storage and sharing, some NAS devices and software also support additional server functions. These can include media streaming, web serving, virtual machines, automation, and running tasks like torrents and Docker.
Conclusion
In summary, a NAS or Network Attached Storage device is very much a dedicated network drive. Its main purpose is to provide file storage and sharing that is accessible over a local area network. NAS systems connect directly to the network and enable centralized access to data from multiple devices independently of a computer.
What is a NAS?
A NAS, or Network Attached Storage device, is a specialized computer appliance used for file storage and sharing over a network. Some key characteristics of a NAS include:
- Provides centralized, shared file storage for users and devices on a local network
- Connects directly to a network, usually by Ethernet or WiFi
- Does not require an attached computer to function
- Runs an operating system optimized for file storage and networking
- Appears to network clients as a file server
- Allows multiple users to access and share files simultaneously
- Streamlines file backup and protection compared to external drives
In essence, a NAS is a dedicated file storage and share appliance that operates independently to provide data access for authorized network clients.
NAS vs External USB Drive
Unlike an external USB drive attached to a single computer, a NAS connects directly to the network to enable centralized access and sharing of data from multiple network-connected devices. NAS systems also include redundant features and the ability to easily recover from drive failures.
NAS vs Home Server
While a home server can also serve files and stream media, a NAS is purpose-built hardware optimized specifically for storage. NAS operating systems are designed for easy file sharing, backup, remote access, and data protection.
What are the advantages of a NAS?
Using a dedicated NAS for file storage and sharing provides a number of key advantages:
Centralized Storage
A NAS consolidates storage into a single location on the local network, avoiding the need for external drives or folders on individual computers.
Shared Access
Files stored on the NAS are accessible from all connected devices on the network rather than being isolated on any one machine.
Continuous Availability
The NAS continues to provide file access even when individual client computers are powered off.
Backups
Automated backup jobs can be configured to protect data on both the NAS and networked client machines.
Remote Access
Users can access NAS files remotely when away from home using a VPN or NAS vendor mobile apps.
Security
Permissions, access control lists, encryption and network security protect against unauthorized access.
Scalability
Storage capacity can easily be expanded by adding additional and higher capacity drives.
Redundancy
RAID implementation protects against data loss if a drive fails.
What are the main components of a NAS?
A NAS appliance consists of both hardware and software components that work together to provide file storage and sharing capabilities:
Hardware
- Chassis – Houses the drives and other physical components.
- Network ports – Allow connection to the local network with Ethernet cables.
- Drive bays – Accept standard hard drives or SSDs for storage capacity.
- CPU – Processor to handle NAS operating system and software.
- RAM – Memory to temporarily store and process data.
- Power supply – Provides consistent power to components.
Software
- Operating system – Specialized OS designed for NAS file storage and networking.
- File system – Manages the reading and writing of file data and directories.
- Management interface – Allows admins to configure NAS settings.
- Network protocols – Enable communication and file transfers between devices.
- Security – Built-in security features like encryption and access control.
What types of data storage can a NAS support?
NAS devices support a variety of standard data storage configurations:
Single Disk
A basic, entry-level NAS may have just a single hard drive or SSD. Provides limited capacity without redundancy.
JBOD (Just a Bunch Of Disks)
Supports multiple drives of differing sizes, but does not provide performance improvements or redundancy.
RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks)
Combines multiple drives and distributes data across them according to the RAID level set up to balance performance, capacity, and redundancy.
Expansion Units
External enclosures that connect to the NAS over USB or eSATA to provide additional drive bays for capacity expansion.
| Data Storage Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Single Disk | One standalone hard drive or SSD |
| JBOD | Multiple disks of different sizes as separate volumes |
| RAID | Multiple disks in a redundancy configuration for data protection |
| Expansion Units | External enclosures providing additional drive bays |
What network storage protocols do NAS systems support?
NAS devices support standard network protocols for transferring and accessing files between clients and servers:
SMB/CIFS
The SMB or CIFS protocol is supported by Microsoft Windows for file and print sharing on networks.
AFP
The Apple Filing Protocol provides file services for macOS and is optimized for Mac file sharing.
NFS
Network File System is a common protocol supported by Linux and UNIX-like operating systems for mounting remote directories.
FTP
File Transfer Protocol can be used for simple file transfers between NAS and client.
WebDAV
The Web Distributed Authoring and Versioning extension enables clients to access NAS files over HTTP.
iSCSI
Internet Small Computer System Interface presents NAS storage as an attached block storage device accessible over a network.
What CPU and RAM are recommended for a NAS?
When selecting a NAS, CPU and RAM recommendations depend on the storage size and intended use case:
Entry-Level NAS
- 2-4 core CPU (Intel Celeron or ARM-based)
- 1-2 GB RAM
- Best for basic home use with 1-2 drives up to 16 TB total space
Mid-Range NAS
- 4-6 core CPU (Intel i3)
- 4-8 GB RAM
- Good for moderate home use, 4K streaming, multiple users
Business/Enterprise NAS
- 6+ core Xeon CPU
- 8+ GB RAM
- For robust business use, virtualization, large workgroups, and expansive storage
More intensive workloads like running VMs, Docker containers, or databases on the NAS require higher CPU and RAM specifications.
What features should you look for in a NAS?
Key criteria to evaluate when selecting a NAS include:
- Storage capacity – Adequate usable space for current needs and future growth.
- Drive bays – Number and type of bays (3.5″ or 2.5″) to fit required drives.
- RAID types – Availability of RAID levels like 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10 for performance and/or redundancy.
- CPU – Powerful enough CPU for intended NAS workload and use cases.
- RAM – Sufficient RAM recommended for the number and type of drives.
- Network ports – Preferably dual Ethernet/LAN ports for link aggregation and redundancy.
- Remote access – Supports remote NAS access via mobile apps or web browser.
- Data protection – Backup, snapshot, and recovery features to protect against data loss.
- Scalability – Ability to expand storage capacity when needed.
- Security – Encryption, access controls, firewall to safeguard data.
- Warranty and support – Multi-year warranty and technical support preferred.
Prioritizing your performance, capacity, availability, and budget requirements will help determine the ideal NAS solution.
What are the most popular NAS operating systems?
The most common NAS operating systems include:
FreeNAS and TrueNAS
FreeNAS is a free, open source OS, while TrueNAS is an enterprise version with additional features, both developed by iXsystems. They are based on FreeBSD and support ZFS.
QNAP QTS
QNAP’s QTS operating system offers a simple web-based interface. It includes useful applications for file management, backup, sharing, synchronization, and more.
Synology DSM
Synology DSM (DiskStation Manager) is an intuitive OS that enables easily managing media, photos, virtual machines, web hosting, and application packages on Synology NAS devices.
Asustor ADM
ADM OS by Asustor features efficient file management, media center applications, security tools, and support for third-party apps on Asustor NAS hardware.
NETGEAR ReadyNAS
ReadyNAS is a Linux-based OS providing a desktop-like interface, apps for backup, media, surveillance, and easy NAS management.
How do you set up a NAS on a home network?
The basic steps for installing a NAS on a home network are:
- Physically connect the NAS to your router using an Ethernet cable.
- Power on the NAS and configure its network settings to automatically get an IP address.
- Install hard drives in the NAS drive bays.
- Access the NAS management UI at its IP address and run the setup wizard.
- Create user accounts and set up access permissions for your users.
- Configure NAS network protocols like SMB and NFS for your client devices.
- Map NAS shared folders as network drives on client PCs and mobile devices.
- Move files to the NAS shared folders to centralize data.
- Set up backup jobs, remote access, media server, and other NAS features as desired.
Proper configuration of user and device access rights, network protocols, backup schedules, remote access, and other settings is key for optimal NAS functionality and security.
What are common uses for a NAS in home and business environments?
Typical NAS usage scenarios include:
Home NAS Uses
- Central file and media storage for all devices
- Streaming media like music, videos, and photos
- Backing up computers, tablets, phones, and cloud data
- Storing home surveillance camera footage
- Downloading/seeding torrents
Business NAS Uses
- File serving and collaboration using shared folders
- Virtual machine and container storage
- Database hosting
- Shared email storage for Microsoft Exchange
- Storing backups for disaster recovery
- Archiving old files offline
- Serving web sites and wikis
A NAS provides flexible storage to suit a variety of use cases for home users, small offices, and enterprises.
Conclusion
A NAS or Network Attached Storage device functions as dedicated file storage server, providing centralized data access and sharing over a local area network. NAS systems allow multiple networked users and devices to simultaneously store, backup, retrieve, and exchange files in a common location. With continuing data growth and the need for anywhere access, a properly configured NAS is a critical storage component for home and business users alike.