Network-attached storage, or NAS, has become an increasingly popular data storage solution for both home and business use. But what exactly is NAS, and why should you consider using it? Here we’ll explain what NAS is, the benefits it offers, who can benefit from using NAS, and some factors to consider when choosing a NAS device or service.
What is Network-Attached Storage (NAS)?
NAS is a dedicated data storage device that is connected directly to a local area network, most commonly an Ethernet network. This allows multiple users and client devices on the network to access and share the stored data on the NAS device. An important distinction between NAS and other storage solutions is that a NAS device is not attached directly to a computer through a connection like USB, Thunderbolt or SATA. Instead, it connects to the network independently.
Some key characteristics of network-attached storage include:
- Works as dedicated storage independent of a computer
- Connects directly to a local area network, often with an Ethernet connection
- Uses an operating system optimized for storing and accessing files
- Manages all file handling including reading, writing, updating, deleting, etc.
- Appears to network users as a network share or drive
- Allows assigned users and devices to access and share files
- Can be accessed by multiple users and devices simultaneously
NAS devices are specialized computers built for data storage and sharing. They run an operating system, usually a Linux-based OS, that is designed specifically for handling file storage and transfers. The user interface for configuring and managing the device is accessed through a web browser or specialized software. Compared to general purpose servers, NAS devices put the emphasis on providing large amounts of storage capacity along with performance that is optimized for throughput of many files simultaneously requested by multiple users.
Why Use Network-Attached Storage?
There are several key advantages that NAS offers compared to alternative data storage methods:
- Shared storage – Because NAS is connected directly to the network, designated users can access stored files from anywhere on the network. This makes it easy to share data and collaborate.
- Performance – NAS devices are optimized to provide quick read/write speeds suitable for multiple users accessing different files concurrently. This makes them faster than external consumer drives.
- Convenience – Files on the NAS appear as a network location that can be easily mapped and accessed like any other drive. No syncing between devices is required.
- Scalability – Most NAS solutions allow you to add additional hard drives as needed, making it easy to increase storage capacity.
- Data protection – NAS supports data protection through fault tolerance using technologies like RAID. Some also provide backup to external drives or cloud services.
- Remote access – Users can often access files stored on a NAS from anywhere over the internet, allowing remote data access.
For home users, NAS allows you to centrally store your data like photos, videos, music and documents in one place that can then be accessed by all of your household devices and users. For businesses, NAS enables easier collaboration and data sharing between employees while also providing the ability to scale storage as needed.
Who Can Benefit from Using NAS?
There are several scenarios where using a dedicated NAS device makes sense:
- Home media storage – Storing and streaming your personal media files like photos, videos and music.
- Backing up computer files – Using NAS as a central place to backup your PCs and mobile devices.
- Sharing files – Enabling convenient file access and collaboration between family members or housemates.
- Small business file servers – Storing company files in a central shared location for all employees.
- Media production storage – Large high-speed storage for managing media project files and assets.
- Retail/business security – Storing surveillance camera footage on NAS for retrieval and review.
NAS allows both home users and businesses to get the benefits of centralized networked storage without needing to setup and maintain a complex corporate-style server solution.
Key Factors When Selecting NAS
There are several important considerations when choosing the right NAS solution:
NAS Device vs NAS Server
There are both standalone NAS appliances as well as NAS servers that are installed on general purpose server hardware or a virtual machine. NAS appliances provide an all-in-one solution that comes preconfigured with the operating system and storage. NAS servers offer more flexibility for selecting your hardware platform and OS configuration.
Number of Bays
This determines how many internal hard drives can be installed in the NAS for storage. More bays allow adding higher capacity drives down the road. Typical options are 4, 6 or 8 bays for home NAS, while business NAS may have 12 bays or more.
Supported Drive Types
Most NAS support 3.5″ or 2.5″ SATA hard disk drives. Some also support solid state drives (SSD). Drives must be purchased separately in standalone NAS units, while NAS servers may include some preinstalled storage.
RAID Support
RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) allows combining multiple physical drives into a single logical volume, increasing performance and/or adding redundancy to protect against drive failure. Key considerations are which RAID levels are supported and how many disks can be used in the RAID array.
Processor and RAM
More powerful CPU and adequate RAM allow the NAS to handle multiple requests and process data quickly. Look for at least 2 GB RAM for home use, and 4 GB or more for business use.
Network Connectivity
Most NAS devices have 1GbE Ethernet ports, but higher end units may include 10GbE ports for increased network bandwidth. Wireless connectivity may also be available on some models. Assess your network speeds to determine what makes sense.
Backup and Recovery
To protect your data, consider what backup and recovery capabilities are supported. Local backups to external USB drives, remote cloud backups, built-in disaster recovery, backup software and snapshot support are among key features to look for.
Security
Business use will likely require more robust security. Check what user accounts, access permissions, VPN support, encryption and other security functions are provided.
Remote Access
The ability to access your NAS over the internet while away from home is very useful. Some NAS have embedded clients, while other may require a third-party VPN client.
Supported Protocols and Clients
Most NAS support standard protocols like SMB, AFP, NFS, etc. for broad compatibility. Some also support features like FTP servers, Plex Media Server, Dropbox integration and more based on your usage needs.
Scalability
If you anticipate needing more storage down the road, select a NAS that allows adding additional drives. Some support scaling up to over 100TB. Virtual NAS servers are inherently scalable by adding storage to the underlying virtual machine.
Ease of Use
A good user interface and management tools will make setting up and managing your NAS simpler. Look for an intuitive web-based dashboard and easy setup wizards.
Conclusion
Network-attached storage offers an excellent way for home users and businesses to implement shared storage and backup capabilities on their local network. With support for multiple users and fault tolerance using RAID, NAS provides flexible and reliable storage that can start small and expand as your needs grow. Considering key factors like storage capacity, network connectivity, supported protocols, remote access and ease of management will help you select the right NAS model for your specific use case.