Network attached storage (NAS) has become an invaluable data storage solution for businesses and home users alike. Compared to traditional file servers, NAS offers simplified data consolidation, seamless scalability, and enterprise-class features at an affordable price point.
This comprehensive guide will explain what NAS is, its key benefits, use cases, top products, and future innovations shaping one of today‘s hottest data storage technologies. Whether you‘re considering a NAS for your small business or looking to build a home media center, you‘ll learn how these clever boxes can benefit almost any environment.
Defining Network Attached Storage
At its core, a NAS device is essentially a stripped-down computer optimized for file serving and storage. Unlike a general-purpose server, a dedicated NAS box removes components like a keyboard, mouse, and monitor to focus exclusively on managing disks over a network.
NAS solutions connect directly to a local area network through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection. They function independently, with their own IP address and operating system. Multiple users and client devices can then access, store, and retrieve data from the NAS simultaneously.
Compared to directly attached drives, network attached storage centralizes data onto a single device accessible to entire organizations. And unlike storage area networks (SANs), NAS uses more widely-adopted networking protocols like TCP/IP over Ethernet instead of specialized technology like Fibre Channel.
NAS vs. DAS
With directly attached storage (DAS), external drives connect directly to a computer, typically via USB, eSATA, or Thunderbolt. Data lives locally on each system, making DAS simpler but less convenient for multiple users to share files.
NAS vs. SAN
Storage area networks (SANs) provide block-level access compared to NAS file-level access. SANs also utilize separate high-speed networks just for storage instead of standard TCP/IP traffic. The advanced capabilities make SANs better suited for large enterprises.
Key Benefits of Network Attached Storage
Now that you understand the NAS concept, let‘s explore some of the concrete advantages this approach offers:
Centralized Storage and Availability
Rather than siloing data across individual computers and external drives, pooling storage onto a NAS gives entire networks access to the same files. Critical business information remains available even if a user‘s personal device fails.
Simplicity and Ease of Use
Basic NAS appliances configure in just minutes with a web-based setup wizard. Ongoing management also handles through simple browser-based admin interfaces, unlike the command lines required for traditional Linux and Windows Server file sharing.
Scalability and Future Growth
Most NAS solutions allow you to insert additional hard drives as storage needs dictate. With RAID data protection, you can hot-swap failed drives without interrupting user access. Many units also support SSD caching to dynamically improve performance.
Lower Cost Compared to Traditional File Servers
By eliminating non-storage components, NAS delivers exceptional capabilities at consumer price points rather than the high cost of enterprise gear. Lower power draw also makes NAS cheaper to operate long-term.
Data Resiliency Through RAID
Redundant RAID storage protects against disk failures by striping and mirroring data across multiple drives. If a drive fails, the NAS remains operational while you swap in new disks.
Security Features
From encrypted hard drives to VPN support, NAS operating systems contain advanced security functions to protect sensitive business data. Role-based permissions also limit which users access what files.
Common Use Cases for Network Attached Storage Deployments
The abundant features and flexibility of NAS make it suitable for various applications including:
Storing company files on a centralized NAS allows employees to collaborate more effectively. Remote workers can also access the same data securely from home.
Backups
Affordable NAS appliances have massive capacity for backing up client PCs, servers, and cloud data. Offsite replication between multiple NAS provides an extra layer of protection.
Media Storage and Editing
The high sequential throughput of NAS devices works well for media production. Video editors can stream footage smoothly across a wired Ethernet connection.
Home Media Centers and Personal Cloud Storage
Media-focused NAS units shine for storing personal photo, video, and music collections. Built-in transcoding even allows streaming content to any device.
Surveillance Storage
Write-optimized NAS handles recording multiple surveillance camera feeds simultaneously. Support for IP cameras also enables remote viewing.
Edge Computing and Analytics
Modern NAS can run containers and artificial intelligence applications closer to data sources instead of the cloud. Real-time analytics provides insights faster.
Understanding NAS Protocols
For seamless data exchange between devices, NAS leverages standard communication protocols:
TCP/IP
The TCP/IP networking protocol enables NAS boxes to connect directly to local area networks via Ethernet connectivity. Clients can access network shared folders as if they were local drives.
Key NAS File Sharing Protocols
Specific file sharing protocols determine precisely how clients access, store, retrieve, and update data on the NAS:
Server Message Block (SMB) – The native Windows file sharing protocol works extremely well with NAS. MacOS and Linux can connect to SMB shares thanks to built-in support.
Apple Filing Protocol (AFP) – Optimized for macOS users, AFP integrates NAS storage seamlessly with Mac desktop and laptops.
Network File System (NFS) – NFS handles Linux NAS connections. Its open-source nature also makes NFS widely compatible with appliances and multimedia devices.
How to Choose the Right Network Attached Storage
With a crowded NAS vendor landscape, it helps to know what specifications matter most for your environment. Here are key considerations when selecting an appropriate NAS:
Storage Capacity
Consider both your short-term storage needs and expected long-term data growth. Many NAS bays support large 16TB+ SATA or SSD drives.
Network Connectivity
Look for gigabit ethernet ports for connecting to wired networks. WiFi support enables flexibly placing NAS anywhere within range of your wireless router.
Processor and Memory
Faster CPUs and more RAM improve simultaneous user performance. If you‘ll use intensive apps like VMs, opt for quad-core processors and 8GB+ memory.
Number of Bays
More drive bays support larger storage now and leave room to upgrade later. At minimum, choose 4 bays for adequate RAID flexibility.
Included Software Features
Security protections, backup tools, media servers, and collaboration apps increase NAS capabilities. Compare vendor package offerings during the buying process.
The Best NAS Hardware Appliances
Whether for home or business contexts, these NAS solutions offer excellent quality, features, and support:
Synology DS220+
Our favorite SMB and home NAS has an excellent web-based OS, optional SSD caching, and supports up to 60TB storage in a compact desktop form factor.
QNAP TS-h886-D1622
This high-end ZFS-based rackmount provides phenomenal performance and massive scalability for growing small business.
Asustor AS6604T
Packed with AMD quad-core power, 10GbE connectivity, and HDMI output for under $1,000, it‘s our top value pick.
WD My Cloud EX4100
From the hard drive experts, this cost-effective 4-bay NAS nails simplicity and remote access.
Dell EMC PowerVault ME4
Easy to deploy, affordable, and brimming with enterprise-class features. Our favorite entry-level rack NAS.
NetApp AFF A220
Optimized for flash with unified NAS and SAN capabilities. Ideal for virtualized environments.
HPE StoreEasy 1660
Top-tier scalability to 1.5PB of storage plus dual controllers for no-compromise SMB availability.
Effectively Managing and Securing Your NAS
Once deployed, be sure to configure these administrative best practices:
Creating defined user accounts lets you limit access to approved personnel only. Share-level passwords and read/write restrictions add further protection.
Schedule Backups
All NAS operating systems feature backup tools. Schedule regular jobs to protect NAS data to external USB drives and cloud services like Dropbox.
Install Antivirus and Firewall Software
Additional security controls prevent malware and hacking attempts. Some NAS even filter traffic by country to mitigate attacks.
Restrict Network Access
Limit NAS availability to static local IP addresses or a preset range of DHCP addresses to minimize exposure. Disable ports and protocols not essential for clients.
Enable Drive Encryption
Protect data if disks get physically stolen. The best NAS operating systems provide AES encryption options.
Leveraging the Cloud for Remote NAS Access
In combination with public cloud platforms, NAS capabilities grow even more versatile:
Hybrid Cloud Data Backup
Bidirectional backup ensures NAS data replicates securely both onsite and to affordable cloud object storage. Popular options include Backblaze B2 and Wasabi.
Extend On-Premises Storage to the Cloud
Instead of buying a larger NAS to accommodate growth, aggregate additional cloud volumes for unlimited capacity. Migrate older data to the cloud to reduce local storage needs.
Enable Secure Remote Access Anywhere
Cloud NAS gateways like Zadara and Nasuni integrate seamlessly with platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. Benefit from managed file services globally while keeping proprietary data internal.
The Future of Innovations in Networked Storage
According to leading analysts, the already $20 billion global NAS industry should expand at a 15% CAGR clip through 2030. Several cutting-edge developments point to a bright future:
Continued Enterprise Cloud Adoption
As corporate data shifts increasingly outside physical walls, purpose-built cloud NAS enables this transition through private, hybrid, and cloud-native approaches.
AI to Enhance Efficiency
Machine learning streamlines NAS device management by predicting failure, recommending configurations, and more. AI also improves media transcoding and information lifecycle management capabilities.
Innovations by Leading Vendors
Watch for novel form factors like miniature personal NAS devices along with advances in flash lifespan, speed, and density. Incumbent and emerging vendors alike strive to stand out versus commoditized solutions.
Helpful Resources to Continue Your NAS Education
To take your NAS IQ to the next level, be sure to explore these invaluable learning resources:
Books
"Mastering VMware vSphere 6.7" offers 300+ pages of getting up to speed on enterprise NAS options.
Online Courses
This Introduction to SAN and NAS Storage from Udemy serves as a free 3.5-hour primer on networked storage.
Community Forums
Reddit‘s /r/HomeNAS and /r/DataHoarder groups share first-hand experiences from NAS owners and power users.
Achieve Your Storage Goals with Network Attached Storage
Like traditional file servers on steroids, NAS unlocks game-changing enterprise data consolidation and collaboration features at consumer price points. Whether tackling a major digital transformation or cost-effectively centralizing family photos, NAS eliminates adoption barriers through simplicity and value.
Power up your networked storage knowledge with this comprehensive NAS guide. Then, apply your new expertise toward architecting more scalable, resilient, and flexible solutions at work or home. The world of connected storage stands ready to unlock efficiency and innovation alike.
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