What is a NAS?

When you are setting up a network you have many options when deciding how you are going to store your data. The most common of which is a file server but there are also NAS (Network-attached storage) appliances. NAS stands for Network Area Storage. These can offer a low cost solution to storing your data. With this device you can set up a central location for sharing common files. No operating system is needed to run and installs directly on the network.

What are the benefits for using a NAS?

NAS devices do not require an operating system or complex components to function. This in turn reduces the cost on implementing one on the network. The business grade also features hot swappable drives allowing you to expand your storage when needed. Raid configurations are also available giving you redundancy and data protection.

When is it ideal to use a NAS?

In most cases it is best to use a NAS when you don’t need to delegate who can see and use the data. If you have a specific department that shares common file. NAS devices are also ideal for storing backups of servers and workstations and archiving old files. Keeping files on a NAS will also take a burden off your server, decreasing network traffic and space consumed on the server.