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What is a NAS?
You’ve heard the term, but don’t what it means. Find out everything you need to know about a NAS here.
NAS?
It stands for Network Attached Storage. Basically, a little computer plugged into your network with no screen or keyboard/mouse. They come in all shapes and sizes, so requires a bit of planning to ensure it will meet your future needs.
How do I control it if it doesn’t have a screen?
From your internet browser. The one I recommend below has a small program that looks on your network and finds the address for you.
Why do I need one?
To backup your files (and potentially much more).
What else can it do?
Depending on the brands, lots.
- Play movies on your smart TV / Phone / Tablet
- Backup your files offsite (e.g. DropBox or GoogleDrive or OneDrive)
- Stream Music around the house
- Add additional storage to your PC / Mac
- Backup your PC / Macs
- Much much more
Which One?
Synology. A world leader in NAS technology and the only one I would ever recommend. I’ve been running a Synology NAS for the past 10 years and have yet to have an issue. Coupled with the fact that they are constantly updating their software to ensure there secure, they make an excellent choose. Any of the below would be a great choice.
DiskStation DS718+ – A great 2 bay version
DiskStation DS918+ – An even better 4 bay version
DiskStation DS1819+ – 8 Bays and all the storage you should ever need
Which Disks?
Make sure you buy a NAS specific hard drive. They’re usually branded with NAS in the model name and are designed to run 24/7. Don’t be tempted to get a cheaper version as they are built slightly differently.
The following brands are excellent choices.
- Western Digital Red
- Seagate Iron Wolf
How much Space Do I Need?
4Tb is usually enough to backup essential family photos, documents and a couple of PCs/Laptops.