Nowadays, it takes less time than ever for the storage space on your computers and mobile devices to fill up due to the prevalence of high-resolution photographs and near-constant video capture.
Though you can use an external hard disk to back up and transfer data from your computer (and, by implication, your phone), if you detach the drive and keep it in your workplace, you and anybody else who needs access to the data stored on it will be unable to access it remotely.
For that reason, you should think about investing in a reliable NAS device instead. Network-attached storage, or NAS, is a type of high-capacity storage that can be connected to a local area network (LAN) so that you and any other authorized users can access your data from any Internet-connected device, including smartphones and computers.
In this article, we will explain what are the main features of NAS, showcase its benefits, and help you understand how to choose the capacity according to your personal needs.
Why Do You Need NAS Storage?
Hard disk failures and computer crashes are facts of life. These days, most people use some form of cloud storage, but is this the best option? Do you truly want all of your private or company information stored on the cloud and be one hacked password away from a total disaster? In addition, for individuals and companies who already have a lot of files that need to be stored, the monthly cost of using a cloud storage service can quickly add up.
Luckily, if you want to back up all of your data on a regular basis for a fraction of the price, you should strongly consider the possibility of investing in a professional NAS backup software solution, which in fact is a storage device connected to a network that permits retrieval of data and storage from a central location for clients and authorized network users. NAS devices scale out and are flexible, meaning that as you need extra storage along the way, you can add to what you already have.
Put differently, NAS is like having the most private cloud ever whether in your home or in your office. It’s less expensive, faster, and provides all the advantages of a public cloud on-site, permitting you complete control of your files.
The Top Benefits That NAS Storage Provides For Your Needs
Superior Instruments For Effective Data Management
Some of the ways in which a NAS can improve the efficiency and safety of your data storage include completely automated backups, deduplication, compressing, and encryption. You can set up sync processes to make group work simpler, use directory services to keep track of who has access to what, and even add features like media and photo management.
RAID Redundancy
Redundancy refers to the practice of using more storage media than is strictly required in order to deal with the eventuality of a device failure. Thanks to NAS, you can then choose to fix the problem without risking any data loss or taking the system offline.
Using a RAID, or redundant array of independent disks provides redundancy. When it comes to performance and resilience (how well it handles drive failures), RAID implementations vary widely. It still depends on how much room you are ready to dedicate to it and your NAS setup.
Advanced Security
Furthermore, keeping sensitive information safe from unwanted access is a primary motivation for using NAS. You must ensure that sensitive data will not get into the wrong hands before granting users remote access. As a result, there are now many NAS devices available that come with strong encryption features.
Expanded Capacity
It may seem apparent, but if you’re currently using workstations and hard drives, a NAS system will greatly increase your storage space. NAS servers have the capacity to hold numerous hard drives internally, providing copious amounts of redundant storage space. This is crucial for the long-term integrity of your data.
Better Connectivity
Sophisticated NAS devices even have Wi-Fi all set up and ready to go. In this situation, an access point can be set up so that other gadgets can communicate with one another. Such capabilities can facilitate the downloading, streaming, and editing of huge files on client devices. With Wi-Fi, you can forget about unsightly Ethernet wires and routers. Such gadgets can also be used to improve the strength of a network’s signal.
How To Determine The NAS Capacity Suitable For Your Needs?
First things first, think about how many hard disks you’ll need when making your NAS purchase. A disk bay’s capacity can range from zero to sixteen slots. The amount of storage space that can be accommodated may usually be inferred by looking at the RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) system. RAID is a common configuration for NAS devices since it allows for several hard drives to be housed in a single enclosure.
The amount of disks that a NAS can store is one of the primary ways to tell it apart from others. The more drive bays you have, the more space you can give your users and the more options you have for keeping your data safe in the event of a disk failure.
Final Thoughts
Because all of the information is stored in one location, it is much simpler for business teams to work together, provide prompt responses to clients, and enhance data management and security when using a network-attached storage (NAS) system.
Because NAS functions similarly to a private cloud and the same services may be made available in the cloud, information can be accessed remotely via a network connection, allowing for the mobility of both people and applications.
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