Best Network Attached Storage (NAS) Solutions

SAN (storage area network) and NAS are both network-based storage solutions.

A SAN is an array of disks which are attached to the server, creating a device that can be accessed similar to a hard drive. A SAN stores data at the block level, while NAS data is accessed as files. A SAN operates as a disk and exists in its own separate network of storage devices, while NAS operates as a file server.

NAS handles unstructured data, such as audio, video, websites, and text files. SANs are designed mainly for block storage inside databases, also known as structured data.

NAS is useful when multiple devices need to easily access the same set of files.

In large enterprises. NAS is used for:

• Data backups and recovery.

• Developing and testing server-side applications.

• Hosting server based applications.

• Video and audio streaming

• Managing security systems and updates.

• File sharing.

Depending on your storage needs, NAS might be a better solution for you than cloud storage. For example:

• NAS generally grants more access to more advanced apps.
  
• NAS can be less expensive than cloud: For enterprises that need a large volume of storage for long term purposes, NAS comes out to be the cheaper solution.
  
• NAS is faster than cloud: While NAS takes longer to set up than cloud, it is usually faster, taking advantage of the maximum possible bandwidth. NAS provides direct connection to devices, and the upload time is likely to be shorter.
  
• NAS, as an in-house system, allows its administrators more control over their environment.

A NAS is very useful when multiple devices need to easily and safely access the same set of files. These files can be documents, photos, music, or video files. Whenever users collaborate with each other with shared files, it is recommended to use a NAS.

NAS is faster than USB 2.0 but not as fast as USB 3.0.

Some of the advantages of using NAS are:

• Easy file sharing between users and devices.
  
• Multiple users can access the NAS drive at the same time.

• NAS can be scaled to add additional storage.

• Users can directly use web applications that are stored on the NAS drive.
  
• The NAS drive can be accessed remotely.

Some of the disadvantages of using NAS are:

• Setting up a NAS can be complex and requires networking knowledge.

• The functionality depends on the hardware used for the NAS.

• Scaling the NAS requires adding additional hardware.

NAS solutions are used for configuring and managing NAS appliances. These solutions allow administrators to allocate storage, manage space, and perform maintenance tasks. NAS management software can be used with a variety of NAS devices from different vendors.

When choosing a NAS solution, here are some features to look out for:

• Backup and restore: Perform backups of all assets stored on the NAS.

• Reporting: Receive reports with analysis and in-depth information on stored assets and information on how they are being utilized.

• Security: Set up antivirus programs and encryption features to keep data stored on the NAS safe.

• Optimization: Compress, deduplicate, and reduce data stored on the NAS.

• Virtualization: Create and manage virtual file servers on the NAS.

• Central management console: NAS solutions should have a central dashboard where the entire storage infrastructure is managed. This includes physical devices, global network configuration and administration, and capacity planning. Using the console, admins can also create user groups and grant them access to necessary applications.

Network attached storage software helps manage and assess the state of the NAS infrastructure. Some of the benefits of using NAS solutions include:

• Automated maintenance: NAS solutions allow admins to automate routine storage maintenance tasks, such as network storage settings configurations, software updates, firmware updates, asset managements, monitoring, alerting, and capacity reporting. Certain maintenance tasks can be scheduled to perform during off-peak hours to minimize business disruptions and can automatically send notifications confirming a successful operation.

• Discovery: Gain visibility into the entire NAS environment. NAS solutions provide logs and reports that help administrators track the entire NAS infrastructure.

• Security: NAS solutions keep data secure with encryption and antivirus programs and help make sure that the correct people access the correct information.