Network Attached Storage (NAS) for back-ups or sharing files

Nowadays, more and more devices in your network become mobile, but you will still want to back-up them neatly. Also, the need to share your documents with other devices is increasing. To continue  transfering all your data via external hard drive from one device to another is very cumbersome. You can solve this problem with a NAS (Network Attached Storage).

What is a NAS?

A NAS is a Network Attached Storage. In other words, storage somewhere in your network, which can be used by all devices on your network. This means you do not need an external hard drive or USB sticks to exchange data transfer or back-ups. A NAS can be placed in your network in two ways or wired to your router via an Ethernet port or via WiFi. All devices in your network can then exchange data with your NAS.

A NAS consists of one or more hard disks that are managed by its own internal minicomputer with its own operating system. Many NAS systems are built to easily install or replace a hard disk, so you can expand your capacity easily. Since a NAS is often used to back up data, most NAS systems come with their own back-up software, so you can manage your back-ups of all your devices centrally. If your television or home theater system is connected to your network, you can also stream audio or video from your NAS. In other words, if you use your computer to place video or music on a NAS, your TV or home theater system can play this over the network.

What more can a NAS do?

Besides file sharing and backup, a NAS can do more. This does depend on the model you choose.

A NAS may be used:

• as a print server. Allows you to share a printer across the network.
• as an FTP server. Allows you to access your files via Internet.
• as a Web server. Allows you to host your own website.
• as a Bittorrent. Allows you to upload and download files.

Conclusion

Because we have a growing number of devices in our home network, a NAS is almost a must. Sharing files and back-up is a lot easier. Additional features such as printing or FTP servers are a nice addition to. When purchasing the NAS pay attention to what you buy. There are NAS systems offered without hard drives. This is not bad, if you take into account the price. You still must buy extra hard drives to place in the NAS.

Sources: www.todio.nl