Best Nas For Home Office
The Best NAS (Network Attached Storage) Devices for 2020. Networked storage is the most versatile storage, but that's just one of the many benefits of buying a NAS device. Synology is best known for its high-end network and storage systems for business users, but it does have a 'value' range for home users and small businesses. The two-bay DiskStation DS218 is the.
What is the best home NAS? Do you run a home business? If you do, you might have a lot of important data stored on your computer. If you do, you can understand the importance of backing up your data as there is a risk of important files getting, corrupted, lost, or deleted.
- Drobo 5N2: Network Attached Storage is an excellent NAS for small businesses and for home needs. As same as Synology, it has a user-friendly interface. It comes with the DroboApps and measures 5.9 x 7.3 x 10.3 inches.
- In contrast to that, tower NAS takes less space and is much easier to install and maintain but at the same time they usually offer less performance. Synology 4 bay NAS DiskStation DS418 is one of the best tower NAS with 4 disk bays suited for home or small office use.
Hard drives are the most common way to store data, but when you work on more than one computer, it can be difficult to access data from different machines. Also, if at any point, you don’t have access to the hard drive, you won’t be able to back up your data.
This is a big issue. Even though cloud options have become increasingly popular, some of us still need to store large amounts of data privately – or with custom setups. This is where Network Attached Storage (NAS), or NAS home server devices come into play. A network-based storage device can be incredibly useful for your home office.
Need for NAS Storage for Home Business
Network-based storage devices often prove beneficial when it comes to home businesses. You can enjoy many personal and business benefits when using them. Let’s have a look at the need for NAS devices for home business.
- You can use it to backup all your files that are stored in different computers involved in your home business.
- You don’t have to manually backup your data – you can schedule automatic backups.
- With NAS, it becomes much easier to share for clients, customers, and other business-facing individuals securely and easily.
- You will be able to get access to your files anywhere you are, with the help of the internet.
If you are also looking for a NAS server for home, you are in the right place. We reviewed is a list of the top five best NAS devices currently available in the market. Let’s hop into it.
The Best Network Attached Storage (NAS) for a Home Business
Synology 4 bay NAS DiskStation
The Synology 4 bay NAS DiskStation is an ideal device for people running a business at home. It has a powerful dual-core CPU which will speed things up for you. Time is one of the most valuable things when it comes to running a business. If your device takes up a lot of time to back up your files, it will be an issue. The Synology 4 bay NAS DiskStation is known for running smooth and preventing delays when backing up.
The standard model comes 4GB RAM and storage of up to 40 TB. This is a huge storage space, that will take you a very long time to run out of space. Depending on your business, this is a great way to provide some flexibility; you will not have to worry about space anymore.
Features:
Better Data Protection: With Synology NAS, you will get better data protection as it has the next-generation file system. It uses advanced storage technology to provide a smooth experience to the user. You can connect it to various devices at a time, and it will still run without any lag.
Scheduling: You can schedule the back-up process with this NAS server at your place.
Bulletproof Backup: There shouldn’t be any gaps when it comes to securing important data. That is why it has a bulletproof backup to secure accidental loss.
Personal Multi-Media Server: With this at your place, you don’t need any third-party license to stream your favorite multi-media on your devices. You get access to all your files on all the connected devices.
Anywhere File Access: With proper configuration, you can access all of your saved data anywhere and anytime you want. This is the kind of flexibility that this product brings to your business. All you need is an internet connection, and you are good to go.
QNAP TS-451+-2G-US 4-Bay Next Gen Personal Cloud NAS
QNAP TS-451 NAS is the solution to all your needs. With a 64-bit Intel Celeron quad-core 2.0GHz processor, it is a great option for your storage. Like most models, it is designed to backup fast. It has a RAM upgradeable up to 8GB, and you can configure it according to your requirement.
It comes in the TS-x51+ series, and the best part about it is that it can increase the clock speed from 2.0 GHz to 2.42 GHz. As you will find during your research, transfer rate is one of the most important things that you look into a NAS device.
If you are on the go, QNAP provides software for remote access, from anywhere with an internet connection, so you can connect it to different devices. If you find yourself missing or needing a few files right before a client meeting – have no fear. With proper configuration you should be able to access them in no time.
Features:
Transcode Full HD Videos Offline: Every NAS device enables you to share data when online. With this device at your place, you can transcode full HD videos on different devices even when offline. This is not offered by other NAS manufacturers.
Qsirch: You can search your files stored in it very quickly with their proprietary software Qsirch. This is a great feature as you don’t have to go through thousands of files to get to the one that you require.
Run Multiple Devices: You can run multiple Windows, Linux, and Android devices simultaneously. The best thing is that you can run Android devices as well, and that means you aren’t as reliant on mobile apps.
Looking at the features of the device, it can prove to be a perfect device for your storage needs. You may have to purchase an external hard drive, but the price it comes at compensates that cost. Also, it comes with 2 GB RAM out of the box. Consider upgrading if you require more RAM (never a bad idea), RAM is purchased separately.
QNAP TS-453Be-2G-US 4-Bay Professional NAS
The QNAP TS-453Be-2G-US 4-Bay Professional NAS comes with a 1.5 GHz processor to help you transfer all your important files quickly. The device is an Intel-powered NAS, and your data is safe with it. It becomes really important to keep the data when it comes to a business. With this device at your place, you will never have to worry about the safety of your important files.
This is not all; you can connect it to multiple devices and stream videos there. It will also bring flexibility in transferring data from one device to another. You won’t have to connect a hard drive to your computer with another wire, the system is completely wireless, and you can transfer as bigger files as you want through the internet. But, you don’t need the internet every time you need access to those files. This is the beauty of this product; however, you will need the internet if you want access to the files remotely.
To give you the best home NAS solution, QNAP supports a snapshot feature. You can take a snapshot of the saved data at any point in time to ensure the safety of your data. If you lose the data accidentally, it will be easier to recover the data this way. This provides an extra layer of security for your data.
Features:
2/4 GB RAM: You can choose from two different amounts of RAM when purchasing. This is great as you get to choose according to your needs and you would have to pay accordingly. However, you do have the flexibility to expand the RAM up to 8 GB.
Supports RAID: Another amazing feature of this device is that it supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10.
If you are looking for basic, data-housing NAS, this device sure can be a good pick. You can get all your needs fulfilled with it for your home business. It is a perfect device for storing files and sharing them across your devices.
Synology 2 bay NAS DiskStation DS718+ (Diskless)
This Synology 2 bay NAS Diskstation has a powerful dual-core CPU. It can handle large files with ease. This is one of the best features of this device. It is a perfect device for a home business and or a small company. If you are someone who works from home and has a lot of data that needs to be protected, it could be the one for you.
If you need media, it will allow you to enjoy hassle-free and high-quality video playback on your devices. This is not all; you can use it in both online and offline modes. This is a great feature as it can still come in useful if you don’t want to occupy your network.
File sharing and syncing will become easier than ever if you have it at your place. Your data will be safe with it, and you can store much more data at a time as compared to a hard drive. This is where it becomes more useful as it provides you with much more room to store files. Apart from your business needs, you can also store your multi-media here. The device is packed with some amazing features. Let’s have a look at them.
Features:
Over 226 Mbps sequential reading: This device works really great when it comes to speed.. It provides the user with over 226 Mbps sequential reading and 188 Mbps writing.
Bulletproof Backup: Keeping your data safe is one of the most important things. That is why it comes with a bulletproof backup. It will keep your data safe in case of any accidents.
Anywhere File Access: You don’t need to be near the device to get access to your files. With the help of the internet, you can browse through your files from anywhere you want. It is an amazing feature and can prove helpful at times.
This Network Attached Storage NAS device can prove to be very beneficial for your home business. However, you can do much more than that with this device. You can share your favorite multi-media files through different devices connected to it All in all, it is a perfect fit for you if you have huge data files to take care of.
Synology 2 bay NAS DiskStation DS218j (Diskless)
Like other NAS, the Synology 2 Bay DS218j comes without disks, giving you the option of purchasing your own hard drives if you would like. This is helpful if you already have disks or want to meet specific requirements.
It will become your personal cloud storage device. With this at your place, you will never have to worry about running out of storage. It works fast when it comes to data transfer speed. You will get an amazing performance of over 113 MB/s reading.
You can get access to your files from anywhere in this world with QNAPs mobile apps. The best part about it is that it is very easy to use, and there are no complex commands or functions that you have to go through to operate it.
Features:
DiskStation Manager: The DSM operating system of the device makes it pretty simple to back up your files. Similarly, it increases the speed of data transfer which is a great thing.
Bulletproof Backup: When it comes to the security of your data, there are no voids in this NAS storage device. You can rely on it, and you would never have to worry about the safety of your data.
Personal Multimedia Server: It will become your personal multimedia server as you can browse through your favorite files on all the connected devices.
This concludes our recommended list for Network Attached Storage solutions for the home office. However, if you are interested, many enthusiasts also make their own using software found on the internet and hard drives. Additionally, here are some things that you should keep in mind when purchasing a NAS:
Factors to keep in mind when buying home NAS solution
1. RAM:
RAM is an important consideration for a new NAS. Models with additional RAM, or the option to add RAM can be a very wise decision because a NAS can have multiple functions going on at the same time (e.g., transferring data, streaming media, being accessed from outside the home).
Most models come with, or allow you to add up to at least 2 GB, 4 GB, and 8 GB RAM and most allow for more than that.
Fortunately, RAM doesn’t need to be purchased right away, you can add it based on your needs as you begin to use the NAS more often.
2. Storage:
Your storage needs can vary – or evolve – over the life of your NAS. It is always a good idea to do some math based on how much storage you need now, and your anticipated level of growth to determine a need for storage. This should help narrow down your decision for NAS, for instance, if you need 20TB a 2 disk NAS probably not do the job. But don’t forget about RAID or backup options, that 20TB total storage of disks may not end up being a true 20TB after you setup your NAS. Finally, you may find yourself in a situation where you need to add storage later.
3. Whether it supports expandable storage or not:
Before buying a NAS storage device, determine if it has an expandable storage feature or not. In some cases – depending on how your NAS is set up, you can’t simply add hard drives without some configuration, or at all.
4. Protection against device failure:
What if your device crashes and all your data get lost? It would be frustrating, wouldn’t it?! Each manufacturer offers different options for storage protection. Some differ, but all aim to do the same thing – protect your data. Most of them do a good job of this, but some do it in different ways.
5. Remote Access:
Do you need to access your data away from home? What for? What files? How big are the files?
While most manufacturers offer this, some make it easier than others and depending on your hardware (see RAM, transfer speeds), but it may impact how fast you are able to transfer.
6. Ethernet:
Most devices come with a hardwired ethernet connection. We recommend having your NAS connected directly to your router for quicker, more secure access.
7. Power Consumption:
Unlike your laptop or desktop, your home server might not power down fully. It keeps running so it is ready whenever you need it, in other words, this is by design. What does this mean? It’s using power, or electricity constantly. Most offer low-power modes to help minimize the amount of energy being used. For example, your NAS may be set to go into low power mode when you anticipate using it all the time.
8. Multi-Device Functioning:
Plan on sharing the NAS with the family, or other co-workers? Or two of your own devices at once? Not uncommon at all. This is another feature that will also be impacted by the hardware specs you decide. If you don’t need your NAS for multi-media functionality, this is less of a concern.
9. Cost:
Be prepared to spend at least $400 on a NAS. This will include your NAS, additional RAM, and your desired level of storage. You will find more popular brands (QNAP, Synology) have higher prices, this is normal. These brands offer software and other features that are built into the price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a NAS Server and Why do I need one?
Network Attached Storage (NAS) is a file-level server which is connected to a group of computers. This way, people can access to saved files remotely or locally. Many people use them to save multimedia files – movies, music, photography, etc. With proper setup, you can access your files on media boxes connected to your TV.
NAS devices also work well when it comes to a home-based business. For example, they provide a private cloud option with a one-time, non-recurring fee. You can store and encrypt all your important files there with full control, and they will be secure. Most likely with this option you will not be worrying about running out of storage.
What is a NAS Drive?
A NAS drive is a type of network drive. It uses network-attached storage to store files directly via the computer or device just like a locally attached disk. It works really well as it provides the users with a much better transfer rate and is seamless.
Which one is better, a hard disk or a NAS device?
It is all based on your needs.
Many people choose a NAS because:
- You have full control over encryption and security of your data
- You have a seemingly limitless amount of data (e.g., 40TB)
- It is a one-time cost, instead of a monthly fee
- They provide robust backup options to reduce the risk of losing important data
How much RAM do I need for my NAS?
The more the better, but it depends on how you will be using it. If you are storing small documents for security, you probably only need 2GB of RAM. If you have lots of large files, and anticipate streaming them on your television and accessing them remotely, or have many users accessing at once, anticipate at least 8GM of RAM. Fortunately, you can add RAM at any time.
Conclusion
We love our QNAP NAS for our home business. Even though we stopped using it for media streaming (thanks Spotify, Netflix, Hulu…), it still provides many convenient features and we sleep well at night knowing our private and important documents are secure and safe. We have our data stored in a RAID and haven’t ever had any concerns about losing the data.
If you have a small number of files to save and they don’t need to be highly secure (yet), then maybe a cloud-based, monthly subscription option is best. But, if your business is ready to scale up and you want to be able to ensure your clients that their data and information is safe, a NAS can provide that assurance.
Hi there! My name is Andrew and I write for Home Business Gear. I am an avid reader and writer. I spent 5+ years in consulting technology and now I enjoy reading and writing about tech, small business, marketing, and other related topics. In my spare time, you can find me doing tech projects or learning about new tech topics. Have a question? Send me a message!
Those who work together on photo editing, video editing or in any other industry that requires storing lots of videos, photos or other files, sooner or later realize that storing files on separate computers is not the best idea. Moving files between PCs—especially if they are large—becomes an incredibly difficult and time-consuming task. That is where NAS or Network Attached Storage enters the chat. These devices allow you to store lots of data on one large server that is always available for devices within your network. It is much cheaper to use compared to cloud storage and it offers much more flexibility. Depending on the needs of the user, NAS can offer from few to thousands of terabytes of free space.
NAS is a good solution not only for office or enterprise use. Many people buy small NAS for home use and storing their media library thus make it available on all devices whether it is a PC, Mac, tablet or smartphone. In addition to that, NAS offers data redundancy and lowers the risk of data loss in case of HDD or SSD failure. In this article, we are going to tell what you need to know when shopping for a NAS.
How to Choose a NAS?
Let us start with the NAS form-factor as it defines lots of different options and features available for your disposal. There are two different types of NAS. One is rack-mounted and the second is a regular tower. Rack NAS looks more like a regular server and it is optimized for better performance and large disk capacities (it works with no less than 4 drives installed and more). In addition to that, rack NAS is usually equipped with two PSUs for power redundancy. If one PSU fails, secondly keeps your data accessible with no interruptions.
Solid rack-mounted NAS options include
If you want to buy a rack NAS, prepare for some inconveniences. For example, it takes much more space than a regular tower NAS, it is very noisy, and it is less user-friendly to install and maintain. In contrast to that, tower NAS takes less space and is much easier to install and maintain but at the same time they usually offer less performance.
Long story short: tower NAS is more than enough for home use or a small office. Medium business, big production team and large companies will have to stick to a powerful rack-mounted NAS.
NAS Drives
Usually, NAS comes with no preinstalled drives. You need to buy separate drives and install them on your own. This leads to a few additional nuances you need to consider. First, is it possible to replace a drive on the go without turning off a NAS? Second, how drives are mounted? Special sliders make drive installation hassle-free and easy. Third, consider disk size. They are SFF and LFF or 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch. Fourth is cooling. The hard drive itself generates a lot of heat and if there are many drives, the amount of heat increases drastically. Cooling is very important so make sure the NAS of your choice offers good cooling. If you buy a NAS for home use, make sure the place for it is well-vented and has a constant flow of fresh air, otherwise, your NAS will overheat.
Another good thing is a special door with a lock to protect your drives from stealing and unauthorized access.
Usually, NAS works with any regular drive you can put inside your PC but some are better suited for network usage. NAS-oriented drives offer larger cache and bigger warranty, plus they are filled with helium to reduce the turbulence generated from a spinning disk. Also, consider buying drives that are optimized for RAID in configuration RAID1, RAID0 or RAID5. RAID combinations offer data redundancy and protect you from data loss in case of drive malfunction.
- RAID 1 combines disks and records information in a mirrored fashion so that the disks secure each other, which also speeds up the reading of data. Uses a minimum of 2 HDDs.
- RAID 0 combines disks and doubles the access speed, but does not affect fault tolerance. Also at least 2 HDDs.
- RAID 5 is a RAID configuration that uses disk striping with parity. Positively affects fault tolerance, it is used from 3 HDDs.
Network Attached Storage Nas
If you don’t want to bother choosing a hard drive for your NAS, consider options with preinstalled drives like
In case you are willing to buy HDDs for your NAS on your own, consider the following options:
Best Nas For Home Office
Additional Features
To improve your experience, NAS manufacturers offer additional features. For example, additional Ethernet port for network expansion, additional USB ports for external drives connection, printer support, one-button backup, etc. Also, some NAS solutions come with built-in Wi-Fi. Such an option will be useful for home-use and streaming.
Best Nas Storage
READ ALSOChoosing RAM for PC: Purchasing GuideNAS CPU and RAM
NAS can use simple Intel Atom in budget versions, and in top-end models, you can find something like Intel Xeon or Intel Core. Some NAS models have ARM processors. NAS with ARM CPU is a good choice for use at home or in a small office where the number of connections to network storage drives is small. It is also worth noting that NAS with ARM processor is very difficult to modernize or repair because RAM and the processor are soldered directly on the motherboard. This makes upgrading ARM-based NAS almost impossible.
In addition to the processor and the network controller, overall performance and the simultaneous number of connections depending on the amount of RAM in your NAS. Here’s the rule of thumb: 1 GB of RAM per 1 TB of data. This means that a 16TB NAS array must be equipped with at least 16 GB of RAM.
AuthorRecent PostsCyril KardashevskyI enjoy technology and developing websites. Since 2012 I'm running a few of my own websites, and share useful content on gadgets, PC administration and website promotion.Latest posts by Cyril Kardashevsky (see all)