Network attached storage buying guide

Posted on 14 Dec 2009 at 15:04

 

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Find out all you need to know about choosing the right network attached storage.

Recommended minimum specifications

Capacity: 250GB

Interface: 100/1,000Mbit/s Ethernet

Follow the steps to choose your ideal specs

1. A basic network-attached storage (NAS) device with the specifications above will cost around £100. It has only a single hard disk, so you'll need to make backups to protect your data, and you can't upgrade its storage capacity. Its Gigabit Ethernet interface means that it transfers data quickly, although to use it at this speed you'll need computers with Gigabit Ethernet network adaptors and a Gigabit Ethernet switch or router. Computers with 10/100 adaptors will still be able to access the NAS device, but at just 100Mbit/s.
2. The amount of network storage you need depends on the types of files you use. If you want to store Word and Excel documents, for example, a 250GB device will be more than enough. If you intend to store DVD-quality video, on the other hand, you'll need much more. A single uncompressed DVD image can take up to 8.5GB of data, so even a modest media collection will require around 500GB of storage space.
3. If you can see no end to your storage needs, consider buying an upgradable NAS device. Many have a USB port so you can add a second, external disk. Devices such as Synology's barebones NAS kits with spare disk trays allow for cheaper and faster upgrades in the future.
4. If you want extra protection for your data, look for a device that supports RAID. A RAID 1 or RAID 5 array reduces the available capacity, but if one disk fails then your data remains safe.
5. If you need access to your files while you're away from home or the office, look for a NAS with an FTP server. Some NAS devices can share a USB printer across your network, saving you the expense of a buying an Ethernet printer. A NAS device with a Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) media server can stream your music, photos and videos to a network media player, so you can enjoy your media collection in another room.

Author: Expert Reviews Staff