A network storage device such as a network-attached storage (NAS) device, helps a network in many ways. The NAS devices work as a shared volume for backing up and sharing files across the network, while other network devices may be able to do a lot more; such as share a printer for network users, stream media for users and manage surveillance by supporting IP cameras. For small networks, a NAS devices with a single drive is sufficient while NAS with multiple drives offer superior data protection and advanced capacities.
Modern businesses are constantly faced with shortage of storage space, due to dramatic growth of digital data. With time, the emails, documents and databases all require more space and slow down the system. More IT managers are using networked storage to provide scalable storage and a centralized backup system. This set up also allows for easy file sharing and cloud storage. The perfect network storage server offers high performance storage for SMB, corporations, and homes.
It is now easy to create a virtual environment using these NAS servers. A network manager can create clouds and clusters as the enterprise requires. Most servers offer business applications to maximize the effectiveness of the data centers in the work place. Good machines use next-generation Intel® Atom Dual-Core processors and atleast 1GB DDRII RAM for intensive data transfer. Look for high data transfer speeds with less power consumption at a low price.
The Synology DiskStation DS712+ is a great network storage server for home and a small office, if you just want to back up data. The design and features offer ease-of-use. The DS712+ does not support USB 3.0, and has only one IP camera license. It comes with basic setup utility and backup software. Comparatively, the Netgear ReadyNAS NV+ v2 offers better performance. The suitable drive bay design and USB 3.0 support make it a better choice. Its X-RAID2 configuration lets you manage storage easily. The ReadyNAS Ultra 4 offers more storage and better features and is more costly.
If you like a web based interface you will like the Iomega StorCenter ix2-200 NAS server. This network storage server offers high performance, RAID configurations and ample storage space at a low cost. You will like the self-downloading, IP camera support, and remote access features. When you require simple file sharing and data backup, this speedy device will serve as an affordable storage center. The extra storage space and a three year warranty make it a better storage server as compared to other servers.
People who are looking for a network storage device for a small set up can check out the QNAP TS-259 Pro. This server machine offers RAID configurations, excellent speed, and a lot more features than other storage centers. The Web interface makes it easy to use, while the Apple’s Time Machine, and IP cameras lets you set up an automatic surveillance system fast.