What is a NAS and what is it for?
A NAS is a small storage server connected to your network. It centralises files, runs backups and can host applications such as a private cloud.
What it's for
- Shared files for the whole team or family, with per-user permissions.
- Backups of office or home computers.
- Private cloud: secure access to files from outside, via VPN or apps like Nextcloud.
- Photos and videos: a family library or a content creator's project archive.
- Camera recording in some cases.
- Applications: many NAS devices can run extra software in containers.
Drives and RAID
A NAS usually holds two or more drives in RAID: if one fails, data stays available while it's replaced. But RAID doesn't protect against deletion, ransomware or theft: the NAS still needs its own off-site backup.
How to choose one
- Capacity with room to grow.
- Network: 2.5 or 10 gigabit ports if you work with large files.
- NAS-grade drives, built to run 24/7.
- UPS: a power cut can damage data; the NAS should shut down cleanly.
There are commercial brands with their own operating system, and open source systems such as TrueNAS that run on your own server.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to access the NAS from outside?
Yes, through a VPN and with the system kept up to date. What you shouldn't do is expose the NAS directly to the internet.
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