NAS can be introduced inexpensively as a means of data storage and sharing. It is important to compare functions such as data capacity, RAID, remote access availability, etc., and choose a NAS that meets your company’s needs. In recent years, the introduction of cloud storage is increasing, but each has advantages and disadvantages. We will explain how to choose from the mechanism of NAS, and the differences when compared with other methods.
What is NAS
NAS is an abbreviation for Network Attached Storage. A storage device is connected to the network. Users can save and load data from storage devices via the network.
①Difference from DAS (HDD)
The method of directly connecting a server or computer to a storage device without going through a network is called DAS. DAS stands for Distributed Attached Storage. DAS is easy to deploy with no skill required.
On the other hand, efficient operation is difficult because the storage is not shared through the network. In addition, since the storage device and the computer are in a one-to-one relationship, multiple computers require time and effort to change connections.
(2) Difference from the file server
In a broad sense, NAS is considered to be one of the file servers. In order to introduce a file server, it is necessary to set up and build an OS on the server. Therefore, the introduction cost is higher than NAS. On the other hand, file servers are suitable for flexible operations such as storage expansion and detailed access control.
(3) General usage of NAS
The importance of NAS and file servers is increasing year by year due to the progress of digitization in many corporate activities. By using NAS, employees can always share the latest information within the company. This section introduces typical uses of NAS.
(1) Backup
Compared to file servers, NAS is suitable for information sharing among a small number of people and data storage with less management and operation . For example, regular backup of data on smartphones and servers is a typical example.
The frequency of obtaining and viewing backup data is limited. Therefore, server administrators prioritize cost and introduce NAS as a storage destination for backup data.
(2) File sharing
By using a NAS, you can share files used for business within an organization. It is also possible to partially allow access from outside the company by configuring settings such as VPN. NAS can be an effective means for short-term, small-scale projects where you want to share files while ensuring safety.
How NAS works
We will introduce the mechanism of NAS from both hardware and software aspects.
(1) Hardware (HDD/CPU)
NAS is designed to work without a keyboard or display. There are two core of hardware: HDD (hard disk) and CPU. NAS performance is determined by these two pieces of hardware, and there is a big difference in data storage capacity and access speed. Some high-end NAS models have multiple power supplies and cooling fans in case of a disaster.
②Software
NAS software runs on an OS built into the hardware, so its functionality is very limited. NAS software supports network protocols such as FTP, SMB, and AFP for file sharing. In recent years, NAS that can be accessed via the Internet using TCP/IP and NAS with a dynamic virus detection function have appeared.
How to choose a NAS
Here are five factors to consider when introducing a NAS.
①Disk capacity
The first thing to check when considering a NAS is the data capacity. Note that the display is different from Windows because it is calculated as 1000Byte = 1KByte for HDD.
Generally, NAS is considered to be 2 to 3 times the data used as a guideline. If you want to increase the capacity, you can replace the HDD later, but the HDD replacement work will take several hours to copy data. Considering the trouble of operation, select a NAS with sufficient capacity at the time of introduction.
②RAID
RAID is an abbreviation for Redundant Arrays of Inexpensive Disks and is a technology that virtually builds multiple HDDs as a single HDD to improve redundancy. RAID reduces the risk of failure by distributing and writing data to multiple HDDs. A number is assigned to the end, and high-performance functions are given as the number increases.
(1) RAID0
RAID0 is a method that divides data and stores data on multiple HDDs. Compared to NAS without RAID, high-speed access to data is realized. If one HDD fails, the NAS itself becomes unusable, so there is no redundancy or fault tolerance, so 0, which means nothing, is attached.
(2) RAID1
RAID1 uses a method (mirroring) in which the same data is written to multiple HDDs. Even if one of the HDDs fails, the other can still be operated, so it has excellent fault tolerance. On the other hand, it has the disadvantage of lower access speed and worsening capacity efficiency.
(3) RAID10 (RAID01)
RAID10 (RAID01) is a combination of RAID0 and RAID1 and offers superior speed, capacity, and fault tolerance. The configuration requires at least 4 HDDs. RAID0 or RAID1, the name changes depending on which one is used first. RAID10 is generally superior to RAID01 in terms of fault tolerance.
(3) Remote access
NAS has a function that can be accessed from outside via the Internet. By enabling remote access, work efficiency is improved, such as remote work and data backup from outside. On the other hand, remote access also increases the risk of information leakage , so it is necessary to pay attention to security measures.
④ User management function
The NAS user management function assigns access privileges such as administrators and users for each folder. If you are a small business, it does not take much time and effort to delete retirees. However, in the case of NAS shared by hundreds to thousands of people, complicated management is required. Let’s compare NAS by paying attention to the presence or absence of the user’s search function and the visibility of the management screen.
⑤OS (Linux/Windows)
There are various operating systems used by NAS manufacturers. Windows Storage Server and Linux are typical operating systems. Windows Storage Server can use Active Directory for user management.
Active Directory is a flexible service for large-scale data and user management in a Windows network. As a disadvantage, the cost increases because a Windows license is required.
On the other hand, Linux is cheaper to install than Windows. You can easily connect to not only Windows but also Mac. However, there are many cases where the functions for large numbers of people are not sufficient, so it is recommended for small-scale and low-cost installations.
The flow of NAS introduction
Compared to file servers, NAS is easier to introduce. This section introduces the basic flow of NAS installation.
①Purchase and installation of hardware
NAS, a network cable, and a router are the minimum hardware required to install a NAS. If the NAS and HDD are separate, you will also need to purchase the HDD.
While keeping the above points in mind, let’s organize the necessary NAS requirements in the company and proceed with the hardware purchase. Once the hardware has been procured, confirm the installation location, such as the company’s server room, and start setting up the connection from the company network to the NAS.
(2) NAS initial settings
The initial setup of the NAS is very simple.
(1) Installation of management software
You can manage the NAS from your computer over the network. Management software is distributed by manufacturers on the Internet. Install the software for your device.
(2) Connecting to NAS and creating users
After installing the software, connect to the NAS over the network. Once the connection is confirmed, set the administrator username and password. After creating the necessary user accounts, the initial setup is complete. The flow differs for each manufacturer, but the initial setup is completed in about an hour.
(3) Network settings
After completing the initial settings, assign an IP address to access the NAS from the network. A username and password will be issued individually to employees other than the administrator, and access rights to the NAS will be granted each time. For remote access, the setting is completed by setting the router and VPN. Employees can access the NAS from outside the company by simply connecting to a VPN.
④ Security settings
There are three typical NAS security risks: vulnerability, malware infection, and information leakage. If the NAS stores important corporate information such as customer and financial information, information leaks can seriously damage the credibility of the company.
Specific security measures include applying patch programs to NAS software, installing firewalls and anti-virus software as anti-malware measures, controlling information that can be accessed by each employee, and acquiring logs.
Which is better, NAS or cloud storage?
NAS and cloud storage have common features in terms of data storage. On the other hand, when considering operations, there is a big difference in management costs and expenses.
Since NAS purchases hardware, it requires an installation location and regular maintenance. With cloud storage, you don’t have to pay for hardware management just by signing a service contract.
Regarding the cost per capacity, NAS is cheaper. Cloud storage is often contracted on a monthly basis, and NAS has advantages for long-term storage.
Cloud storage is safer than NAS when considering data loss due to disasters, etc. Depending on the service provider, cloud storage provides disaster recovery, and a mechanism is built to prevent data loss in the event of a disaster.
In this way, NAS and cloud storage each have advantages and disadvantages. Let’s consider using NAS and cloud storage properly according to the needs of the company.
