Network Attached Storage Explained

Network attached storage or NAS, is a computer specifically designed for accessing files over a network. NAS devices contain one or more hard disks. Devices with more than one drive, quite often include redundancy called RAID (redundant array of independent disks). RAID protects data against hard disk failure. Network attached storage devices do not have a screen and keyboard, and are configured over the network.

Some Benefits of NAS devices

• Local storage where large files are not practical in a cloud.
• Remote access to files over the internet.
• Data protection with RAID. Cloud services for backups, like Amazon Drive and Drop Box.
• User rights to protect sensitive data.
• Real-time Antivirus.
• Data replication to other NAS devices.
• Cheaper than server systems.