Are you a business owner? Are you looking for a centralized way to allow your employees to access and share important documents? Or, perhaps you are looking to create a centralized storage space for multiple users in your home.
With a network attached storage device, multiple users will be able to store, share, and access documents whenever they are connected to your network. To help you select the best product to meet your needs, we have reviewed five of the top network attached storage options that are available. After reading through our reviews, you should be able to place your order and get your new device set up and ready for you and your employees to use.
Top 5: Network Attached Storage Review
Product Image & Rating (Out Of 10) | Product Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
9.8 | ||
9.6 | ||
9.4 | ||
9.2 | ||
9.1 |
The Synology 2 bay NAS DiskStation DS218+ comes with a 2GB DDR3L memory. If you end up needing more space, it can be expanded up to as much a 6GB. This is also a high-speed option; it operates using a dual-core processor.
To allow you and others to easily share files within your network, this product is able to support different sharing protocols. Some of these protocols include AFP, NFS, CIFS, and FTP. Individuals will be able to sync files from different devices and remote locations.
To keep your data secure, the processor has an EAS-NI encryption engine. This product can also help you with video management tools. It will allow you to view live-stream feeds from multiple internet protocol cameras; keeping you and your important items secure. You will also be able to use this item is transcode videos into 1080p. This will make it so they can be streamed on digital media players, TVs, and other devices.
Setting up this option is simple, and the software comes preloaded with multiple apps that are designed to help you manage your data. You won't need to worry about being able to access any of your documents, whether you are at home or are far away.
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You'll appreciate how quickly the NETGEAR ReadyNAS RN422 2 Bay Diskless High Performance NAS operates. It uses 64-bit technology to allow it to process information up to two times faster than other options.
This is a great option if you need storage space for multiple larger files. It will also serve as a backup of your data; ensuring that your information is saved. This option will also allow you to back up your data on to the cloud, through Dropbox, Amazon AWS, Google Drive, or other platforms.
You'll have access to the NETGEAR Insight app when you purchase this product. The app will allow you to maintain and monitor the different devices on your network.
This product is a great choice if your organization has less than 40 users. Sharing files will be easy with this option; allowing users to access the same documents from different devices or locations. It will also support HD video streaming.
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The QNAP TS-451+-2G-US 4-Bay Next Gen Personal Cloud NAS will make it easy to create a centralized and shareable documents storage location. It comes with 2GB or DDR3L RAM. If needed, you can upgrade this amount to 8GB.
This product features two LAN ports that offer as much as 225MB/s read and write speeds. To keep your documents secure, this product supports AES 256-bit volume and folder encryption. It is capable of transferring documents as fast as 205MB a second.
The Intel Celeron 2.0GHz quad-core processor can be increased up to 2.4GHz for more intense tasks, speeding up the overall performance of this unit.
If you wish, you can use an HDMI cable to connect this product to a high-definition TV. This will allow you to view your high-definition videos on a larger screen than your computer offers. It is compatible with different streaming devices, such as Google Chromecast, AppleTV, Amazon Firestick, Roku, and more.
To allow you to keep your data secure and properly backed-up, this item offers Time Machine capability, Netback Replicator, and Hybrid Backup Sync. It is compatible with both PCs and MACs.
For shared access of files and documents, the File Station is ideal. It allows users access to files from anywhere.
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The WD Diskless My Cloud Pro Series PR4100 Network Attached Storage features an Intel Pentium quad-core processor. It has a 4GB DDR3L Memory. With this option, you can transcode videos for HD streaming.
This product will provide you with easy to access network storage. This will aid in improving the productivity and workflow in your office or business. User will be able to gain access to and save documents from remote locations.
You can feel confident that your information is secure when you purchase this product. It is password protected and utilizes AES 256-bit volume encryption.
This option is compatible with multiple devices and operation systems. Some of the systems it will work with includes Windows 7, 8, or 10 and MAC OS X Mountain Lion, Mavericks, Yosemite, or El Capitan.
To use this product, you will need a router that has an internet connection as well as DLNA/UPnP or plex-enabled computers or other devices.
This product can help you to backup and protect your data in a variety of ways. You can choose to back up to the cloud or use a separate My Cloud device if you prefer.
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If you are looking for an entry level product, consider the Synology 2 bay NAS DiskStation DS218j. The option has a dual-core CPU that will help encrypt your data to keep it secure.
With this product, you can access your files and documents remotely from your devices. You will have access to mobile apps (for iOS, Android, and Windows), that will make it simple to get to what you need regardless of where you are located.
You'll appreciate how easy it is to get started using this product. The QuickConnect option will let you connect your devices using a custom address. This will allow you to instantly access your files.
You can use this option to stream HD videos, TV shows, or movies to your devices. Just connect it to a computer, Samsung Smart TV, Google Chromecast, AppleTV, or more to enjoy superior streaming of videos and images.
This option offers a performance of over 113 MD/s for reading and 112 MB/s for writing. You can also use the Surveillance Station feature to view live images from your internet protocol cameras.
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Buying Guide
Whether you have a small business or are just looking to be able to access your files from multiple devices, you will appreciate owning a network attached storage system. In addition to allowing devices on your network access to your documents, a NAS can also perform functions such as encrypting your data, backing it up, and allowing you to stream high-definition videos.
There are a few different features you will want to compare when you are looking for a network attached storage system. Take some time now to really think about what you are looking for in the product you purchase. This will help ensure that you are satisfied with the choice you make.
First, you will want to pay attention to the available storage space. Be sure to pick an option that will provide you with enough space for all the documents you or your organization will need to store. Choosing a product that can be upgraded to provide additional storage space in the future is also something you should consider.
Next, consider the size of your organization and the number of users on your network. Be sure to select an option that can accommodate this number of people.
If you think you or others in your group will be accessing files from remote locations often, you will want to make sure you choose a product that makes it easy to do so. Some options even come with mobile or desktop apps that will really simplify this process.
Finally, be sure to choose an option that is compatible with a wide variety of devices. This will help ensure that you don't experience any issues using it now or in the future.
Top Pick
Out of the five products we reviewed, our top choice is the Synology 2 bay NAS DiskStation DS218+ (Diskless). This option comes with a 2GB memory, but you'll be able to expand it up to 6GB as your needs changes.
It can support a variety of sharing protocols, which will make it easy for you or your employees to access and share various documents. It features an EAS-NI encryption engine that will help keep your data safe and secure.
With this product, you'll also be able to transcode and stream video. Additionally, the preloaded apps will assist you in managing your data.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Network Attached Storage?
Network attached storage is simply a storage device that can be accessed when one is connected to that network. It allows multiple users to access and share various documents. Network attached storage systems can also grow with you based on your needs. If you need additional storage space, you can modify your current system; you won't need to purchase an entirely new product.
How Is a Network Attached Storage System Different from an External Hard Drive?
Typically, the data on an external hard drive is only accessible from the computer that is currently attached to it. With a network attached storage system, anyone who is connected to the network will be able to access the file and documents.
Can I Set up My Own Network Attached Storage System?
Yes, you should be able to set up your own NAS system without the help of a professional. With most systems, you'll just need to connect it to your network. Once it is connected, your computers, tablets, and other devices that are on your network should be able to access it. With some NAS systems, you will also need to install software on your devices before they'll be able to access the system.
Why Should I Buy a Network Attached Storage System?
There are a variety of benefits you'll enjoy with a NAS system. It will allow you and other to easily share files or print to a centralized printer. Additionally, you can use the NAS to backup files and other documents from the computers attached to the network. You and employees will also be able to access stored documents remotely.
Final Verdict
Now that you have read through our reviews, it is time for you to decide which option will best meet your needs. Then, be sure to place your order so you can begin using your new network attached storage system right away.
