Network Attached Storage vs Server: Which One is Better for Your Network?

As a business owner, you know that data storage is important. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to decide which system is right for your needs.

Do you need increased flexibility and portability? Or are security, data protection, and performance more important to you? Our comparison of Network Attached Storage (NAS) and Server systems will help you decide which option is best for your business. In most cases, a server system will provide the best security, data protection, and performance for your needs.

What is Network Attached Storage?

Network Attached Storage (NAS) is a type of storage that connects to a network and can be accessed by multiple devices. NAS systems typically consist of one or more servers that store data and provide access to it over the internet or an internal network.

This type of storage is often used in businesses where there are multiple users who need access to the same files or databases. NAS systems can either be cloud-based, where all data is stored on remote servers, or direct-attached, where all data is stored locally on individual hard drives connected directly to the server. Clustered NAS systems combine both cloud and direct-attached storage in order to improve performance while still providing redundancy in case of any failures.

Architecture

Network-attached storage devices are provided with processors of either the x86-64 or ARM architecture. The ARM architecture is intended for energy-saving mobile devices and has simplified instructions, while the x86-64 architecture is designed for high performance.

Even compact NAS devices with x86-64 processors are power-saving devices, but their performance is not as high as it would be if they had powerful processors due to the lack of a cooling system that can be housed in a small NAS case and preserve low noise levels.

Disk drives

Disk drives are storage devices that can be used to store data. They are commonly found in computers, NAS devices, and other electronic devices. They consist of one or more magnetic disks that rotate at high speeds and store data. Disk drives are typically made from aluminum or glass-plastic composite materials for durability and heat dissipation purposes.

High-performance HDDs produce more vibrations than normal hard disks due to their faster rotation speeds, which can have a negative impact on the lifespan of other disk drives if they are used together in a single case or system environment.

Memory capacity

Network-attached storage (NAS) is a type of file server that connects to a network and allows users to access its storage resources. The maximum memory capacity for NAS devices depends on the number of DIMM or SO-DIMM slots available and the maximum memory module capacity for the appropriate DDR generation.

Portable NAS devices are ready to use once you install disk drives and initialize or upgrade the pre-installed operating system. These devices use special operating systems developed for their vendors, such as Disk Station Manager (DSM) for Synology devices, QTS for QNAP devices, WD My Cloud OS for Western Digital devices, etc., which limit their functionality.

Configuration

Network storage requires configuration in order to function properly. This includes setting up user accounts, assigning permissions, and configuring network settings. With the proper configuration in place, network storage can provide powerful processing and sharing capabilities while protecting against accidental deletion, disasters, and cyber attacks.

What Is a File Server?

A file server is a computer that helps keep files and information organized on a network. It enables users to share files easily, without having to transfer them physically. A file server can be found in many offices, schools, and homes today.

The file server stores and makes available data blobs to clients, serving as a central location to store files for a network. They can be open to the internet or limited to a single local area network (LAN). File servers are commonly targeted by hackers and ransomware, so attention must be given to securing them against attacks.

Deployment

The deployment process for a file server typically involves four steps: planning, configuring, deploying, and maintaining. First, you need to plan the deployment and determine which type of server will meet your needs best. Then you need to configure the server with the appropriate software and settings for optimal performance.

Once deployed, you must maintain it regularly to ensure it continues to run smoothly. Finally, if any changes are needed in the future, you can redeploy it easily without having to reinstall it from scratch again.

Configuration

A file server needs to be properly configured to offer extensive processing, sharing features, and protection against deletion, disasters, and cyberattacks. The right configuration of a file server allows organizations to use its features while keeping their data secure. To configure a file server, an administrator must consider the network layout, security requirements, and user needs.

Architecture

File servers are equipped with different types of processors depending on their intended use. The x86-64 architecture is typically found in file servers because it is designed for high performance. However, the ARM architecture is often used in mobile devices because it saves energy and has simplified instructions that are not as powerful as those found in x86-64 processors.

Even though compact NAS devices have x86-64 processors, they are power-saving devices because the processor does not require a cooling system.

What are the benefits of using network-attached storage?

1. Increased File Sharing Capabilities

Using network-attached storage (NAS) increases file-sharing capabilities because it offers an array of options for specialization and configuration. It also provides powerful processing and sharing capabilities to ensure that files are protected against accidental deletion, disasters, and cyber attacks.

By using a NAS, users can share files easily with their colleagues or friends across different devices such as smartphones or laptops. They also have access to advanced features such as cloud backup or remote access which allows them to access their files from anywhere at any time without the need for physical storage space on their end.

2. Improved Data Protection and Security

Using network-attached storage (NAS) improves data protection and security by providing an offsite backup solution for your files. It allows you to store your files on a remote server, ensuring that they are safe from any potential threats such as natural disasters or cyberattacks.

NAS offers advanced security features such as password protection and encryption to ensure that your data is always secure. Finally, it provides real-time monitoring of access activity so that you can track who has accessed which files and when.

3. Increased File Access Speeds

Using network-attached storage (NAS) devices increases file access speeds because they contain storage drives managed by a pair of controllers. The controllers can optimally manage only a fixed number of drives, resulting in faster access times for files stored on the NAS device. Additionally, multiple users can access the files simultaneously without experiencing any lag or slowdown in performance.

4. Increased Scalability

Using network-attached storage (NAS) devices increases scalability by allowing users to add more storage capacity by purchasing additional NAS drives.

The controllers of these devices have a performance and capacity limit that can optimally manage only a fixed number of drives. Once this limit is reached, users must purchase a new scale-up device which results in two independent silos of file storage.

5. Improved Ease of Use

Using network-attached storage (NAS) devices can improve ease of use as they are user-friendly, require minimal setup and configuration, and come pre-packaged with dedicated applications. NAS devices simply need to be powered up and plugged into the network in order to start functioning as a file or media server.

This eliminates the need for specialized knowledge or experience in order to set up and configure the device correctly. Furthermore, NAS devices have very limited customization options which make repairs harder than with servers.

Conversely, servers offer more flexibility as components such as hard drives and processors can be swapped or added with relative ease. Additionally, cloud solutions such as AWS, and Azure offer both easy setup/configuration along with scalability making them an even better option for users who want more control over their data storage needs.

6. Increased File Sharing Convenience

Using network-attached storage (NAS) devices increases file-sharing convenience as they allow users to access and share data from any device on the network. NAS devices offer features such as user-friendly interfaces, folder-sharing capabilities, remote access options, and backup utilities.

However, scale-up NAS devices consist of storage drives managed by a pair of controllers which have performance and capacity limits. Once these limits are reached you have to purchase a new scale-up device resulting in two independent silos of file storage. This can be frustrating for users who want their files available in one central location without having to switch between two different systems constantly.

7. Increased Ability to Handle Large Data Volumes

Using network-attached storage (NAS) can increase the ability to handle large data volumes. NAS servers are designed to provide high-performance, robust storage for larger organizations that need to manage large amounts of data. They offer the greater processing power, memory capacity, and disk space compared to traditional servers.

NAS servers allow users to access their files from any device connected to the local network or over the internet – providing greater accessibility and convenience for users.

8. Increased Versatility of NAS Systems

Using a NAS system increases versatility by allowing it to perform a variety of functions, such as working as file servers, print servers, application database servers, and web servers. It also allows users to integrate multiple functions into one system.

Compared with servers which require more power and are more expensive than NAS systems, NAS systems are relatively inexpensive and have fewer configuration requirements since they don’t have to meet end users’ requirements for application provisioning like a server would need to do.

NAS systems typically work stand-alone without being connected to other machines, unlike servers which are always connected to disk arrays. Lastly, NAS systems are more efficient than servers because they optimize the hardware and software architecture of the system resulting in faster response speed and bandwidth when transferring data between the client(s) and storage device(s).

9. Greater Efficiency in Data Archival and Backup Solutions

Network attached storage (NAS) offers a convenient way to store, access, and back up data. It provides a centralized location where you can store large amounts of data and easily share it with others.

Using NAS for data archival and backup solutions offer several benefits such as increased efficiency, scalability, and simplicity. NAS systems typically have powerful features such as comprehensive access control lists (ACLs), automatic file synchronization across multiple devices, replication capabilities for disaster recovery purposes, and more.

They are designed to be easy to set up so that users can quickly begin storing or backing up their data without any technical knowledge or assistance from IT professionals.

10. Improved Reliability and Stability of NAS Systems

Using network-attached storage (NAS) systems can improve the reliability and stability of a system. This is because NAS systems pool storage capacity and share it with application servers over a high-speed network.

This allows users to centrally access, replicate, and protect all their storage as a single collective resource. Additionally, NAS systems can use additional technologies such as RAID and data deduplication to optimize storage capacity and reliability.

What are the advantages of using a server for data storage?

1. A server offers greater storage capacity and performance than a NAS.

Both a server and NAS device offer a way to share files across devices on a network. Both can be configured to control who has access to specific files and folders, with the server typically offering more powerful hardware and greater functionality than a NAS device.

A server typically offers more configuration options in terms of security and more granular access controls than a NAS device. In addition, to file storage and sharing, NAS devices can also be used to automatically create locally stored backups of your business data. However, for the ultimate in data protection, you need to keep a copy of your critical information stored off-site with cloud backup solutions like Carbonite.

2. A server can access a wider range of applications and file formats.

Servers can be used to store and access a wide range of applications and file formats, including:

• Client-server applications
• Access management tools for host networks
• Media servers need to transcode media to different formats.

3. A server provides better security and data protection than a NAS

Both a server and NAS device offer the ability to control who has access to specific files and folders. Administrators can create user groups and give them access to the files they need to do their jobs. A server typically offers more configuration options in terms of security and more granular access controls than a NAS device.

A server typically offers greater power than a NAS device, providing more functionality such as automated backups for business data stored locally or offsite with cloud backup solutions like Carbonite. Additionally, servers require specialized expertise in order to manage and service them properly whereas most people can set up their own NAS device without any special training or certifications.

4. Servers can be integrated into a company’s IT infrastructure easier than NAS.

Server-based systems offer higher security and are easier to integrate into a company’s IT infrastructure than NAS solutions. NAS devices operate on a global namespace to share data within local area networks (LANs), which can leave them vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Furthermore, NAS devices are susceptible to environmental factors and can be easily picked up and stolen compared to servers that have built-in firewalls to protect data from outside threats. Additionally, servers have more configuration options which makes them easier to manage than NAS file servers.

5. Servers offer greater scalability than NAS

NAS devices and file servers can both be used to host applications. Both offer scalability, with file servers providing greater processing power and NAS devices offering fewer choices in terms of applications that can be run.

File servers often require companies to purchase server operating systems which drive up the price due to licensing requirements, whereas most NAS software comes with the NAS device and does not require licensing. Additionally, file servers are typically more expensive than NAS devices due to their increased functionality and processing power.

6. A server is more versatile than a NAS

Both devices can run on Open source software. However, a NAS does not need regular security checking while a server needs top-notch protection to keep the data safe. The main purpose of a NAS is only for data storage while a server has many functions such as supporting multiple file types and running videos.

7. Servers are more cost-effective than NAS

NAS servers and other servers both offer effective, scalable, and low-cost storage. NAS file servers provide faster data access than other types of servers and are easier to configure and manage.

Unlike other types of servers, NAS file servers cannot support complex business applications such as private email systems or accounting databases. Additionally, they may have limited scalability depending on the size of the business or organization using them.

8. Servers offer greater reliability than NAS

NAS devices and file servers offer similar levels of reliability. Both can be used to host applications, provide services such as backup, sync, and sharing, and provide disaster recovery in case of hardware failure.

Server operating systems often require companies to purchase a server license, which drives up the price. In contrast, most NAS software comes with the NAS device and does not require licensing. Additionally, servers typically offer more processing power than NAS devices which makes them more expensive overall.

9. Servers offer better customization options than NAS

NAS devices are user-friendly and require minimal setup and configuration. They often come pre-packaged with dedicated applications and are pretty much plug-and-play. Servers, on the other hand, are much more flexible and can be customized to suit different purposes. The customization options also extend to the hardware as components such as hard drives and processors can be swapped or added with relative ease.

In contrast, the customization and flexibility of servers mean that they require technical knowledge and experience to set up correctly. NAS devices have very limited customization options compared to servers, which offers greater flexibility for individuals or businesses looking for a file or media server solution. Finally, cloud solutions such as AWS offer both convenience (ease of use) as well as scalability (ability to scale up when needed).

10. A server offers greater uptime than a NAS

Uptime is extremely important when using a server for data storage. A server typically offers more powerful hardware and greater functionality than a NAS device, which means it has a higher chance of failure due to its larger size and more complex components.

File servers provide more configuration options in terms of security and granular access controls than NAS devices do, allowing you to ensure that your data remains safe even if there is an outage or other problem with your hardware or network connection.

Having local backups of your business data stored on a NAS device can help reduce downtime in the event that something goes wrong with the main server – but it’s still important to keep copies of critical information off-site with cloud backup solutions like Carbonite for ultimate protection against any potential disasters or loss of data due to unforeseen circumstances.

NAS vs File Server: What is the difference between Network Attached Storage Device and a Server?

Flexibility

NAS and servers both provide data storage. NAS offers relatively inexpensive, 24/7, and remote data availability, good expandability, redundant storage architecture, and automatic backups to other devices and the cloud.

Servers offer more flexibility in terms of configuration options such as scalability, added security features, and advanced management tools. Additionally, servers can be used for more than just storing data such as web hosting or running applications on them.

Scalability

NAS and servers both offer a way to store data. NAS devices can be standalone and do not require a server to operate, while servers often have multiple nodes that can be scaled up or down depending on the needs of the organization.

While both NAS devices and servers provide storage space for data, they differ in their scalability. While NAS devices are generally limited in terms of how many users can access them at once, servers allow for more flexibility when it comes to scaling up or down depending on demand.

In addition, while NAS may offer some limited redundancy features such as mirroring or RAID partitioning schemes that help protect against data loss in case of hardware failure, servers typically have more robust backup solutions built-in with multiple layers of redundancy that can help ensure continuous availability even if one component fails unexpectedly.

Hardware performance

Network-Attached Storage Devices and Servers both use processors to run software applications. However, NAS devices tend to have lower performance than servers due to hardware optimizations such as less powerful processors, fewer processing cores, and less RAM.

In contrast, servers typically have more powerful processors with more processing cores and more RAM than NAS devices. This allows them to run applications faster and with greater efficiency than NAS devices.

Reliability

NAS devices that have multiple bays can be built for redundancy, but not all of them support RAID. The backup and reliability of cloud servers are unparalleled, with most cloud service providers guaranteeing 99.9% uptime for storage and easy creation of backups for added security.

Local servers allow for easier configuration of RAID configurations due to their ability to add more drives easily, whereas cloud servers do not offer this option. Additionally, local servers provide better reliability since they have fewer points of failure than NAS devices or cloud services which rely on internet connections.

Portability and silence

The advantages of portability and silence for NAS devices and servers are that they do not occupy much space, are quiet, and do not generate noise. This is particularly important for home users and small offices who want to work in a comfortable, silent environment. However, some enterprise-class NAS devices in the rack-mount form factor may be noisy due to their larger size.

Power saving

NAS devices and file servers both use processors with different levels of performance. However, NAS devices benefit from hardware and software optimizations that allow them to use a CPU with lower performance than that of a file server.

This reduced power consumption results in NAS devices having longer battery life than file servers, which can be an important factor for businesses looking to reduce their operating costs.

Ease of use and maintenance

Both a Network Attached Storage Device (NAS) and a Server provide relatively inexpensive, 24/7, and remote data availability, good expandability, redundant storage architecture, automatic backups to other devices, and cloud flexibility.

The main difference between a NAS and a Server is in their size – while NAS can be tucked under a desk or kept in a storage room without any issues, servers need more space to operate effectively. Additionally, servers require more maintenance as they are more complex than NAS devices.

Price

Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices typically cost less than servers. A NAS device can range in price from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars, depending on the features and capacity of the device. In contrast, a server typically costs tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Backup capabilities

A Network Attached Storage (NAS) Device and a Server both offer relatively inexpensive, 24/7, and remote data availability, good expandability, redundant storage architecture, and automatic backups to other devices and the cloud.

A NAS Device is smaller in size which lets businesses save space compared to a Server which is larger in size. Additionally, NAS Devices provide basic customization for sharing files and data while Servers do not offer this feature.

What are the pros and cons of using Network Attached Storage vs. a Server?

Both NAS and file servers are able to facilitate the sharing of files across devices on a network. NAS devices are sold as simple solutions, while file servers offer more powerful hardware and greater functionality. A file server typically offers more customization, security configuration options, and granular access controls than a NAS device.

NAS devices are generally considered viable for small offices sharing files between two or three devices; however, scaling beyond that in the future means more purchases of drives or devices. In comparison, desktop-sized server towers do not take up much more space than a regular PC, and cloud storage takes up no physical space at all.

Moreso, security is generally better in a file server or cloud than when using NAS due to IT administrators having cybersecurity experts in charge of protecting those assets whereas NAS devices often limit what security measures can be deployed in their systems.

How does NAS compare to other storage network architectures?

Storage area networks

NAS and storage area networks (SAN) are both networked storage systems that pool storage capacity and share it with application servers over a high-speed network. Both systems use additional technologies such as RAID and data deduplication to optimize capacity and reliability.

The main difference between NAS and SAN is how they are perceived by users. To clients, NAS works as a file system while SAN works as an operating system. Additionally, NAS handles individual file requests but SAN manages requests for contiguous blocks of data. Finally, SAN can be more flexible for users but also cost more to set up and manage than a NAS system.

Direct-attached storage

NAS and direct-attached storage both provide storage for computers, servers, and other devices. NAS allows users to access data from multiple devices while direct-attached storage only allows access from the host device.

NAS is more scalable than direct-attached storage due to its ability to connect multiple devices together over a network. NAS offers more connectivity options than DAS since it does not have to be connected directly to a server.

Furthermore, NAS can share files across multiple devices while DAS cannot. Finally, NAS is easier to manage compared to DAS since it has fewer ports/connections that need managing over time as it grows in size.

Network Attached Storage vs Server: Which Is Right for You?

Both NAS and server provide network storage solutions. Both devices can be used to add accessible data storage to a home or business network. NAS devices typically offer more flexibility in terms of scalability, customization, cost, deployment, and ease of use compared to servers.

A server is much larger than a NAS device, so the server is not suitable for office applications that are limited in space. In contrast, NAS devices are portable and easy to move around, which makes them perfect for small businesses (SMBs) that need to be easily accessible.

When comparing NAS vs Server it is important to consider factors such as the amount of space available, outlay desired for securing your information, and expandability over time. Additionally, it is important to consider current needs as well as potential future needs when making this decision.

FAQs

What is the difference between a NAS and a server?

NAS and servers are both used to store files. NAS devices are mainly used by small companies, while larger organizations prefer servers. Servers provide higher data transfer speeds, support more users, and have unlimited storage capacity. NAS devices are portable and easy to move around, allowing them to be connected to a router or switch in SMBs.

NAS devices are not as technologically advanced as servers; they do not provide as high data transfer speeds nor do they support as many users. Additionally, servers are much larger than NAS devices making them unsuitable for office applications that may be limited in space.

Is Network Attached Storage a server?

Network-attached storage (NAS) is a data storage server that allows computers to share information. NAS devices are often pre-built and marketed as part of a set of hardware, though they can also be built from scratch.

Is NAS better than server?

NAS and servers both provide a great way to share files across devices on a network. NAS devices are portable and easy to move around, whereas servers are larger and not suitable for office applications that are limited in space.

NAS devices are better suited for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) due to their portability, while servers may not be as suitable due to their large size.

Is NAS storage a server?

Yes, NAS storage is a type of server. NAS devices are computers with a specific purpose and lots of storage space that can be connected remotely. They deliver files to users across a shared network and each user connects to the server in order to access these files.

NAS servers come in different form factors ranging from small desktop devices to enterprise-class servers that are rack-mounted in a server room.

Can NAS replace a file server?

No, NAS cannot replace a file server. File servers provide more flexibility and customization options than NAS devices, as they allow you to install a general-use operating system such as Linux or Windows and configure what you want.

Additionally, file servers provide higher performance than NAS devices due to the ability to install more powerful processors, high amounts of RAM, and multiple high-speed network adapters. Finally, file servers can serve a higher number of users working with shared files simultaneously compared to NAS devices which use processors of the ARM architecture which do not provide as much performance.

Are NAS drives good for servers?

Yes, NAS drives are good for servers. NAS devices are smaller than traditional servers and offer faster data access, easier configuration and management, and support for various business applications.

They can also provide a cost-effective solution for businesses looking to store large amounts of data without having to invest in a more powerful server. Carbonite server backup solutions allow businesses to protect their data from computer viruses, accidental deletion, natural disasters, and other potential threats that could lead to the loss of critical information.