How to choose network storage (and why you need it): review of Asustor AS3204T. Network storage. What is it and why is it needed? Creating Shares and Defining Rights
With the increase in megapixels of photo and video cameras, the problem of storing home media content increasingly arises for a large number of PC users. Of course, hard drives today are not that expensive, and their volume is measured in terabytes, but this is not enough.
There are several options for expanding the capacity of available disk space. If you have an ordinary “large” computer, then the easiest way is to install new hard drives into it. A more universal way is to use external drives. However, the most convenient (and expensive) would be to install a network drive on your home local network.
It will allow you to have constant access from any PC or player to the entire media library, store backup copies of documents and system partitions of computers, exchange files via the Internet without the participation of a PC, and much more. In addition, these devices are distinguished by their small size (compared to a PC) and low power consumption and noise. So if you don’t have a cottage with a couple of utility rooms, then a compact network drive can be a very good choice. By the way, there are even models for 2.5-inch hard drives.
Since our network already includes a router, we just need to select the desired NAS model and connect it to the network. For novice users who are not sure about the need for tens of terabytes, it is best to look at devices with one or two hard drives installed. Today they are most optimal for home use. And if there is not enough space, you can connect external USB or eSATA drives to them. If you already understand in advance that a couple of disks are definitely not enough, there are models with 4, 5, 6 or more disks. True, their cost is relatively high. Most devices are sold without hard drives, so you will need to purchase them separately. For reference, it is best to refer to manufacturers' compatibility lists. In this case, there is no point in chasing the fastest hard drives. It is better to select them based on low levels of energy consumption, heating and noise.
It is also worth mentioning the possibility of using a separate dedicated regular PC as a NAS. But in this material we will talk specifically about ready-made network drives.
Almost all devices are connected to the network via a gigabit connection, since the 10-12 MB/s that FastEthernet provides is already within the capabilities of the simplest models and today looks completely frivolous.
Linux is usually used as the embedded operating system, but there are also options with Windows Home Server. In the second case, the server is practically no different from a home PC, only communication with it occurs exclusively over the network. WHS is equipped with high-quality documentation and numerous “helpers”, so it won’t be difficult to figure it out. Most of the information later in this article does not apply to this option.
If you are afraid of communicating with Linux, then in fact there is nothing complicated in this case - the user has access to a convenient web interface through which you can configure all the necessary parameters and functions. But if you get to the command line, you can work with the device almost like a regular computer.
In addition to the operating system, it also makes sense to pay attention to the capabilities of the device. Currently, in addition to regular file storage, network drives provide media server services, file downloading, remote access, and others.
As for the hardware platform and performance, models on x86-compatible processors belong to the most productive (and expensive) segment; ARM processors with a frequency of 1000-1600 MHz are in the center, and low-end ARMs usually close the line. In reality, it is worth looking not at the platform itself, but at the results of its specific implementation, since much can be achieved by optimizing the software shell.
The efficiency of additional services depends on the amount of RAM, so we would recommend choosing devices with 256 MB or higher if you plan to use more than just network file access. Although for the first acquaintance 64 or 128 MB is quite enough. Just don't expect too much from them.
This time we are using the DS210+ model from one of the most popular manufacturers in this market segment - Synolog. This two-disk device, in addition to providing network file storage services, has many additional functions and can be very useful for both home use and offices.
It should be noted that usually all manufacturers have almost the same firmware capabilities for all models in the line and are updated simultaneously. For a more complete look at Synology devices, check out our recent review of the DS710+.
Assembly
Most often, network drives are sold without hard drives and the user needs to purchase and install them themselves. There is nothing complicated here - you open the case or take out the frames, screw the disks into place and assemble the structure.
The only note here is that it is advisable to first make sure that there is no information on the hard drives and that the partition table is empty. Otherwise, there may be errors when installing the firmware. Also, do not forget that all models of network drives necessarily require reformatting for their internal drives and simply installing existing drives and saving data will not work.
Firmware installation
After this, you usually need to go through the process of installing the firmware on the NAS. This is done using the bundled utility, in our case Synology Assistant. It is best to download both the firmware and the program from the manufacturer’s website. This will ensure that you are using the latest versions. But you can simply insert the supplied optical disc into the PC drive - all the necessary information is recorded on it. If the drive came with hard drives, then the firmware is already installed in it and this step can be skipped.
Network settings
In most cases, no special network settings are required on the drive. It receives addresses from the router via DHCP; the name suggested by the manufacturer is often suitable. But if necessary (for example, if you want to specify a new name or deny the drive access to the Internet by removing the default router address from the settings), you can use the “Control Panel - Network” page. You can also enable support for Jumbo Frames here.
Selecting disk configurations
After installing the firmware, you must select the hard drive configuration (in some cases, it is created simultaneously with the installation of the firmware). If there is more than one, then you can choose one of the RAID array options. Brief comparative characteristics of the main ones are shown in the table. In the volume formula, N is the number of disks, S is the volume of one of them (it is assumed that the disks are the same, in most cases this is necessary for optimal operation).
| Mode | Number of disks | Overall volume | pros | Minuses |
| Individual disks (Basic) | 1 | S | Maximum independence | No fault tolerance, no possibility of combining disks |
| JBOD | 2 or more | S×N | Single array of maximum volume | |
| RAID0 | 2 or more | S×N | Maximum speed | If one disk fails, all information is lost |
| RAID1 | 2 | S | Small usable volume | |
| RAID5 | 3 or more | S×(N−1) | Fault tolerance to single disk loss | Requires 3 or more disks, low write speed on weak systems |
Some manufacturers, in particular Synology, reviewed here, provide their own RAID implementations with a simplified configuration - when to expand the array you just need to add disks or change it to a more capacious one.
Most models allow you to create several arrays at once, and the only limitation is the number of disks. For example, if there are four of them, then you can make a RAID1 mirror out of two, and assemble the second pair into RAID0.
Please note that the firmware itself is installed on each of the disks, this allows you to increase fault tolerance and implement the ability to migrate and expand arrays without losing data by sequentially replacing disks in RAID1/RAID5.
In addition to the system partition, there is usually also a swap partition, so the total volume useful to the user is somewhat smaller. But a loss of 2-4 GB on 1 TB disks is not very significant.
To format hard drives, you must first go to the device’s web interface. This can be done from Synology Assistant or simply by opening the drive's address/name in the browser. After entering your name and password, you will have access to the settings.
Next we move on to setting up disk volumes. If you have one hard drive, then there is also only one option - “Basic”; more precisely, there is also “Synology Hybrid Raid”, which automatically selects the most convenient disk configuration and allows you to easily add new disks without losing information. For the two-disc model under consideration, it is somewhat redundant. So if you install two disks, then it is better to choose the classic JBOD - combining two disks into one large volume, RAID0 - a striped array to combine into one volume and increase performance, or RAID1 - two disks are mirror copies of each other, providing fault tolerance to the failure of one Of these, however, the useful volume in this case is equal to one disk. Sometimes it’s even better to simply make two independent “Basic” volumes, and for important data set up automatic backup from one disk to the second.
In the latest versions of Synology firmware, it has become possible to divide each disk into several parts and organize arrays from them. This significantly increases configuration flexibility. Since other manufacturers do not have this option (yet?), we will do everything the old fashioned way - one disk per volume.
At the last step, the device will offer to completely scan the array for bad blocks after creation. Despite the fact that modern hard drives are exceptionally reliable, it is better not to give up on this.
Creating Shares and Defining Rights
The next step after creating the disk volume will be programming system users. Of course, you can try to work exclusively under the administrator account, but this is not very convenient. The second extreme would be to allow guest access, so no verification will be performed at all. But we would still recommend using the “full version” - with names and access control - even for home and a simple network.
The most convenient option would be to use logins and passwords that completely match your Windows accounts. This will eliminate unnecessary requests when accessing network resources. It would also be useful to create users for example for media players, so that they could be given read-only rights to some resources to avoid the risk of data loss. And don't forget to change the NAS administrator password.
If you have many users, you can also use group organization to manage rights more easily. This is usually overkill for a home.
User rights are not granted entirely to the created disk volume, but to the shared folders located on it. So they also need to be programmed. In some cases, they automatically appear after creating a volume or turning on certain services (for example, a media player).
In our case, we will make a public folder and assign rights to it to our users.
Accessing the drive from a PC
After the operations described above, the main scenario of a network drive - reading and writing files over the network - can already be used.
Let's remember a few practical features of Windows networks. The main modern network protocol - TCP/IP - allows participants only to exchange packets. So, to implement various services on top of it, you need to use higher-level protocols. Without going into detail - "Network"/"Network Neighborhood" in Windows, CIFS, SMB, SAMBA - all this means the ability to share files between network devices and network printing. The implementation of this protocol is possible not only on Windows PCs, but also, for example, media players, televisions, satellite receivers, IP video cameras and, of course, other operating systems, such as Linux or Mac OS (a similar “standard/common” protocol for this OS is called AFP ). In most cases, these protocols only work on the local segment of your home network.
To access a resource, you need to know the name of the server and the name of the shared folder on it. In Windows Explorer, just write “\ServerFolder” in the address bar and you will be taken to the Folder folder located on the Server server. In our case, you need to write “\DiskStationpublic”. If your user name and password in Windows are recorded in the NAS and you have rights to this folder (or guest access is enabled), then you will see its contents, but if not, then the server will ask for a name and password. Please note that in a Windows network, different resources on the same server can only be accessed with one username and password at one time.
It is often convenient to have local "letters" always connected to access network resources. This is also easy to do - open “\DiskStation” in Explorer, click the left mouse button on the “public” icon and select “Connect”. If there is a checkmark in the “Restore at login” window, you will always have access to this shared folder at the selected letter (if the drive is, of course, turned on). By the way, you can also use Synology Assistant for this operation.
Advanced NAS Settings
We will briefly describe what other actions should be taken after the first launch of the network drive.
It may turn out that your home network uses a workgroup name other than the classic “WORKGROUP”. Then it is advisable to change it on the network drive as well. This is done in the Windows protocol settings - “Control Panel - Win/Mac/NFS”. If the network storage device is the only constantly working device, then you can activate the “Local Master Browser” function on it, which will increase the stability of the Windows network environment. You can always find a device by name or IP address, but the actual list of them in the “Network” window can sometimes be incomplete.
If you plan to provide access to the NAS from the Internet, then it is advisable to enable automatic locking when you try to guess the password. This will allow you not to be afraid of attacks from novice hackers.
It is also necessary to enable access to the web interface via the encrypted HTTPS protocol, and it is advisable to even indicate that its use is mandatory. This is done on the “Control Panel - DSM Settings” tab.
Please note that most modern browsers will most likely complain about the network storage when working with HTTPS. The fact is that the SSL certificate it uses is “self-signed”, that is, it is impossible to verify its origin through global certificate authorities. Typically, in this case, the browser will prompt you to include this server in the “trusted” list on its own. To work in the commercial segment, you can install a certificate officially received from a trusted authority into your network storage device.
Like a router, the NAS can send email messages if problems arise. This option can be used with many public email services that support SMTP.
Most devices have options for power management - for example, turning off hard drives in case of inactivity or even programming an operating schedule. The debate about which operating mode - constant or with shutdowns - is more “useful” for a hard drive still continues to this day. It is impossible to give definite advice here. We would recommend looking at the situation - if the drive is used more than a couple of times a day, it is better to leave the drives turned on. In reality, modern disks are very reliable and if they are not dropped while they are on, they last a very long time both in time and in on/off cycles.
By the way, to increase reliability, we highly recommend connecting the network drive (and other equipment too) through an uninterruptible power supply. You can select its model using the NAS compatibility lists, then when connecting devices via USB, the UPS will be able to report problems to the drive and, if necessary, safely turn it off.
Accessing files from the Internet
As an exercise in using a router and NAS together, we will describe one of the options for organizing full and secure access to your files from the Internet.
Synology has a very convenient option for this - the built-in file manager FileStation. It requires HTTPS to be enabled. The port can be left at the default 7001, but in the case when the router cannot work with different external and internal ports, it is better to change it to something less “usual”.
Synology's user rights controls also apply to additional services, so you need to make sure that FileStation is authorized for the right people.
The next two steps are carried out on the router. First, we assign a hard-bind MAC address of the NAS to one of the IP addresses in the LAN range on the DHCP server properties page. This will allow us to be sure that the IP address will not change after reboots.
Well, the final touch is the purpose of broadcasting the external port to FileStation. In our example, we selected external port 39456 and transferred it to internal 7001 to the address 192.168.1.40 of the network storage device.
This completes the setup. Now, from anywhere on the Internet, you can access your files through a browser by typing the link “https://myhost.homedns.org:39456” in the address bar (the address is taken as an example from the previous article) and specifying the user name and password
In the next article we will look at working with additional network storage services.
About DAS drives, which means it’s time to discuss full-fledged network storage - especially since NAS devices are currently not that expensive, and with their help it’s easy to organize a kind of home “cloud”. To do this, the equipment provides several hard drive cages and organizes its own hardware - a processor with RAM, a cooling system, a set of necessary interfaces and a separate power supply. Thus, you no longer need to store multimedia on your computer - you can distribute data to other devices from NAS storage. And no one canceled backup.
Naturally, such a device must support all known file systems, have convenient control, configuration and operation indication. Finally, simply look stylish to fit into both home and office environments. It would be nice to have several levels of RAID arrays and the ability to hot-swappable hard drives. But it’s better to purchase an HDD or SSD separately - this will reduce the cost of the equipment, and you can choose the optimal combination of performance and disk space. So, let's look at the budget NAS segment in order to refute the popular belief that network storage is expensive.
For only 6,134 rubles (all prices shown are current at the time of publication of this review) You can purchase a desktop NAS with two cages for 2.5- or 3.5-inch drives with a total capacity of up to 20 TB. At the same time, support for RAID array levels is declared: 0, 1, Basic, JBOD, that is, sequential distribution of disk space across disks, as well as support for a file system in the EXT3 format - a universal Linux solution for storing large amounts of data. Simply put, D-link DNS-320L is compatible with any operating system. Since this is an independent network storage that does not require a constant connection to the desktop, it has a gigahertz processor with 256 MB of RAM and 128 MB of flash memory.
Yes, this is not much, but for a simple NAS for the home it is more than enough, since gigabit Ethernet and USB 2.0 are provided here (though it is not clear why the manufacturer did not use third-generation USB). The device has all the necessary operating indicators, consumes 26 W, weighs only 630 g and is offered in a matte plastic and metal case. Disadvantages - 3-gigabit SATA and not the most productive cooler. However, petty quibbles are inappropriate - this is an excellent solution.
Synology has long been famous for its NAS, and here is one of the best options with the optimal combination of price and quality. True, it is intended for undemanding users for whom it is important that the storage fits on the desktop and looks presentable. Synology DS115j fully meets these criteria - it is very compact and at the same time has an effective cooling system and can accommodate one disk up to 10 TB. One 6-gigabit SATA is used as an interface, and in addition to EXT3 and EXT4, FAT32, HFS+ and NTFS are also supported. Given the presence of gigabit Ethernet and two USB 2.0, I would immediately place it next to the TV.
The hardware is not the most powerful, but the Marvell Armada 370 processor at 0.8 GHz with 256 DDR3 memory is quite enough for home tasks. The maximum power consumption is 36 W, and the noise level does not exceed 18.1 dBA - all thanks to the low-speed 60 mm CO fan. It will work out.
If you sacrifice appearance and pay about a thousand rubles extra, you can purchase a more productive solution. Thecus N2310 already accommodates two disks in 2.5- or 3.5-inch format with a capacity of up to 20 TB, supports hot swapping and is built on a mobile processor ARM APM 86491 with 512 MB of RAM and a frequency of 0.8 GHz. In addition to Ethernet (1 Gbit/s), there is USB of the third (progress!) and second generation, remote buttons for quick copying from external drives, and JBOD support.
Disadvantages - not the most impressive appearance, a meager set of operation indications and a budget CO cooler. But the NAS consumes only 36.2 W at maximum load, weighs 790 g and works with the EXT4 file system. At the same time, do not forget that in the latter the hard drives must be formatted so as not to be alarmed that the device does not see them. However, this is not such a problem at the moment - there are plenty of relevant utilities. Costs .
And this is a decision, as they say, from the manufacturer. Western Digital, with a complex index, offers a ready-made NAS, in the depths of which a 3-terabyte 3.5-inch drive is already hidden (if desired, it can be replaced with an HDD up to 10 TB). In general, a device for those who do not want to bother with modifications. The device is quite compact and designed in a high-tech style, which is suitable for both home and office. For the sake of compactness, we had to sacrifice the active cooling system, so obstructing the ventilation holes is highly not recommended.
Other benefits include 6-Gigabit SATA, a white steel casing, USB 3rd generation, and Gigabit Ethernet. This one is worth it. In this case, the lion's share of the cost falls on the hard drive.
ASUSTOR AS1002T is made in the corporate style of the line and will cost already. For this money you get 2-disk network storage up to 20 TB, support for HFS+ and NTFS, JBOD and Single disk, that is, a single local storage of two HDDs, and effective CO with a 70 mm cooler.
Under the hood of the device hides a gigahertz Marvell Armada 385 with 512 MB of RAM, which, by the way, can be expanded to a similar amount. The interfaces include Ethernet and two USB 3.0, that is, exchange and download of information at a high level. At the same time, the device can also be controlled via the web interface, that is, remotely.
Disadvantages - the need to install 2.5-inch drives in the equipment of 3.5-inch ones, a minimum of operation indication and a peculiar “square” design, more suitable for corporate style. The possibility of hot-swappable HDD also hints at office use.
Let's return to Synology. This solution significantly expands the functionality of its brother, as it already offers two baskets for both HDD formats with a connection via SATA, 6 Gb/s. At the same time, the NAS is built on a more powerful Marvell Armada 370 processor with 512 MB of RAM. The storage is made in the same style, but for obvious reasons it takes up more work space. There is support for Synology's proprietary Hybrid RAID technology, designed to simplify the deployment of storage volumes, and also works with HFS+ and NTFS. In short, setting up and optimizing the device will not be difficult even for an inexperienced user. There was also the possibility of hot-swapping disks. Interfaces - Ethernet and two USB 3.0.
Of particular note is the efficient cooling system with a 92mm cooler and its own power consumption of only 15 W. By the way, a total of 250 logical volumes can be created on a HDD, since the total storage capacity can reach 20 TB. Thus, Synology DS216j is created either for a very demanding user or for an office. Network storage is inexpensive for this level - .
If you want something interesting in design, then you should pay attention to QNAP TS-212P. The device is made in a compact case with rounded edges and an unusual front panel with a vertical display a la “thermometer”. Moreover, you don’t have to pay for beauty in performance and volume: there are two slots for 2.5- or 3.5-inch drives up to 20 TB and a Marvell 6282, 1.6 GHz processor with 512 MB of RAM and 16 MB of internal memory for buffering. It is also worth noting support for NTFS, two eSATA, two USB 3.0 and one USB second generation. Of course, there is also gigabit Ethernet.
The disadvantages are SATA (3 Gb/s) and work only with the zero and first level of RAID arrays. But there is a low-speed 70mm CO fan and pre-installed Linux. Power consumption is only 25 W. All in all, you get a completely self-contained NAS at a reasonable price.
The NAS looks brutal and does not tolerate compromises. At the same time, the case is quite compact, but can accommodate up to two HDDs of any format and a total capacity of 20 TB. Data reading speed is at the level of 200 MB/s, it is possible to hot-swappable disks. The time-tested Cortex A15 processor with a clock frequency of 1.4 GHz and 2 GB of RAM are responsible for performance, so there is no need to worry about the thoughtfulness of the network storage. In addition, there is one eSATA for connecting external HHDs, as many as three USB 3.0 and two Ethernet. You probably yourself understand what opportunities this opens up (yes, “local access” and remote control via different channels).
It’s a pity that the levels of RAID arrays here are only level zero and level one, and the device weighs about 2 kg, but no one forces you to install a NAS within walking distance. It has completely different tasks - just look at the presence of a door for quick access. This “serious comrade” is worth it.
ASUSTOR with the AS1004T index suggests installing four 3.5-inch drives with a total capacity of 40 TB and connecting them via 6 Gigabit SATA. True, the set of interfaces for such a device is meager - Ethernet and two USB 3.0, but under the hood hides a Marvell Armada 385, 1 GHz processor with 512 MB of RAM (it, like the younger model, can be expanded).
Other advantages include work with JBOD and Single disk, a 120 mm fan, all the necessary light indications and remote control via a web interface with support for installing FireFox, Chrome, Safari and Microsoft Edge browsers. Of course, the NAS works with all currently known operating systems. At the same time, it consumes only 24 W and, which is ridiculous for this level of devices.
A productive model for a reasonable price - you get a stylish 2-disk solution up to 20 TB with a powerful Intel Atom D2700 processor and 2 GB of RAM. Thus, NAS is optimal for both home and office. Also provided are one USB 3.0 and USB second generation, eSATA, which does not require additional power, two LAN, HDMI and VGA. Why not a multimedia or workstation with local and external connections?
Among the shortcomings - only mediocre CO, otherwise everything is excellent.
Thus, in order to buy an optimal and productive NAS, there is absolutely no need to overpay. In addition, you don’t have to worry that you are purchasing something “Chinese” - well-known brands are now interested in medium and low budgets.
For most of the 2000s, most computer-owning households had just one PC with one hard drive. If you needed to store data beyond the capacity of your hard drive, you would typically burn it to a CD. But it was slow, cumbersome and a waste of physical space.
Around this time, external drives gained popularity and became the norm. For a long time, external devices have been the choice for consumers with large amounts of data storage and transfer.
But as multi-computer, multi-user devices, where one person uses multiple computers, has become the new norm, external hard drives can no longer meet everyone's needs.
Network-attached or cloud storage is the future and there are four main types: cloud, NAS, DAS and SAN.
General information about cloud (network) storage (cloud)
Cloud storage is very fashionable these days. It meets many of the same needs as external drives and offers more features and convenience. In short, cloud storage is when you store your data on a cluster of remote servers (the "cloud") that are accessed over the Internet.
Instead of keeping an external drive connected to your system and taking up precious space, you simply create an account and download files when you need to. No recharging of USB ports. No additional energy use. And if your house burns down, your data will still exist on remote servers. Most cloud storage services offer automatic synchronization, which is even more convenient.
But cloud storage has its drawbacks. If your internet connection goes down, you lose access to your data. USB transfer speeds are much faster than most internet connections, so downloads and uploads to the cloud take longer compared to external drives. And the privacy of your data uploaded to the cloud is still a serious issue. Are cloud storage services looking into your data? Or even sell this data? We can't know for sure.
For many, the convenience outweighs the risk. That's why services like Dropbox, Google Drive, Yandex Drive and OneDrive are so popular right now. Free storage is plentiful, but if you need a lot of space, storage can cost anywhere from $2 to $100 per month.
Understanding NAS Storage
If you love your external drives and can't let them go, let me introduce you to Network Attached Storage (NAS). This is what you would get if you took an external drive and made it accessible to more than one device at a time. Sounds great, right?
NAS is almost the same as an external drive, only larger and more functional. And instead of connecting to one device at a time with a USB cable, it mounts on your local network. Ethernet is the most common and preferred method, but some can connect it over Wi-Fi.
Functionally speaking, you interact with the NAS in the same way as you would with an external drive. Once it's connected to your network, you can access it in much the same way (except that in File Explorer you'll go to Network instead). But the real benefit is that you can access it from any device!
And if you've set up your network for remote access, you can access the NAS from anywhere as long as you have an Internet connection, effectively leveraging cloud storage features without the privacy-related drawbacks.
NAS devices can cost anywhere from $150 to $600 depending on how much advanced functionality you want. Note that the NAS is just a "shell", so you'll have to buy the drives separately and insert them yourself.
Understanding SAN storage (Storage Area Network)
What happens when one NAS doesn't provide enough capacity? One option is to create a NAS, but in some cases this can be inconvenient since each one operates independently with separate IP addresses and separate settings.
Another option is to use a storage area network (SAN). NAS, SAN offloads data storage from desktops and server machines to dedicated storage devices. But while a NAS is an independent device, a SAN is a network of interconnected storage devices. They are accessed through the local network to which they are connected.
The biggest difference is that SANs are a lower tier than NAS. Data on a NAS is managed by the NAS itself and is thus represented as “files,” whereas data on a SAN is raw and accessible as “blocks.” Practically speaking, NASES appear as "file servers" and SANs appear as "disk" or "disks". And instead of using TCP/IP, SANs use other network protocols such as Fiber Channel and iSCSI.
Modern SAN storage can store many terabytes of data on a device and is unlikely to be needed by the average home user. Just add a second or third drive to the NAS. For this reason, as well as the need to connect to protocols other than TCP/IP, SANs are primarily used by enterprises, data centers, and other large organizations.
Understanding DAS Storage
Now we are back to where we started. If you want to get rid of all the above network storage options, the only alternative is Direct-attached storage (DAS). As the name implies, a DAS needs to be physically connected to any device that wants to access its data.
You use DASES every day. All examples of DAS are hard drives, CD/DVD drives, flash drives, and external drives. In fact, the term DAS was created after the advent of NAS and SAN to differentiate between network-attached storage and non-networked storage.
These days, DAS increasingly refers to a special subset of business-grade clusters that are not connected to a network. For example, Lenovo E1012 DAS is suitable for 12 drives. Think of them as massive external drives. No wonder they were nicknamed JBOD ("just a bunch of disks").
But DAS options exist at the consumer level as well. Noontec-TerraMaster D5-300 DAS is suitable for five storage devices and connects to USB Type-C. Just don't expect it to deliver the data transfer speeds of business-class DASs, which use SAS connectors instead of USB.
Which type of network storage is right for you?
For average home users, only two of these options are viable: cloud storage and NAS storage.
While NAS storage is objectively superior, it is better suited for users familiar with the technology. Setup is a bit more involved than installing a plugin or game, and it requires regular care and maintenance if you want it to last for a while. It is also cheaper in the long run compared to paid cloud storage services.
But cloud storage is easier. Just install the necessary software and you can upload your files to the cloud. There's no setup, no maintenance, and unless you're going to store terabytes of data there, no fees. If you're willing to risk your privacy, and if you don't mind being out of reach when your internet is down, then cloud storage can be a great option.
Where do you store your data? Have you used a NAS before? Or are you still relying on external drives and/or the cloud? Share with us in the comments below!
Ilya 15193
Network data storage is a system for storing large volumes of information with independent software, storage media (drives) and communication means, designed as a separate block. Network storage is an element of a local network at home or office, designed for constant access to confidential (personal or business) information.
The software is used to organize the recording, storage and distribution of information. The program includes the following programs:
internal operating system (GAS, NAS);
data protection (antivirus);
data exchange (protocols such as Fiber Channel and/or encryption);
organizing RAID arrays to increase system reliability;
other service programs.
Storage devices are large-capacity hard drives (drives) (3…5 pcs.), placed in one block. The storage operating system does not allow creating logical disks, i.e. The system installed on one of the hard drives turns off this drive from the list of storage drives. The solution to the problem is to use a bootable flash card or another solid-state drive (SSD-class drives).
Communication means determine the way the storage communicates with the user. Communication options:
Wired - LAN (WAN) connection via TCP/IP protocol. File requests are processed by the internal processor to the NAS command level. Allows a distance of up to 10 km from the user.
Wireless network storage WiFi is built using standard technologies, but is limited by the power of transceiver devices and is overloaded with information security measures during transmission.
The scope of application is practically unlimited - from storing multimedia files to collecting information from controllers of continuous process devices or images from CCTV cameras. The important thing is that information enters the storage without going through user processors. This is achieved by processing it by an internal processor.
Device selection
Like all computer equipment, this sector of the market does not stand still. Offers and opportunities will drive any inexperienced user crazy. First of all you need:
1. Determine the need for such a device, based on the assigned tasks or needs;
2. Determine the required device options based on the number and characteristics of connected users;
3.Set the technical architecture of the system (number and volume of disks, depending on the type of information and its significance);
4.Set a price range;
5. Provide for the possibility of expanding the system or upgrading it.
Undoubtedly, network storage (in the basic configuration: disk drive, 2..3 USB ports, network port) is a serious and prestigious thing. But a simple example shows how the price changes depending on the options, all other things being equal, in the lowest price range. WD My Book Live 2 TB (NAS): type - external hard drive 2 TB; interface - Ethernet, DLNA; price - 5950 rub. Iomega StorCenter ix2-200 2 TB (NAS): type - network storage; interface -Ethernet, DLNA, print server, USB; price 8490 rub. Adding two options increases the cost by 30%, and this is a reason for analysis.
Advantages and alternative
Network-attached storage has a number of advantages. The most important of them is unloading the hardware capacity of the user's computer from routine operations: reading and writing large amounts of information, managing the progress and monitoring of network operations on the Internet or local networks, recording and playing multimedia information.
The development of high-speed data transmission systems over Internet networks and the creation of high-capacity information storage systems has led to the emergence of specialized storage facilities - file hosting. On a paid basis, they provide services for secure storage of information, services for structuring and retrieving information. Individual hosting companies act as intermediaries in the sale/purchase of information belonging to the user, if there is demand. Hosting can be used to store information that is not vital or to drown the most important information in a sea of data, leaving the key for yourself.
Of course, both directions will receive further development, each in its own market segment.
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Part One: Cold Iron
It can be stewed and chopped into broth,
And it's good to serve with vegetables.
Lewis Carroll, The Hunting of the Snark
Anyone who is able to assemble a personal computer and install Windows can, if desired, create a fairly advanced NAS from x86-compatible hardware and free software builds based on *nix. At the same time, roughly speaking, the number of installed disks affects the cost and complexity of the project only by the cost of the disks. This allows you to seriously save money compared to buying a ready-made NAS with 4 or more disks, but it is hardly profitable if a NAS with 1-2 disks satisfies your needs. It is impossible to say which option is better. Everyone has their own preferences. Some people cook well at home, while others prefer to dine in a restaurant. Do you enjoy tinkering with computer software and hardware? Then this text may be useful. Do you need a storage service on its own? Choose between cloud storage and a ready-made NAS out of the box.
N. B. This article is not about the hardware model or the version of the software product. She talks about the concept of creating a NAS with your own hands and suggests considering other options for solving the problem, besides buying a ready-made device. The topic is long, with nearly a thousand pages of discussion. The people there are polite and responsive. This is a hint that the article does not pretend to be complete, academic or the ultimate truth.
What kind of NAS is this?
According to Wikipedia, NAS (Network Attached Storage) - network storage system, network storage. It is a computer connected to a network and designed to provide data storage services to other devices. The operating system and NAS module programs provide operation of the data storage and file system, access to files, and control over system functions. The device is not designed to perform normal computing tasks, although running other programs on it may be technically possible. Typically, NAS devices do not have a screen or keyboard, but are managed and configured over the network, often using a browser.
The definition is not ideal, but quite working. NAS is also used in business, but they have their own requirements and features. We will be interested in home use of NAS.
People usually come to the idea of assembling a NAS with their own hands in two ways, and often in both ways at once. When you have one computer at home, you don't need a NAS. Gradually other network devices appear. Laptops, smartphones, tablets. And especially - network HD media players, all sorts of Dune, Popcorn, WD TV and the like. It is with the acquisition of a network media player that a person often begins to accumulate terabytes of information. It is first stored on removable hard drives that are connected to the media player and/or added to the main computer. Soon there will be too many disks for convenient use, and a computer quietly buzzing around the clock, at the same time downloading something from the Internet, will begin to irritate, if not you, then your better half. An idea arises to collect this bunch of disks in a separate box, put it somewhere in a corner and instruct it to distribute content to all network devices and download torrents. Congratulations, you've taken the first route to NAS. On the way, we definitely took a look at the finished NAS, out of the box. But the price!..
The second way is through hardware upgrades. As a result, less than a cubic meter of components accumulate, which are difficult to sell and there is no one to give as a gift. The Plyushkin within us finds a useful use for them in the idea of building a NAS. And at the same time satisfy your craving to rummage through the guts of the computer. It’s not for nothing that one cheerful American wrote that working with a computer is the only legal way today to push around someone who is smarter than you.
Of course, there are other ways. For example, you are a keen photographer and need reliable storage of long-term archives. Or a loving parent filming every step of their baby. Etc. But rarely do such scenarios lead to assembling a NAS with your own hands. Much more often - to buy ready-made out of the box. The needs of such users are confidently met by 1-2 disk models of ready-made NAS. It is difficult, if not impossible, for a neophyte amateur to assemble something similar in size, noise and price to 1-2 disk models.
In defense of ready-made NAS, it is worth noting that they provide many features and functions out of the box, requiring minimal installation/configuration/tuning. So, in fact, their cost must include the work of programmers, technical support, etc.
The situation changes dramatically if 1-2 disks are not enough, but there is a need for 4 or more. Manufacturers' marketers set a price level for them, which plunges a person familiar with the computer price tag into a state of frustration (although they pronounce much more popular words). And the person begins to choose a hardware configuration, to which we move on. Although he should have started with software, he can’t go against nature.
The hardware depends on the software used. Software - depending on the assigned tasks. And the correct formulation of the problem has never been a strong point of the home handyman. So he starts with hardware. If we came to building a NAS with a bag of parts left over from upgrades, then the good news is that they will fit, even if not optimally. Without even looking.
Broomed around the barn
In order to comfortably watch FullHD video over the network, including BD disk images, we will need at least:
- 1-2 gigabytes of RAM if ZFS is not used and 4-8, more is possible if ZFS is used. (About ZFS - later, Google will help the impatient.) But even on a rarity with 256 MB you can collect something useful;
- x86-compatible processor, ideally (and for ZFS) - 64-bit, but 32-bit is suitable for most options. That is, any x86 processor except those that are completely museum-quality. It would be preferable to have less heat, but that’s what it is;
- wired Ethernet port, preferably gigabit - although 100 megabits is enough for viewing BD images over the network. Connecting a NAS over Wi-Fi is a controversial idea (but if you build it yourself, you have much more freedom in choosing wireless controllers);
- drives and SATA ports. For NAS there is no difference between SATA-2 (3 Gbit/s) and SATA-3 (6 Gbit/s). Not every drive is faster than the ancient SATA-1, so such ports can be used. But IDE drives, by modern standards, are slow, low-capacity, hot and noisy. If there are not enough SATA ports, you can use controllers. But if (when) you soon decide to move to new hardware, then the SATA controllers purchased as crutches for an outdated motherboard will lie idle. I know from myself, I have two lying around. And be careful with disks larger than 2 TB. Many older controllers are not compatible with them. And among the SATA-1 controllers, there are also those that do not work with disks larger than a terabyte - however, this is already ancient and rare;
- Of course, the case where it will all fit and the power supply that will pull it. There are subtleties with the power supply, it makes sense to look at a new one, see below.
Most likely, the hardware left over from the upgrades will satisfy these requirements. And if it doesn’t make much noise (or there is somewhere to clean it), then you’re generally lucky. You can start experimenting.
Custom tailoring
If you are assembling a NAS from specially purchased components, then you should first decide on your wishes. In most cases (but it is impossible to grasp the immensity) requests are divided into three groups, conventionally “quiet-compact”, “effective-extensible” and “server-so-server”. Let me clarify that there is no clearly correct option. After all, the user himself weighs wishes, costs and his capabilities. But the wrong one is possible. When the result does not satisfy the requirements explicitly or implicitly specified during the design. For example, the spouse will say that the box is, of course, big. But it howls like an airplane, and she doesn’t agree to live in the same apartment. Or the system assembled under passive conditions does not withstand the test in the summer. Or the video simply shuts down when viewed online. Therefore, it is better to consider your wishes on the shore. Especially the implicit ones.
Important note. We're talking about a NAS, not an HTPC (Home Theater PC), that is, not a computer that shows movies with sound on a large screen connected to its video output. In principle, no one forbids you to make HTPC, including with many hard drives, although the requirements for HTPC and NAS, as well as the software and hardware used for them, are very different. HTPC is a different topic.
Quietly compact
This set of requirements is influenced by off-the-shelf NAS. I want something compact and quiet, but one that can fit 4 disks (often 6, sometimes more). Such requirements usually lead to the choice of a Mini-ITX motherboard with a soldered Atom-like processor housed in a compact case. Examples are below.
There is a very good preconfigured solution - HP Proliant Microserver (). Compact, reasonable in price (from 12,000 at the moment), 4 hard drives, the fifth can be inserted instead of ODD, which is unnecessary in the NAS. And with the help of a small tambourine, make the port intended for ODD SATA work normally. Disadvantages - the processor is far from powerful, but for many scenarios it is sufficient. If you are satisfied with the microserver, let's go to the chapter about software.
HP Proliant Microserver is a high-quality and inexpensive candidate for the role of home NAS
If not, first select a case for the desired number of disks (whether or not a disk is needed for the system depends on the OS. We will discuss it in the chapter about software). Here, in the battle of show-off aesthetic feelings with greed and the desire for effective costs, the first test of the strength of the “quiet-compact” concept takes place. Beautiful compact cases are not cheap. If victory lies with the toad's desire for efficiency, let's go to the chapter on efficiency and extensibility. We go there if the selected case allows the installation of a microATX motherboard. If aesthetics win, we select a Mini-ITX (Mini-DTX) motherboard. The first requirement is a maximum of SATA ports (including eSATA). In principle, desktop versions with 6 SATA ports were produced. But whether it will be possible to find it here and now is the question. If there are not enough ports, PCIe SATA controllers with 2 and even 4 ports are quite affordable. Naturally, they require a PCIe slot. Considering that it is the only one in Mini-ITX, expandability ends there.
All examples are from real life, often with modifications and additional photos - see FAQ in the profile thread, section 3.1
| by axel77 | from half_moon_bay | by padavan | |
| Frame | Chenbro ES34069 | Lian Li PC-Q25 | Lian-Li PC-Q08 |
| power unit | 180 W included | Corsair, PSU-500CXV2EU, 500 W | Enermax 380 W (82+) |
| Motherboard | Zotac NM10-DTX WiFi | Asus E35M-I* | Asus P8H67-I** |
| CPU | integrated Intel Atom D510 | integrated AMD E-350 | Intel Pentium G840 |
| RAM | Kingston 2x2 GB | Corsair XMS3 2x8 GB | 2x4 GB DDR3-1333 |
| Hard drives for data | 4×Samsung HD204UI | 7×3.5″ | 6×3.5″ + hotswap for 3.5″ HDD in 5.25″ bay |
| System storage | 2.5″ Toshiba 500 GB | USB flash drive | 2.5″ HDD |
| operating system | FreeBSD | FreeNAS 8.x | OMV |
| Additionally | network Intel WG82574L*** | ST-Lab 370 4xSATA | PCIe 2xSATA-II |
| Price estimate**** | RUB 14,950 | RUB 15,600 | RUB 14,000 |
* Nowadays motherboards with E-350 have become rare, they have been replaced by versions with E-450. SATA ports - fewer;
** Not on sale, but see, for example, ASUS P8H77-I;
*** the author added a network through a homemade raiser, but this is rather personal perfectionism;
**** Prices are estimates at the request of the editors using modern Yandex Market, if not available - Price.ru, if not available - analogues. This is a rough estimate, since some models are no longer on sale and the prices found are not necessarily current. The price does not take into account data disks; a used system HDD, if available, was counted as 1000 rubles.
There are subtleties about “quietly”. The first impulse is “complete passive”. However, in most cases the argument is accepted that 4-6 drives will produce more noise than a good 120mm fan at low speed. In any case, you need to understand that you have to pay for everything and a compact case, all other things being equal, will be noisier than a more spacious standard case with large fans.
The obvious feature of a soldered processor is performance. If this is not enough, the vast majority abandon the Mini-ITX format. But, for the sake of completeness, it must be said that this is not necessary, cf. configuration from maestro padavan.
The assembly from Padavan is, as you can see, extremely compact
In December last year, the Intel Atom S1200 (Centerton) for server purposes was announced. When they go on sale, they may be an interesting option for a home NAS. Support for ECC memory, Intel Virtualization (VT-x), 8 PCI-E lanes, 8 GB of memory - this is enough for most options.
Efficiently extensible
A significant part of NAS builders - some right away, some faced with the limitations of options on Atom-like processors - decide to assemble a configuration that allows for serious expansion. In terms of processor, memory, but above all - in terms of the number of disks. As already mentioned, ready-made NAS even with 4 disks are not cheap, but with 8-10 they are already prohibitively expensive for the home. At the same time, it is not difficult to choose a sufficiently spacious housing. For example, in my case, left over from the upgrade of the Craftway computer (they didn’t save on case hardware back then), there are now 7 units living in it. 3.5″ drives and you can install 3 more without any problems. When choosing a case for a really large number of drives, you should look towards models with many 5.25″ slots, in which you can then install baskets with airflow, using 5.25″ slots for four 3.5″ drives. See the example in the Costs chapter.
Since the NAS operates 24/7, I would like an energy-efficient processor (in Moscow, a watt per year costs 35 rubles). Intel Sandy Bridge and Ivy Bridge seriously reduce power consumption when idle, but the NAS is extremely lightly loaded the lion's share of the time. Therefore, the daily power consumption of such a NAS may be significantly lower than that of the Atom version, which does not know how to reduce consumption when idle. Which processor model to choose depends on whether you need to transcode video in real time.
Many modern TVs have DLNA functionality, which allows you to receive video over a local network. The problem is that they only understand some encoding options. And often they are not at all the ones used by the rips and remixes found on the Internet. The problem can be solved in several ways. (1) Look for movies in a format that matches your TV. It's the tail that wags the dog. (2) Recode the movie on the computer to suit the TV's requests. This is a waste of time and is only possible for a self-made video. (3) Load the NAS with real-time transcoding and (4) Buy a media player, that is, a small box that receives video as files, including via the network with the NAS, and supplies the TV with the receiver with an audio-video signal, usually via HDMI. If you chose option (3), then you need to study the specifications of the TV and look in the Core i7 area. Plus, due to limitations in DLNA in general, and in implementing this marketing idea on your TV in particular, it will not be possible to achieve complete omnivorousness. Option (4) at the current price level turns out to be not only simpler and more functional, but also cheaper. While the NAS processor is suitable for virtually any junior Pentium or Celeron 2nd or 3rd generation Core. You can take the i3, fortunately, compared to the price of the disks, the difference will be negligible. Choose according to your taste. For quick reference or detailed final comparison of candidate models, you can use the processor testing section on iXBT. I took an Intel Pentium G2120 as the youngest Ivy Bridge at that time. Junior Sandy Bridges are cheap and more than sufficient.
The AMD processors available at the time of writing are not impressive compared to Intel - although AMD is much more generous in providing its processors with ECC memory support, and perhaps the company will soon have something competitive, for example the Opteron 3250 with a stated price of $99.
ASUS P8H77-M Pro motherboard: 7 SATA, up to 32 GB RAM
Motherboard. I took the ASUS P8H77-M Pro for the following reasons:
- LGA1155, we get built-in video automatically due to the processor, it will only be needed at the installation stage;
- maximum number of SATA ports, no matter 3 or 6 Gbit/s (7 SATA + eSATA);
- 4 memory slots are better, but 2 are enough (4, up to 32 GB);
- integrated 1000BaseTX, considered better from Intel. But taking into account the presence of a processor with a reserve of computing power, Realtek will do just fine (Realtek 8111F);
- PCIe slots for future installation of SATA controllers and network cards (x16, x4 in x16 slot, 2 x 1);
- Form factor - microATX.
The cooler is selected according to taste, memory - according to the requirements of the selected OS. Here the range is possible from gigabytes to 32.
The power supply is included in a separate chapter.
Examples of the described option:
| by ZanZag | by shale | |
| Frame | Lian Li PC-V354R | InWin BP659 |
| power unit | Chieftec BPS-550C 550 W | 200 W included |
| Motherboard | ASUS P8H67-M EVO(B3) | ECS H61H2-I2 |
| CPU | Intel Pentium G860 | Intel Celeron G530 |
| RAM | 4x4 GB DDR3 PC3-1066 | Kingston 2x2 GB |
| Hard drives for data | 6×Hitachi HDS5C3030ALA630 | 3×Seagate ST3000DM001 |
| System storage | CF 4 GB via CF-IDE adapter | 40 GB SSD |
| operating system | nas4free 9.x | OMV |
| Additionally | cooler Cooler Master DP6-8E5SB-PL-GP, add. fans 2×Zalman FDB-1 and Arctic Cooling F9 PWM | |
| Price estimate | RUB 18,200 | 7300 rub. |
Server-so-server
There is a “premium” category of NAS builders who, for objective or subjective reasons, build NAS from serious and expensive server components. Enthusiasts are experimenting with 10-gigabit network solutions. Remember that server configurations are often not quite compatible with residential premises in terms of size and noise. The ability to use ECC memory is the most obvious advantage of the approach. The ZFS file system used in this segment of home NAS construction is memory intensive. In this case, a memory failure can lead to data corruption that goes unnoticed. ECC memory solves the problem, but its use in the Intel version requires server processors (there are interesting exceptions, for example the Pentium G2120) and motherboards.
Virtualization is often used and several guest OS solve problems, each with their own. A common option is when a SATA controller is forwarded into a virtual machine that performs the storage function (Solaris or FreeBSD with zfs). From this VM, disk capacity is exported via NFS or iSCSI to the hypervisor and other VMs. I will refrain from further explanation of what I myself am not very well versed in and will give real examples.
Assembly from TPAKTOP, outside and inside views
| by fatfree | by axel77 | from TPAKTOP | |
| Frame | Fractal Design Define Mini | Supermicro CSE-SC846E26-R1200B | |
| power unit | Seasonic X560 | ||
| Motherboard | Supermicro X9SCL-F | Supermicro X9SCM-F | Supermicro X9SCM-F |
| CPU | Intel Xeon E3-1230 | Intel Xeon E3-1230 | Intel Xeon E3-1220 |
| RAM | 4×Kingston KVR1333D3E9S/8G | 4×Kingston KVR1333D3E9S/4G | 4×Kingston KVR1333D3E9S/4G |
| Hard drives for data | 5×WD20EFRX | in the process of accumulation | 12xST31000524AS in two 6xRaidZ2 (main pool), 2xST32000542AS in a mirror (backup pool), 4xST3250318AS in a stripe (torrent pool) |
| System storage | Intel SSD 520 180 GB | 2.5″ by 320 GB | TS64GSSD25S-M |
| operating system | ESXi 5.1.0 + Nexenta CE + Ubuntu Server 12.04 + Windows 8 | FreeBSD | FreeBSD |
| Additionally | HBA IBM ServeRAID M1015, Noctua NH-L12 cooler | 2×HBA IBM ServerRAID M1015 | 2×HBA IBM ServeRAID M1015, Intel Gigabit ET Dual Port Server Adapter |
SATA/SAS controllers
So if you can’t wait, you can start. And in the second part we will discuss the software in more detail.
I would like to express my gratitude to all participants in the profile thread on the forum.site, including comrades axel77, half_moon_bay, padavan, ZanZag, shale, whose configurations were used in the article; comrades Sergei V. Sh, TPAKTOP, iZEN and RU_Taurus for many useful comments.
Special thanks to the developers of free software: Olivier Cochard-Labbé, Daisuke Aoyama, Michael Zoon, Volker Theile and many others. They made the very existence of the DIY NAS theme possible.