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Network-attached storage (NAS) disks are devices that are used to store and share data across a network. These disks are designed to be connected directly to a network router or switch, allowing multiple users to access the stored data simultaneously.
NAS disks come in a variety of sizes and configurations, ranging from small single-drive units to large multi-drive arrays. They can also vary in the types of drives they use, such as traditional spinning hard drives or solid-state drives (SSDs).
Why are NAS devices important?
Enterprise and small businesses in many industries choose NAS solutions because they offer effective, scalable, and low-cost storage. Compared to other servers, NAS file servers give faster data access and are easier to configure and manage. They can support various business applications, including private email systems, accounting databases, payroll, video recording and editing, data logging, and business analytics.
Some benefits of NAS include:
Private cloud deployment for organizations
A private cloud is a cloud that hosts resources from an organization’s own data center. It can be based on internal hardware resources or separate infrastructure provided by a third party. You can use NAS appliances to deploy private cloud storage in your organization.
Flexible local storage solutions for small businesses
NAS systems can be customized based on the size and requirements of the organization. Both low-cost, less storage, and more expensive high-end devices are available in the market.
How does NAS work?
NAS systems combine hardware and software with protocols (or rules) to support file sharing over the network. By following these protocols, any computer can seamlessly access files from the NAS device as if the files were stored on the computer itself.
Communication protocols
Networks can run multiple data transfer protocols, but most networks have internet protocol (IP) and transmission control protocol (TCP). IP is the part that obtains the address to send file data. After that, TCP delivers the data by combining it into packets and sending the packets through the network.
File formatting protocols
Machines in a computer network can have different underlying operating systems, like Windows, Linux, or Unix. All of them want to access the NAS file storage in their native file format. Therefore, NAS file systems format the data before sending it to the network. The formatting protocols for file serving include:
Network File Systems (NFS)
Linux and UNIX systems use this protocol. NFS works on any hardware, OS, or network architecture.
Server Message Blocks (SMB)
Microsoft Windows machines use this protocol.
Apple Filing Protocol (AFP)
This is a proprietary protocol for Apple devices running macOS.