If you’re looking for an efficient way to store and access your data, a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device might be the solution for you. A NAS device is essentially a storage server that can be accessed by multiple devices over a network. They come in different types and storage capacities, with varying costs. In this post, we’ll explore the different types of NAS devices available, and their associated costs.
Personal NAS devices
Personal NAS devices, as the name suggests, are designed for personal use, and for smaller storage needs. They’re usually quite compact, and can store anywhere from 1 TB to 4 TB of data. These devices usually connect to the internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, and come with a simple web interface for easy management. The costs for these types of network storage solutions can range anywhere from $100 to $500 depending on the storage capacity and features.
Small Business NAS devices
For small businesses that require more storage space than what personal NAS devices offer, small business NAS devices are a great option. These devices can store anywhere from 4 TB to 40 TB of data, and come with features such as RAID support, dual Ethernet ports and backup options. Small business NAS devices can cost between $500 and $1,000 for lower capacity models, with higher capacity models costing more.
DIY NAS devices
If you’re tech-savvy and want to save some money, building a DIY NAS device might be an option. DIY NAS devices are built using off-the-shelf hardware components such as old PCs, hard drives, and network cards.The cost of building a DIY NAS device depends on the hardware components used, but it can be substantially cheaper than buying a pre-built NAS device.
Cloud-based NAS devices
Cloud-based NAS devices are a newer type of NAS device that stores your data in the cloud. This means that your data is stored remotely, and you can access it from anywhere with an internet connection. Cloud-based NAS devices are usually subscription-based, with costs ranging from a few dollars a month to hundreds of dollars a month depending on the storage capacity required.
Enterprise NAS devices
Enterprise NAS devices are designed for larger businesses with complex storage requirements. They can handle large amounts of data, with storage capacities ranging from 40 TB to 1 petabyte or more. Enterprise NAS devices also come with advanced features such as high-speed connectivity options, extensive backup and recovery options, and multiple security protocols. The cost of enterprise NAS devices can range anywhere from $5,000 to hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on the storage capacity required, and the features offered.
Conclusion
In conclusion, NAS devices come in different types and storage capacities, with varying costs. Personal NAS devices are designed for personal use and have lower storage capacity, while small business and enterprise NAS devices are designed for larger storage usage by businesses. DIY NAS devices can be built using old hardware components and free software, while cloud-based NAS devices store your data remotely in the cloud. When choosing a NAS device, it's important to consider your storage requirements, budget, and future expansion plans.
Exploring the different types of NAS devices available and their associated costs