Advantages of Network Attached Storage.
by SoftwareGuru
posted 23rd February 2009
Many parents and home users use a computer.
They use the internet, creates files and store them.
Some files are stored on the computer itself, other files could be saved on a USB pen or external hard drive.
These are concepts that most people are familiar and comfortable with through experience.
The next step is to learn about saving files or using storage that is directly connected to the internet as opposed to saving files on your PC...
...in case of hardware failure!
Ease of use
Network Attached Storage devices (or NAS as they are often referred to) are growing in popularity.
In its simplest form, it is a hard drive that connects to your network via ethernet, rather than locally to your computer via USB.
Being connected to your network means that you can make the content accessible to any other computer, laptop or mobile device.
This even extends to wireless use, whereby if your NAS is attached to a wireless router, then the content can also be accessed wirelessly.
It is very straightforward and nowhere near as complicated as the term "home server" might suggest.
Low Cost Network Attached Storage
NAS devices have traditionally been complex enterprise or expensive, enthusiast devices.
We associate them with office IT issues and not with day-to-day home use.
However, both home user behaviour and hardware offerings have changed significantly in the last 18 months.
Broadband and cheaper storage options have turned the NAS manufacturers' attentions to bundling software and services to provide more simplicity and enhanced functionality.
Digital memories & media stored
Families that use a digital camera, mp3s, movie downloads, or simply wish to back up and protect all their files can gain tremendous peace of mind with an easy-to-use home server.
For example, a quick scan of the customer reviews on this product page will give you an idea of how useful it can be to have your data streamed from one source to your laptop, xbox360 or friend's computer.
You can also check out a more detailed insight into how easy it is to set up your own Network Attached Storage solution.
Anyone who's ever bought an external hard drive should seriously consider the benefits of a NAS device.
From regular PC backups, streaming movies in your living room to accessing your files while on the move, your digital lifestyle can be made so much easier.
Lastly, a reminder that while you're considering all of this, the Business and Ultimate versions of Vista have the Backup and Restore Center that can be used to protect yourself against hardware failure and other problems.
Even critics agree it's considerably better than its XP equivalent.
When was the last time you backed up your data?
For advice on software licensing for schools and charities, why not give one of our friendly SAM UK representatives a call?
Phone now on 020 7193 5335.
