What is Network Attached Storage?

Network Attached Storage (known as NAS), is a type of storage system that enables individuals and organisations to quickly and easily store and access large volumes of information very cost effectively.

NAS appliances are small, dedicated servers or devices that are attached to an existing computer network. The aim is to improve performance, reliability and efficiency of the network and these devices are specifically for designed for this purpose. The information that is stored on the NAS can be shared or accessed by anyone with the authority to do so.

The future of network attached storage

Network attached storage appliances are continually being developed to allow for more functionality, faster speeds and flexibility. While many people don't advocate using NAS in highly confidential situations where the sharing of data could become a problem, it appears that these disadvantages are beginning to be resolved.

NAS is cost effective and easy to install and as a result, the market for NAS continues to grow.

Why network attached storage?

Most organisations require storage because they need to retain documents, files and other types of information that their users can access from the computer network.

Because network attached storage appliances are self contained, intelligent devices, they are designed to separate storage requirements from the organisations' network and application servers. As a result, performance is increased and people are able to access information faster and more easily. This enables them to become more efficient and productive.

Alternatives to network attached storage

The main alternative to NAS is storage area networks (SAN). At first glance, the differences appear to be few but it is imperative that you have a complete understanding of both before making a decision to buy either.

In very simplistic terms, a NAS is less expensive than a SAN.

Benefits of network attached storage over storage area network:

• NAS can be easily and inexpensively installed.
• NAS is cheaper than SAN.
• NAS requires less maintenance than SAN.
• NAS are easy to set up and use, however, an administrator is required for a SAN and requires special training in order to maintain and configure the implemented SANs.

There are large a number of benefits why a storage area network or network attached storage is better suited according to an organisation's requirements, size and technical needs.

Both SANs and NAS have their merits and some would argue that their NAS system is extremely fast and equally secure as a SAN. Both are extremely good solutions but it is advisable to speak to a couple of credible suppliers that have expertise of both, and read more about the subject.

Benefits of network attached storage

What can I expect to gain by implementing a network attached storage system?

Quite simply, installing a NAS is a cost effective and efficient way to add further storage capacity to your network. It is generally, inexpensive and easy to install and allows lower maintenance costs than storage systems.

As a result, you should expect lower storage costs, lower maintenance and support costs and potentially negating the need for further server hardware which is generally more expensive.

Questions and answers

What is NAS - Network Attached Storage? - Network Attached Storage (known as NAS), is a type of storage system that enables individuals and organisations to quickly and easily store and access large volumes of information very cost effectively.

Why do I need network attached storage? - You will only need it if there is a genuine need for more storage. Generally speaking, moving data across to a NAS rather than using a file or application server can speed up the servers and make access to the data faster.

Is network attached storage something that I can install myself? - Generally speaking, yes. NAS appliances are 'plug and play' and as a result very little installation and configuration is required.

How does it work in practice? - Network attached storage appliances are easy to use so staff will still be able to access their files and data without requiring a large amount of training. They will simply see the NAS as another storage device which they can access.

Are there any pitfalls to installing network attached storage? - You need to ensure that you have a quota system in place as the more storage you have the more will be used!

Ensure that people are allocated storage according to their requirements. These quotas must be rigorously enforced. Also be aware that pictures and media files such as video downloads take up a great deal of space so again it should be made clear what should or should not be saved.

What are the limitations of network attached storage solutions? - There are a few limiting factors but these are becoming less as new technologies are developed.

That said, when purchasing network attached storage make sure that it meets with your organisations' performance and storage requirements. For example, in some instances, a NAS will not be as effective as other storage solutions, especially for certain database applications so you should discuss this fully with a potential supplier.

Could I use network attached storage at home? - Yes, they are an inexpensive and easy way to add storage. Naturally your requirements will differ from that of a large organisation that will need greater capacity.

How do I find the right vendors and partners? - Conjungo is a great start point, because it will let you find the right supplier according to your location, company type, size and whether they have the right accreditations. Furthermore, Conjungo is completely unbiased, has most of the major vendors' partners included and supported by the vendors as well as being fee to use.

Benefits of network attached storage

Organisations can gain a number of benefits by implementing a network attached storage system. The exact benefits will depend on the requirements, the situation and possible the type of organisation.

• Speed of access. Network attached storage systems are specifically designed for one purpose - to provide fast access to stored data. As a result, NAS are far faster than typical servers and storage facilities.
• Reliability. Many problems with servers are caused by storage related issues. Theses issues can impact a network and even cause the main servers to fail. This can have a serious impact on an organisation as it will mean that staff will not be able access information. By implementing network attached storage, you gain a more efficient network; reduce the risk of server downtime and as a result potentially save time and money. Overall, the design of a NAS system makes them particularly resilient and robust.
• Maintenance. Because network attached storage systems work independently of the organisation's servers, it means that if there are server issues or if maintenance is being carried out on the server(s), staff can still access critical data on the NAS independently of the network i.e. any work carried out will not impact the users of the network.
• Network degradation. Because storage systems can allow for potentially all users on a network to access information, applications and storage, the system may be prone to slowing down as these activities are a major overhead on the server and processor. A network attached storage system eliminates this because of the nature of its design and reduces potential 'bottlenecks' of information as people make multiple requests on the network server.
• Allocation of resources. NAS provides storage resources that can be shared by multiple computers and servers, regardless of type, operating system and architecture. For example people using an Apple MAC and PC users can still share the same files and data. This ensures that the network attached storage system can be used as a common resource and used according to where it is needed rather than by a group of people or a particular network. For example, if one server is running out of space while another has more than is required by its users, the storage can be effectively used by all users.
• Network attached storage systems do not require any software or licences; it is therefore a cost effective method of meeting your storage requirements.
• Easy to install. Network attached storage systems enables you to add storage anywhere on your organisation's network quickly. This means that a NAS can be plugged in within literally a few minutes, without any negative impact to the network and its users.
• Network attached storage appliances can be managed from anywhere using an internet browser. So even if someone is not near the location of a NAS and some work needs to be carried out, as long as they have access to the internet they can make the necessary changes.
• Cost benefits. NAS is a far more cost effective way of adding storage as opposed to other types of storage.
• It is not necessary to purchase a server with a NAS because they are a stand-alone appliance, so this once again potentially reduces the cost.
• Network attached storage appliances can be of particular benefit to home users as they are a very cost effective way of storing mass information such as media files, photos and other information.

Potential pitfalls

• Heavy use of a network attached storage system can potentially slow down a network thereby impacting the users of that network. NAS is really not suitable where there is a requirement for a great deal of data or data intensive applications such as certain database applications.
• Because NAS is a shared resource, it must be administered effectively. For example, some people will capitalise on this and use the storage at the expense of others. As a result, it is necessary to set and enforce 'quotas' outlining who and how much can be used.
• Because network attached storage is a shared system, it is not best suited to be used in a 'mission critical' situation and as a result there can be no guarantee that the NAS will always be operational. This is not an issue with NAS itself but because of the nature of the environment that it is operating in i.e. many people using it simultaneously as a resource.
• NAS uses standard network protocols to transfer information which means that it might not be as effective or as fast as alternatives.
• Network attached storage can slow down if too many users are trying to access it at once.

Buying and installing NAS

Step one

Identify the needs of your organisation and your users.

• What sort of information do my employees store and retrieve?
• Are they particularly heavy users of a database?
• What other types of information is stored?
• Are there any requirements that a particular group may need? Don't take anything for granted. Is network attached storage the best or appropriate solution?
• Your potential supplier should help you analyse your storage requirements depending on usage and type of files held.

Step two

Identify your needs for a new network attached storage system.

• What are my performance requirements?
• What equipment will I require?
• How will it be backed-up or archived?
• How much will it cost?
• How much will it cost to maintain and support?
• Consider future options - you may be looking to open another office or expand your current operation. As a result you will need to ensure that whatever you purchase now will be able to meet your future requirements.

Step three

Identify the right supplier.

• Use the Conjungo search box on the right hand side of this page.
• Look through magazine and online reviews.
• Talk to others who have recently installed a hosting solution in the same area as you.
• Use forums, networks and personal contacts to obtain recommendations.

Ask questions such as:

• Who has the experience of working with a company of the same size and profile as yours? This is particularly important if you use your system for 'trading' or ecommerce purposes.
• Are any of those suppliers local to where you are located?
• How many similar customers do they have?
• How many outages have they had that have impacted their customers?
• If their services were not working, how long was this for?
• Ask for references - ensure that the company is capable and reliable.
• Talk to a couple of their customers in order to see what benefits have been gained and what pains those customers went through when installing the system.
• Obtain a credit check through ICC Credit through the direct link within your chosen supplier's profile in Conjungo to ensure that they are financially stable.

Step four

• Request a proposal from three or four of your preferred suppliers.
• Set a deadline for when you need the proposal back.
• Give out details in advance as necessary to ensure that the suppliers you have selected can give you the best proposal.
• Go and meet them in person - get a good feel for whether you will be able to work with them.

Step five

Select a supplier.

• Who best demonstrates that they understand your business and your requirements?
• Is the solution flexible and scaleable and therefore able to meet future demand? You don't want to find out later that by investing a little more money now you could save money in the long term.
• Is it cost effective? Have they shown how and where you will save money?
• Does it clearly demonstrate the functional benefits - rather than just listing particular features? Does the proposal clearly show what the benefits are? There is no point on spending money for a system full of features that are of no benefit or that you will never use!
• How will your potential supplier support and maintain your system afterwards?
• How much will support and maintenance cost?
• Have you spoken to a couple of your preferred suppliers' customers?
• Agree on financial terms - you may be required to pay a deposit but do not pay the whole amount in advance of delivery.

Step six

Implementation, testing and go live.

• Install the new system. Only when you are entirely satisfied should you pay any balance outstanding on the invoice. This way, if there are any problems, your supplier will sort them out as a matter of urgency.
• Don't forget to account for user training!

Points to remember when installing a network attached storage system

Depending on the size and nature of your business you may wish to install a network attached storage solution yourself, assuming you have some technical experience. However, it always better to seek the advice and guidance of your supplier who should install the NAS relatively quickly and inexpensively.

1. Make sure that your storage requirements are suited for network attached storage. Do remember that where there are large amounts of information being sent to be stored, it may not be the best solution. You must get advice from one or more potential supplier.
2. Backup. You need to ensure that your NAS is backed up regularly as a contingency.
3. Speed. Will network attached storage provide the sort of speed needed to access information that you and your personnel require? There may be constraints according to the type of information and applications.
4. Take into account the growth of your organisation because for potentially a marginal amount of money you may well be better off buying more capacity now than at a later stage.
5. Ensure that everyone knows where and how to access the NAS so that they can use it effectively.
6. Do make sure that a process is place outlining how much space personnel have and what their quota is. Clearly, some will need more than others and this need to be planned and addressed.

Frequently asked questions

What is NAS - Network Attached Storage?
Network Attached Storage (known as NAS), is a type of storage system that enables individuals and organisations to quickly and easily store and access large volumes of information very cost effectively.

Why do I need network attached storage?
You will only need it if there is a genuine need for more storage. Generally speaking, moving data across to a NAS rather than using a file or application server can speed up the servers and make access to the data faster.

Is network attached storage something that I can install myself?
Generally speaking, yes. NAS appliances are 'plug and play' and as a result very little installation and configuration is required.

How does it work in practice?
Network attached storage appliances are easy to use so staff will still be able to access their files and data without requiring a large amount of training. They will simply see the NAS as another storage device which they can access.

Are there any pitfalls to installing network attached storage?
You need to ensure that you have a quota system in place as the more storage you have the more will be used!

Ensure that people are allocated storage according to their requirements. These quotas must be rigorously enforced. Also be aware that pictures and media files such as video downloads take up a great deal of space so again it should be made clear what should or should not be saved.

What are the limitations of network attached storage solutions?
There are a few limiting factors but these are becoming less as new technologies are developed.

That said, when purchasing network attached storage make sure that it meets with your organisations' performance and storage requirements. For example, in some instances, a NAS will not be as effective as other storage solutions, especially for certain database applications so you should discuss this fully with a potential supplier.

Could I use network attached storage at home?
Yes, they are an inexpensive and easy way to add storage. Naturally your requirements will differ from that of a large organisation that will need greater capacity.

How do I find the right vendors and partners?
Conjungo is a great start point, because it will let you find the right supplier according to your location, company type, size and whether they have the right accreditations. Furthermore, Conjungo is completely unbiased, has most of the major vendors' partners included and supported by the vendors as well as being fee to use.

In summary about network attached storage

Network attached storage is an inexpensive option when you are seeking to expand your storage requirements. It must be noted, however, that although it is generally a cost effective way of expanding storage, you must make sure that you purchase the right capacity (better to grow into something than grow out of it quickly!) and ensure that it meets your organisations' needs from performance and application perspective.

Your supplier will be able to advise you whether network attached storage is suitable. NAS is a great way to meet many requirements because it is so simple to install, use and ultimately maintain.

NAS has a place in most organisations regardless of size, so it can often meet the demands of small companies, home use and major institutions, though rest assured the capacity requirements will be different!

Glossary

Operating System - An operating system is a piece of software that sits in between your PC or computer hardware and the applications running on it. It allows the computer to allocate resources according to the user needs and the applications running on it. Examples of operating systems include Microsoft Windows, MAC, and Linux.

Mission Critical - Mission critical refers to a computer, application or process without which an organisation could not operate.

SNMP - Simple Network Management Protocol is a form of communication running across a network that can be used for collecting information about devices connected to the network, such as printers and servers. It can also be used to configure such devices, manage faults, and monitor network activity, all of which can all be performed remotely.

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