What is a NAS (Network Attached Storage)?
Introduction to the basics: what does NAS mean, how does it work, and why is it considered network-attached storage?
Most people have probably heard of a NAS before. But not everyone knows exactly what it is, how NAS systems work, what they can be used for, or what benefits they bring. Let’s start simple: NAS stands for Network Attached Storage. In practice, this is storage in the form of hard drives that are connected to your network. Depending on the setup, a NAS can be accessed in a private network and/or in a public network. Every NAS has its own operating system, usually managed through a browser.
The advantages of a NAS in everyday use
Why centralizing your data makes sense and how a NAS can solve common problems with multiple computers and devices.
With a NAS, you can centralize your data storage. Imagine you have several computers, each holding important files you regularly need. Normally, you would have to switch on the specific computer that contains the file. Or perhaps you’re traveling with a laptop and can’t access files stored on your home PC. This issue can easily be solved with a NAS: move all your files onto the NAS, and they become available across your network.
If you are setting up a Synology NAS or setting up a QNAP NAS, the main advantage is always the same: your data is in one place and available whenever you need it.
NAS security and user management
How a NAS protects your data with accounts, permissions, and access control.
Not everyone can access the data on a NAS. Every Synology NAS server or QNAP system comes with advanced user management. This means only registered users with accounts can access files — and they only see what belongs to them. Sharing files with other users is possible, and as the administrator you can grant the necessary rights. In short: each user only uses what the administrator allows. Your private files remain visible only to you.
NAS as a private cloud solution
Beyond file storage: how a NAS can become your personal cloud.
A NAS is more than just storage. It can serve as a fully functional private cloud, offering features such as:
- Centralized calendar system
- Centralized contacts
- Media server
- Website hosting
- Web databases
- Photo management
- Messaging services
- and much more
By installing a Synology NAS and exploring its apps, you can unlock many of these features yourself. With a bit of practice, even advanced use cases like backing up a Synology NAS or configuring a QNAP service become manageable without external help.
NAS vs. online services: privacy and control
Why a NAS can be the better choice compared to free online providers.
You might ask: why use a calendar or contact system on a NAS when there are so many online providers? The answer is simple: whenever you store data with an external provider, your data is often analyzed and sometimes used for marketing purposes. Free providers, in particular, rely on your data for advertising. If that doesn’t bother you, you can stay with them. But if you truly value your privacy, setting up a Synology NAS or QNAP NAS gives you full control: your data remains entirely in your hands, and you decide who can read or write it.
Synology vs. QNAP – the leading NAS providers compared
A look at the two biggest NAS brands and their strengths and weaknesses.
The two biggest players in the NAS market are Synology and QNAP. Both offer excellent systems, each with strengths and weaknesses. Personally, I prefer Synology because I find its operating system (DSM) more user-friendly than QNAP’s QTS. On the other hand, QNAP usually offers a broader range of third-party applications in its package center.
If you want to set up Synology NAS solutions for business or are considering installing Synology NAS at home, ease of use might be your top priority. If you need maximum flexibility, setting up a QNAP NAS could be the better fit. This is where NAS consulting can help you decide which direction to take.
Conclusion: finding the right NAS system
Tips on choosing the right system and making the most of it.
No matter which system you choose, once you’ve learned how to use it, you can accomplish a lot with both Synology and QNAP. With proper planning, you’ll be able to handle everything from installing Synology NAS devices to backing up a Synology NAS.
And if you ever get stuck, a professional NAS consultant can help you with setup, optimization, or troubleshooting. Whether it’s about setting up a Synology NAS, configuring a Synology NAS server, or simply general NAS consulting, the right guidance ensures that your system runs smoothly — and that you make the most out of your NAS investment.