Organisations can gain a number of benefits by implementing a network attached storage system but these 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 storage and fast access to this 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 in some instances can cause the main servers to fail. This can have a serious impact upon 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 network servers are multi-user i.e. they provide information, applications and storage as well as numerous requests from users, the server is prone to slowing down as they 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 and so is 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 in literally a few minutes, a NAS can be plugged in without any negative impact to the network and its users.
- Network attached storage appliances can be managed from anywhere using the 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. Due to overall and decreasing costs, 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 becoming a very cost effective way of storing mass information such as media files, photos and other information.