Looking for a powerful and flexible home or small business storage solution?
A diskless NAS may be the perfect choice because it offers versatility to select the disk type, size, model, and RAID configuration that best suits your storage needs.
In this White Box Storage guide, we’ll unpack what makes diskless NAS special so you know what to look for when choosing yours.
Understanding Diskless NAS Systems
A diskless NAS is a network storage solution without hard drives. It lets us customize our storage based on our needs. Knowing what a diskless NAS is shows its benefits over traditional systems, like customization and flexibility.
What Makes a NAS Diskless
A diskless NAS doesn’t have built-in storage drives. This lets users pick their own drives, choosing brand, size, and type. When a new drive is added, the NAS sets it up automatically. This makes the diskless NAS great for those who want a storage solution that fits their needs.
Benefits of Choosing Diskless Configuration
Choosing a diskless NAS has many benefits. It’s often cheaper to buy devices without drives, helping control your budget. It also means you can use your storage more efficiently. Plus, you can customize your NAS to manage data better, like following the 3-2-1 backup rule.
Core Components of a Diskless NAS
To get the most out of a diskless NAS, we need to know its core parts. These include the processor, RAM, and connectivity interfaces. They work together to share files, distribute data, and ensure data safety. With the right parts, a diskless NAS can handle many users and keep data safe and accessible.
Features to Consider When Customizing a Diskless NAS
When we look to buy a diskless NAS, we must think about key NAS features. These features greatly affect how well our system works and how easy it is to use. Knowing what to look for helps us pick the right one for our needs, whether at home or for a small business.
The number of drive bays is very important. It tells us how much storage we can have. For example, a six-bay NAS with 8TB hard drives can hold up to 48TB of data. This is great for storing more and more files.
A NAS that backs up automatically is very handy. It keeps our important files safe all day. We should also look for strong security features. Things like file encryption and firewalls help keep our data safe.
Another thing to think about is how the NAS connects to the network. Top models often have built-in Wi-Fi. This makes it easy to access files wirelessly from devices like laptops and phones. It also means fewer cables, which is nice.
The NAS’s processor and RAM are key to its performance. A good rule is to have at least 1GB of RAM for every TB of storage. This makes the system faster and more efficient.
Choosing the right setup is also crucial. Avoid RAID 0 because it doesn’t protect against data loss. Instead, RAID 5 or 6 offers better protection for our files.
Finally, think about how long the NAS will last. Look for ones with longer warranties and support for high-quality drives. This way, we invest in a NAS that will last for years to come.
NAS Processor and Memory Requirements
The performance of a diskless NAS depends on its CPU and memory. Knowing about CPU performance and RAM needs helps us pick the right setup. Let’s dive into these details.
CPU Performance Requirements
Choosing a diskless NAS means looking at the processor and its cores. For running many virtual machines, a dual quad-core processor is best. This setup keeps things running smoothly, even with heavy tasks like Windows 2003 server or Windows 7 with development tools.
The newest processors boost performance and support faster internal speeds. This makes the system work better overall.
RAM Considerations
RAM is key for handling many tasks at once. Adding 16GB of memory is a good idea, especially with lots of VMs. Not enough memory can slow things down, making it hard to use during busy times.
Thanks to new NAS tech, we can set up systems for tough tasks. This ensures memory doesn’t hold us back.
Cache Options and Benefits
Caching makes our NAS systems faster. It helps get data quicker and makes everything more responsive, especially with big tasks. Using M.2 NVMe SSDs for caching is a big plus, helping manage workloads without losing speed.
When looking at different models, it’s important to think about caching. This helps make sure our system performs well with many apps and services.
Network Connectivity and Speed Options
Choosing a diskless NAS means looking at network options for diskless NAS closely. How well it connects affects its speed, especially in busy data environments. Most NAS devices act as hubs, letting many users connect at once over a LAN with ethernet connections.
Today’s NAS systems are built for fast speeds and reliable access. The type of NAS speed options matters, especially for ethernet. Faster devices can handle more data, which is key for big backups or databases.
But, during busy times, many users can slow things down. This is called I/O contention. Using faster storage like SSDs can help. It makes data faster to get and keeps everyone on the network happy.
Let’s look at the different ethernet speeds in NAS systems:
Ethernet Type | Speed | Common Use Case |
---|---|---|
Fast Ethernet | 100 Mbps | Basic home network tasks |
Gigabit Ethernet | 1 Gbps | Small business applications, moderate data loads |
2.5GbE | 2.5 Gbps | Home office setups, multimedia streaming |
10GbE | 10 Gbps | Enterprise-level applications, high-demand environments |
Choosing the right NAS with the right ethernet is key for top performance. It helps us manage our data, work together, and grow our systems as needed.
Storage Capacity and Drive Bay Configuration
When picking a diskless NAS, knowing about storage and drive bays is key. Different types of drive bays offer various storage solutions. You can choose from traditional HDD, faster SSD, or the latest NVMe drives. Each has its own benefits, impacting how well your system works.
Drive Bay Sizes and Types
Diskless NAS units come with different drive bay sizes and types. For example, the Synology DS923+ has 4 bays that can grow to 9 with the DX517 unit. It can hold up to 140 TB. The DS1823xs+ can go up to 18 bays with two DX517 units. This lets us expand our storage as our needs grow.
HDD, SSD, NVMe Drive Options
Type | Model | Brand | Size | Interface | TBW | Cache | Best Use Case |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NAS HDD | Seagate IronWolf | Seagate | 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 6TB, 8TB, 10TB, 12TB, 14TB, 16TB, 18TB, 20TB | SATA 6Gb/s | N/A | 256MB | Ideal for large data storage in NAS systems for home or small business use. Designed for reliability with 24/7 operations. |
WD Red Plus | Western Digital | 1TB, 2TB, 3TB, 4TB, 6TB, 8TB, 10TB, 12TB, 14TB | SATA 6Gb/s | N/A | 128MB | Optimized for small to medium NAS systems with moderate data traffic. Suitable for personal or light office use. | |
NAS SSD | Synology SAT5200 | Synology | 480GB, 960GB, 1.92TB, 3.84TB, 7.68TB | SATA 6Gb/s | Up to 11,460 TBW | N/A | Built for high-performance NAS tasks, such as video editing or virtualization. Designed to handle intensive read/write workloads. |
Samsung 870 EVO | Samsung | 250GB, 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB | SATA 6Gb/s | Up to 2,400 TBW | N/A | Excellent for upgrading NAS devices where performance and reliability are key. Affordable and durable, great for small NAS systems. | |
NAS NVMe | WD Red SN700 | Western Digital | 250GB, 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB | PCIe 3.0 x4 | Up to 5,100 TBW | N/A | Perfect for high-performance NAS tasks with multiple users, such as database hosting or video rendering. Built for reliability and 24/7 operations. |
Synology SNV3400 | Synology | 400GB, 800GB | PCIe 3.0 x4 | Up to 1,022 TBW | N/A | Specifically designed for Synology NAS systems with optimized speed and endurance. Ideal for read/write-intensive tasks, such as caching. |
This table provides a clear comparison of NAS drive options, highlighting their capacities, interfaces, endurance ratings, and suitable use cases to assist in selecting the appropriate drive for specific needs.
Notes:
- Cache Type: For SSDs and NVMe drives, specific cache types (e.g., DRAM, SLC) are often not disclosed by manufacturers.
- Endurance (TBW): Terabytes Written (TBW) indicates the total amount of data that can be written to the drive over its lifespan.
- Interface: SATA 6Gb/s is standard for HDDs and SATA SSDs, while NVMe drives utilize PCIe interfaces for faster data transfer.
RAID Support Levels
RAID in diskless NAS systems makes data safer and more reliable. Synology DSM Storage Management supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, and RAID 10. Choosing the right RAID level is crucial for balancing speed and data safety.
Expansion Possibilities
Diskless NAS devices are great for growing your storage. Systems like the DS1823xs+ let you add more drives easily. This means you can start small and add more as your storage needs grow, planning for the future.
NAS Operating System and User Interface
The NAS operating systems we choose really matter. Most systems use a web-based interface. This makes it easy to set up and manage without a keyboard or screen.
Synology DSM and QNAP QTS are top picks. They’re great for handling lots of data like videos and documents. They’re also good for businesses because they’re easy to use and can grow with your needs.
Knowing how to use the user interface in diskless NAS is key. A good interface makes things like file management easy. This is important for both tech-savvy users and those new to network storage.
Here’s a quick look at some top NAS operating systems:
Vendor | Operating System | Ease of Use | Features | Ideal Users |
---|---|---|---|---|
Synology | DSM | High – Intuitive layout | Multimedia support, Backup solutions | Home users, Small businesses |
QNAP | QTS | Moderate – Feature-rich | Virtualization, Multimedia streaming | Power users, Enterprises |
Netgear | ReadyNAS OS | High – Simplified configuration | Backup automation, Media server | Home users, Small businesses |
Asustor | ADM | High – User-friendly | Comprehensive app store, File sharing | Home users, Creative professionals |
NAS Media Streaming and File Serving Capabilities
Looking to boost your media experience? Knowing about a diskless NAS’s media streaming and file serving is key. These features let us stream media across devices and access files smoothly on our network. Let’s explore the multimedia features and NAS streaming protocols that make our home entertainment better.
Multimedia Features
A good media streaming NAS can handle high-resolution content like 4K video. To stream 4K, you need a fast connection, about 20 Mbps. A USB 3.0 pen drive can give you speeds around 20 MB/s, perfect for 4K.
For even faster speeds, use an 802.11ac Ethernet connection. It can reach speeds of about 35 MB/s. This ensures your media streams smoothly without any hiccups.
Supported Streaming Protocols
Having many NAS streaming protocols is crucial for serving media well. These protocols let us connect different media players and devices. This makes our streaming experience flexible.
While many NAS vendors have their own solutions, standards like SMB and NFS are widely used. They help our NAS work well with many platforms. This setup is great for streaming media and database needs, at home or in businesses.
NAS Security Features and Data Protection
Keeping our data safe is key. The right NAS device can really help. The ioSafe 218 is a top choice for its strong security.
It has encryption and access controls to keep data safe. This stops others from getting in without permission.
Customizable user access levels are a big plus. They let us control who sees what. Regular updates keep our systems safe from new threats.
RAID setups also help keep data safe. They make sure our data stays whole, even if something goes wrong.
The ioSafe 218 also guards against physical harm. It can handle up to 1550°F for 30 minutes and is waterproof. This makes it great for keeping data safe in tough conditions.
Using cloud services like Synology C2 Storage adds extra protection. Tools like Synology Photos and Synology Drive make backups easy. This way, we can keep our digital stuff safe from harm.
Best Diskless NAS Models for Different Budgets
Finding the best diskless NAS for your budget can be tough. We’ll look at top models by price: entry-level, mid-range, and premium. This guide will help you choose based on features, performance, and cost.
Entry-Level Options
For those on a tight budget, an entry-level home NAS is a great choice. The QNAP TS-233-US costs about $200. It has two drive bays and is easy to use. It’s perfect for home use.
Model | Price | Drive Bays | Max Capacity |
---|---|---|---|
QNAP TS-233-US | $199 – $229 | 2 | Diskless Storage |
Synology DS220j | $189 – $220 | 2 | Up to 32TB |
- ARM Cortex-A55 quad-core 2.0GHz processor with 2...
- Budget-friendly Home NAS for file storage and...
- Centrally store and organize personal or family...
- Mitigate the threat of ransomware with QNAP's...
- Effortlessly backup your Windows Computers with...
- Secure private cloud - Enjoy 100% data ownership...
- Easy sharing and syncing - Safely access and share...
- Comprehensive data protection - Back up your media...
- 2-year warranty
- Check Synology knowledge center or YouTube channel...
Mid-Range Solutions
Mid-range NAS offers great features for both home and work. The Synology DS220+ has a strong processor. It’s great for streaming and backups. It also supports many RAID setups.
Model | Price | CPU | RAM | Drive Bays |
---|---|---|---|---|
Synology DS220+ | $299 – $369 | Dual-core Intel Celeron J4025 | 2GB (expandable to 6GB) | 2 |
TerraMaster F4-423 | $350 – $479 | Quad-core Intel Celeron N5105 | 4GB | 4 |
- Featured dual 1GbE LAN ports to support network...
- Intel dual-core processor with AES-NI hardware...
- Access, share, and sync your data easily across...
- Average 15% performance boost to photo indexing...
- Check Synology knowledge center or YouTube channel...
- Powerful Hardware: N5095 Quad-core 2.0GHz CPU, 4GB...
- Maximum Internal Raw Capacity: 80TB (20 TB drive x...
- Multiple Backup Solutions: Centralized Backup,...
- Easily build file storage servers, mail servers,...
- Small-sized compact design, can be used vertically...
Premium Choices
Premium NAS offers top performance and features. The QNAP TS-932PX-4G has nine drive bays and 10GbE ports. It costs $659 and is ideal for big businesses.
Model | Price | Drive Bays | Networking |
---|---|---|---|
QNAP TS-932PX-4G | $629 – $679 | 9 | 2 x 10GbE, 2 x 2.5GbE |
Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen2 | $499 – $829 | 6 | 2 x 2.5G Ethernet |
- AnnapurnaLabs Alpine AL324 ARM Cortex-A57...
- 2 X 10GbE SFP+ ports
- 2 x 2.5GbE ports
- 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports
- 5 x 3.5-inch + 4 x 2.5-inch SATA 6Gb/s...
- CPU: Intel Celeron N5105 Quad-Core 2.0GHz (burst...
- Memory: 8GB SO-DIMM DDR4 (Expandable. max. 16GB)
- Expansion: 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2x1
- Network: 2x 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet (2.5G/1G/100M)
- PCIe Expansion Slots: 1x for optional expansion 10...
Each model has unique features for different needs and budgets. Our picks show how various prices and features meet user needs. This ensures you find the right NAS for your budget and storage needs.
Power Consumption and Energy Efficiency
When you buy a diskless NAS, knowing its power consumption is key. Today’s energy efficiency NAS models save money and help the planet. For example, the Synology DS414j uses just 8.5W when idle and 36.7W when active. Its power-saving features make it a top choice for saving money and energy.
The power consumption diskless NAS models vary in efficiency. The DriveStation Duo, with two hard drives, uses up to 48W. It’s designed to run all the time, saving you money on energy.
These NAS systems are also built to be energy-efficient. Brands like Synology use eco-friendly parts and follow RoHS standards. They use smart tech to save energy without losing performance. A study showed a 5% performance drop could save 19% on energy, which is great for saving money over time.
Features like USB 3.0 on devices like the DS414j also help. They let you transfer data fast, saving energy. With speeds up to 5 Gbps, these devices are good for the planet and your wallet.
Model | Power Consumption (W) | Data Transfer Speed (USB 3.0) | HDD Hibernation | RAID Support |
---|---|---|---|---|
Synology DS223 | 4.08 (Hibernation), 17.343 (Access) | Up to 5 Gbps | Yes | RAID 0, 1, SHR |
DriveStation Duo | Maximum 48 | 5 Gbps | N/A | RAID 0, 1 |
- Centralized Data Storage - Consolidate your data...
- Easy Sharing & Syncing - Share files and media in...
- Simple Data Protection - Back up your media...
- Intelligent Surveillance - Protect what matters by...
- 2-year warranty
- Pre-tested NAS-grade hard drives included – with...
- Premium desktop attached storage (DAS): ideal for...
- USB 3.2 Gen 1 offers universal connectivity for...
- Made in Japan - TAA compliant
- 8 TB – 2 drives included - ships in RAID 1 = 4...
When picking cost-effective storage solutions, think about energy efficiency NAS features. This helps us make smart choices that save money and protect the environment. It’s a win-win for our wallets and the planet.
Conclusion
Choosing the best diskless NAS with your long-term goal in mind is crucial. It will be the core for future upgrades.
They’re versatile and can grow with our needs but it’ better to oversize than to undersize because you can’t add more storage once all your bays and slot are filled unless you upgrade drive sozes.
We’ve given you a variety of diskless units and drives to consider. Please let us know which unit and drives you picked.
FAQ
What is a diskless NAS?
A diskless NAS is a storage device for your network. It doesn’t come with hard drives. You can pick your own drives based on what you need.
What are the benefits of using a diskless NAS?
Using a diskless NAS saves money. It also lets you choose how to set up your drives. You can customize the storage to fit your needs.
How do I set up a diskless NAS?
First, pick and install your drives. Then, set up the network and the operating system. You do this through the NAS interface.
What should I look for when buying a diskless NAS?
Look at the number of drive bays and the processor. Also, check the RAM and network options. Make sure it fits your needs.
How do I choose the right drives for a diskless NAS?
Consider your storage needs, such as capacity, speed, and endurance. For large data storage, NAS HDDs like Seagate IronWolf are suitable, whereas SSDs or NVMe drives are best for high-performance tasks like video editing or virtualization.
Can I use SSDs with a diskless NAS?
Yes, many diskless NAS models support SSDs. SSDs give faster access and better performance than hard drives.
Can I expand the storage capacity of my diskless NAS later?
Yes, many diskless NAS systems support expansion units that allow you to add more drive bays. This feature is useful if your storage needs grow over time.
What processor specifications are ideal for a diskless NAS?
The best CPU depends on how you use it. Look for multi-core processors. They handle tasks like file serving and streaming well.
How does RAID support work in diskless NAS devices?
RAID in diskless NAS lets you use multiple drives. You can choose for speed or safety. Each RAID level offers a different mix of both.
What type of operating systems do diskless NAS devices use?
Diskless NAS devices often use DSM from Synology or QTS from QNAP. These systems are easy to use and have many features.
How do I ensure the security of data in my diskless NAS?
Choose a business NAS with strong security. Look for encryption, access controls, and updates. These help keep your data safe.
Are there energy-efficient options for diskless NAS?
Yes, many diskless NAS models are energy-efficient. They use low-power processors and designs. This helps save money over time.