Data Backup Digest

NAS stands for Network Attached Storage. A NAS connects through a computer’s network and allows multiple computers to access the same storage space. This is different to something like an external USB hard drive, where only the computer that it’s attached to can view the files. A NAS is beneficial in home and business, offering great features for those who are often transferring or backing up data. This article will explore some of the benefits that come with using a NAS.

Increased storage
One of the most popular reasons for using a NAS is to increase the amount of storage space you have for your data. Like hard drives, NAS devices come in varying GB and TB capacities, but with the benefit that everyone can make use of the space.
Rather than buying a new hard drive for each individual computer that runs out of space, a NAS can pool everything together in one unified system. For example, one computer might have a 500GB hard drive but barely use any of that space, while another might have the same capacity and have it nearly full up. By using a NAS all of this space is shared and there’s no lost cost in buying space for those who don’t need it.

Data sharing
As touched upon above, a NAS is great for sharing all of your data across your user base. It is possible to set up limitations so that only users with certain permissions can access certain data, should that be a need.
In a home setting a family could use it to share their pictures and videos across all their devices. In the workplace, all employees would be able to, say, contribute to a report or view schedules. Everything is updated in real time and there’s no need to email large documents or store data on memory sticks.

Backup
A NAS can be used as one method of backup. A lot of NAS devices can be configured so that they will automatically backup data from the computer onto the network. When any change is made to the file on the client side, this can then be updated automatically on the server.
Backing up files this way will save a lot of time; no longer will you have to individually backup each computer in turn. It’ll give you a peace of mind, is easy to set up, and you don’t have to think about it – once it’s running, that’s it.

Access to other devices
Other devices, like a printer, can be shared through the NAS. This saves for a lot of setup time, like individually configuring the printer to be compatible on every computer. New printers can be added with ease and users can utilise them instantly through the NAS.

Data encryption
Some NAS devices will offer data encryption, which is a good step for all users to take to protect their data. Encrypted data is harder to access than data without security. If you’ve got data that could be damaging if it fell into the wrong hands, encryption is something that should absolutely be done.