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Everything NAS: The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Network Attached Storage

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🔹 Introduction: Why NAS is More Popular Than Ever

In 2025, Network Attached Storage (NAS) has evolved from being a niche solution for tech enthusiasts into a mainstream choice for businesses and households.

From small businesses backing up critical files, to home users streaming movies via Plex, NAS devices are now a cost-effective and reliable alternative to traditional servers.

But what exactly is NAS, and how does it compare to servers and cloud storage? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, including:

• What a NAS is and how it works.
• Key benefits for home and business users.
• NAS vs traditional servers vs cloud storage.
• The best NAS devices and drives in 2025.
• Setup, RAID, and security best practices.
• Future trends in NAS technology.

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🔹 What is a NAS?

Network Attached Storage (NAS) is a dedicated storage device connected to a network, allowing multiple users and devices to access files simultaneously.

Unlike a USB drive or external HDD, a NAS is designed to be always on, accessible from anywhere, and optimised for file sharing, backups, and media streaming.

Key Features of NAS:

• Centralised storage accessible via network.
• Configurable with multiple hard drives (HDD/SSD).
• Supports RAID for redundancy and performance.
• Accessible remotely (via VPN, mobile apps, or cloud sync).
• Runs its own lightweight operating system (e.g., Synology DSM, QNAP QTS, TrueNAS).

👉 A NAS is essentially a mini-server focused on storage.

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🔹 How Does NAS Work?

A NAS connects to your router or switch and appears as a shared folder or network drive. Users on PCs, laptops, and even smartphones can then:

• Upload/download files.
• Stream media.
• Back up data automatically.
• Access content remotely.

Common NAS Operating Systems in 2025:

• Synology DSM – user-friendly, app-rich, great for SMBs.
• QNAP QTS – powerful, more technical, enterprise features.
• TrueNAS CORE/Scale – open-source, flexible for DIY setups.
• Unraid – popular for home labs and Plex media servers.

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🔹 NAS vs Server vs Cloud

One of the most common questions is whether to buy a NAS, set up a full server, or just use cloud storage.

Feature	NAS	Server	Cloud
Cost	Low to medium	Higher upfront	Pay-as-you-go
Ease of Use	Very user-friendly	More technical	Very easy
Performance	Great for storage, limited apps	High – runs many services	Scalable
Accessibility	LAN + remote	LAN + remote	Anywhere
Scalability	Limited drive bays	Expandable with hardware	Virtually unlimited
Security	Good, depends on config	Strong with IT expertise	Depends on provider

👉 See also: NAS vs Server – Which Should You Choose?

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🔹 Benefits of NAS in 2025

For Home Users:

• Store and stream movies, music, and photos.
• Run a Plex or Jellyfin media server.
• Back up PC and smartphone data automatically.
• Create a personal cloud alternative to Google Drive or Dropbox.

For Businesses:

• Centralised file storage and collaboration.
• Automated backups for desktops and laptops.
• Cost-effective compared to servers.
• Integration with Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and cloud services.
• Security features like encrypted shares and VPN access.

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🔹 Choosing the Right NAS in 2025

When picking a NAS, consider these factors:

• Drive Bays: 2-bay (small/home), 4-bay (SMBs), 8+ bays (enterprises).
• Processor & RAM: Celeron or ARM CPUs for home, Xeon/AMD Ryzen for heavy use.
• OS & Ecosystem: Synology DSM vs QNAP QTS vs TrueNAS.
• Expansion Options: USB ports, 10GbE networking, expansion units.
• Budget: Entry-level units from £200, business-grade units £800+.

👉 Related guide: [Best NAS for Small Business (2025 Buyer’s Guide)]

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🔹 Best NAS Drives for 2025

A NAS is only as good as the drives inside it. Using the wrong HDDs can cause failures and data loss.

Top NAS Drives in 2025:

• WD Red Plus/Pro – reliable, NAS-optimised.
• Seagate IronWolf/IronWolf Pro – excellent for performance and durability.
• Toshiba N300 – budget-friendly, reliable.
• SSD NAS Drives (Samsung 870 QVO, Synology SAT5200) – for speed-critical workloads.

👉 See also: [Best Hard Drives for NAS (WD Red vs Seagate IronWolf vs Toshiba N300)]

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🔹 Setting Up Your NAS

Setting up a NAS is easier than configuring a full server.

Steps to Get Started:

1. Unbox & Install Drives – Insert compatible NAS HDDs.
2. Connect to Network – Attach to your router/switch.
3. Run Setup Wizard – Most NAS OS (DSM, QTS) guide you through.
4. Create Storage Pools – Configure RAID for redundancy.
5. Create Users & Permissions – Apply least privilege access.
6. Enable Backups – Sync to cloud or external drive.
7. Secure Access – VPN or HTTPS for remote access.

👉 See also: [How to Set Up RAID on a NAS]

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🔹 RAID Explained (for NAS Users)

RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) is essential for data protection.

• RAID 0: Stripes data, fast, no redundancy.
• RAID 1: Mirrors data, redundancy but 50% storage loss.
• RAID 5: Balance of speed + redundancy, minimum 3 drives.
• RAID 6: Similar to RAID 5 but can survive 2 disk failures.
• RAID 10: Combines mirroring and striping, best for performance + safety.

👉 Related: How to Set Up RAID on a NAS

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🔹 NAS Security Best Practices in 2025

NAS devices are increasingly targeted by ransomware.

Protect your NAS by:

• Keeping firmware updated.
• Closing unused ports (disable UPnP).
• Enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA).
• Using VPNs for remote access.
• Encrypting sensitive folders.
• Backing up NAS data to cloud or another NAS.

👉 See also: Server Security Best Practices in 2025

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🔹 Future of NAS Technology

In 2025, NAS technology continues to evolve:

• Hybrid Cloud Integration: Seamless sync with OneDrive, Google Drive, AWS.
• AI Storage Optimisation: Predictive caching and intelligent tiering.
• 10GbE Networking Becoming Standard: Faster speeds for SMBs.
• Container Support: Running Docker and VMs directly on NAS.
• Energy Efficiency: Low-power ARM processors for greener storage.

NAS devices are no longer “just storage” — they’re becoming all-in-one mini servers.

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🔹 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can a NAS replace a server?
Yes, for file sharing, backups, and small business needs. But servers are better for complex apps/databases.

Q: How much does a NAS cost in 2025?
Entry-level models start around £200. High-end 8-bay units for business can exceed £1,500.

Q: Do I need special hard drives for NAS?
Yes. Always use NAS-rated drives like WD Red or Seagate IronWolf. Standard desktop HDDs are not designed for 24/7 use.

Q: Can I use NAS for Plex?
Absolutely. Many NAS models include hardware transcoding for media streaming.

Q: Is NAS secure?
Yes — if properly configured. Using strong passwords, MFA, VPN access, and regular updates is essential.

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🔹 Final Thoughts

NAS has become the go-to choice for small businesses and home users needing reliable, affordable, and flexible storage in 2025.

Whether you’re setting up a 2-bay NAS for Plex, a 4-bay for small business file sharing, or an enterprise-grade rackmount, NAS offers a powerful alternative to traditional servers and cloud-only solutions.

This Everything NAS hub is part of our Everything Server series. Be sure to check out:

• NAS vs Server: Which Should You Choose?
• Best NAS for Small Business in 2025
• [How to Set Up Plex on NAS]
• [Best NAS Drives for 2025]

With the right setup and security, NAS can be the perfect balance of performance, cost, and convenience.

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