Want to know what is meant by NAS in computer networking so that you can understand more about it.
A network is a collection of computers, servers, mainframes, network devices, peripherals, or other devices connected to enable data sharing. An example of a network is the Internet, which connects millions of people around the world.
What is a Computer Network?
A computer network is two or more computers connected to each other for the purpose of electronically communicating data. In addition to physically connecting computers and communication devices, network systems have the important function of building a cohesive architecture that allows different types of equipment to transfer information in an almost seamless manner.
What is NAS
NAS stands for Network-Attached Storage, which is a file storage device that is connected to a network and allows multiple users to access data from a centralized disk capacity. Users on a LAN network can access the NAS storage via an ethernet connection.
NAS-type storage is fast, inexpensive, and offers all the advantages of an on-site public cloud. NAS uses file access protocols such as NFS , SMB, NCP, or AFP.
NFS is a popular file-based protocol on Unix systems. SMB stands for Server Message Block, which is used with Microsoft Windows systems. AFP is also the file access protocol used with Apple computers.
Uses and Functions of NAS
Here are some uses and functions of NAS in computer networks that are important for you to know.
NAS is basically designed for networked systems, which may process millions of operations per minute. This type of storage supports storage devices for organizations, which need a reliable network system. NAS is more economical than file servers and more flexible than external disks
Difference between NAS and SAN
The following table describes the differences between Storage Area Network (SAN) and Network Attached Storage (NAS):
| IN THE | SAN |
|---|---|
| 1. NAS stands for Network Attached Storage. | 1. SAN stands for Storage Area Network. |
| 2. Is a hardware device that is connected to a LAN via an ethernet connection. | 2. Using fiber channel to connect multiple data storage devices. |
| 3. Usually used at home. | 3. Used in corporate and professional environments. |
| 4. Managed easily. | 4. Need more administration to manage. |
| 5. In NAS (Network Attached Storage), the filename and byte offset are used to identify the data. | 5. In this case, the data is identified by disk blocks. |
| 6. Network Attached Storage is less complex than Storage Area Network. | 6. Network Area Storage is more complex than Network Attached Storage. |
| 7. It costs less than a SAN. | 7. More expensive than Network Attached Storage. |
| 8. Not relying on Local Area Network but using high speed fiber line network. | 8. Depends on Local Area Network and requires TCP/IP network. |
| 9. AFP, NFS, and SMB are the protocols used in NAS. | 9. ISCSI, FCoE, and SATA are protocols used in SANs. |
| 10. Files on the NAS are used for backup and recovery. | 10. In SAN, block by block technique is used for backup and recovery. |
| 11. NAS is a file storage device that does not work with virtualization techniques. | 11. Work easily with virtualization techniques. |
| 12. The file system is controlled and managed by the head unit in the NAS. | 12. The file system is managed and controlled by the server on the SAN. |
Difference Between NAS and DAS
The following table describes the differences between Direct Attached Storage (DAS) and Network Attached Storage (NAS):
| IN THE | THAT |
|---|---|
| 1. NAS stands for Network Attached Storage. | 1. DAS stands for Direct Attached Storage. |
| 2. Use files for backup and recovery. | 2. Using sectors for backup and recovery. |
| 3. These storage devices are more complex than DAS devices. | 3. This storage device is simple, uncomplicated. |
| 4. Network Attached Storage is a bit tricky to set up. | 4. Direct attached storage is easy to set up and install. |
| 5. The cost of these storage devices is higher than that of DAS devices. | 5. The cost is low compared to NAS. |
| 6. NAS capacity is 109 to 1012 bytes. | 7. DAS capacity is only 109 bytes. |
| 7. This storage device allows users to share files on different OS. | 7. This storage device does not allow users to share files on different OS. |
| 8. Using Ethernet and TCP/IP for data transmission. | 8. Using IDE/SCSI for data transmission. |
Advantages of NAS
Here are the advantages or benefits of Network Attached Storage (NAS):
- The NAS architecture is easy to install and configure.
- Any user or client in the network can easily access the Network Attached Storage.
- The main advantage of NAS is that it is more reliable than a simple hard disk.
- Another great advantage of a NAS is that it offers consolidated storage space within the organization’s own network.
- It performs well in serving files.
- NAS devices are scalable and easily accessible remotely.
- NAS is easily managed. It takes less time to save and recover data from any computer over LAN.
- It also offers security.
- It offers an affordable option for small and home businesses for personal cloud storage.
Lack of NAS
The following are the disadvantages or limitations of Network Attached Storage (NAS):
- Data transfer speed is not as fast as DAS.
- Users also need basic knowledge of computer networking to use the NAS efficiently.
- Those users or clients who want to back up their data, then they cannot proceed directly. They can do this using the installed operating system only.
Conclusion
That’s what Matob can tell you about NAS , which is expected to be useful and increase your knowledge regarding this matter.