NAS(NAS)
Angleški izraz: Network Attached Storage
Dedicated network data storage device — primarily used as shared file storage or a backup target.
Kaj pomeni NAS?
NAS (Network Attached Storage) is a standalone device that provides storage over a network. It typically contains multiple disks connected in a RAID for protection against disk failure, and an operating system that manages file sharing, user permissions, and connectivity.
In smaller companies, a NAS often serves as a file server, backup target, and storage for surveillance cameras. In larger companies, a NAS most commonly functions as a dedicated backup target or object storage.
The most well-known manufacturers of NAS devices for business use are Synology and QNAP. Both offer similar core features: SMB shares, AD support, snapshots, integrated backup, and cloud connectivity options.
Zakaj je to pomembno za podjetja?
A properly configured NAS greatly simplifies working with shared files while serving as a vital piece of a backup strategy. An incorrectly configured NAS, however, can become a primary target for ransomware attacks and the biggest risk point in the company. The key business question regarding a NAS is not 'how many TBs to buy' but 'how are permissions organized, how often do we check disk health, and how is offsite backup managed'.
Kje se to pojavi v praksi?
A typical example for a small business: a Synology NAS with four disks in RAID, connected to Active Directory for shared user permissions. It hosts shared folders by department, daily activated snapshots, and a cloud connection for offsite backup. Another common case: a separate NAS that serves exclusively as a target for Veeam or another backup system. Such a NAS is not in the same domain and does not have the same access rights as production servers — protecting it from ransomware attacks that would otherwise encrypt the backup as well.
Najpogostejše težave ali napake
The most common mistake: a NAS accessible with the same credentials as production servers. A ransomware attack that encrypts a server can easily encrypt the NAS and the backup via network shares. The backup target must be isolated and immunized. Another frequent issue: forgotten NAS operating system updates. Some well-known ransomware attacks from past years (such as Deadbolt) targeted unpatched Synology and QNAP devices. Third mistake: relying only on RAID. RAID protects against disk failure, not against accidental deletion, ransomware attacks, or fire. RAID is not a backup.
Kako pri tem pomaga VitalIT
At VitalIT, we first check the health of existing NAS systems (disk status, SMART reports, permissions, updates) and how the NAS is integrated into the backup strategy. Only then do we propose sensible steps. In practice, we help with the selection and setup of NAS devices, organizing shared folders and permissions via AD, integrating the NAS into the backup strategy (including immutable backup and cloud copies), and documenting procedures. We adapt solutions to the actual environment and the agreement with the client.
Sorodni izrazi
Povezane storitve
Pogosta vprašanja
- Is a NAS the same as a SAN?
- No. A NAS provides files via network protocols (SMB, NFS) and acts like a network drive. A SAN provides block storage over a significantly faster separate network and is most commonly used for demanding server environments. In practice, a NAS is cheaper and simpler; a SAN is more powerful and expensive.
- Is RAID on a NAS enough for data protection?
- No. RAID protects against the failure of one or two disks, but not against accidental deletion, ransomware attacks, theft, or fire. Proper data protection requires a real backup following the 3-2-1 rule.
- Can we expose a NAS to the internet?
- To exchange files with external collaborators, we do not expose the NAS directly to the internet. It is better to use VPN access or controlled sharing via cloud services. Direct exposure of a NAS has been the source of several well-known ransomware attacks.
- How long does a NAS device last?
- Hardware typically lasts 5 to 7 years of reliable operation, while disks have a shorter lifespan — therefore, regular replacement of disks before their end of life is part of normal maintenance.