Looking for small NAS

[Lizlodude]

Hello all,

I'm looking to buy/build a small NAS for data storage and backups, and I don't see anything on the forum that seems to suit my needs. I'm looking for 2 TB in RAID 1 for redundancy, (2 2TB WD REDs?) and remote access from my laptop, whether via FTP or cloud, so nothing huge. I've only got two computers that will be using it, and speed is not a huge issue. I'm trying to keep it as cheap as possible; I don't know whether it would be less to buy a prebuilt NAS or build one. All the prebuilt ones I can find seem to either be just a raid storage using USB or a $600-$700 home network. Recommendations or information is is appreciated.

Also, is it possible to partition a RAID 1 volume, i.e. Have 1 TB set aside for data storage for specific computers and 1 for backups? I know this is probably not necessary but it help my OCD to have it separated .

Thanks for the help,

-Liz

[Spannerhands]

Twin drive synology job done.... software is worth the price you pay, has apps like PLEX as well... 

[techguru]

yep..synology

[Kyuubixchidori]

I have a WDmycloud, works wonders. for small capacities, and solely just a NAS, prebuilt is usually the way to go. 

[GzeroD]

If your just looking for something simple the WD MyCloud Mirror comes with 2 2TB reds  can be configured for raid 0 or 1 or drive spanning and has all the features you mentioned.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Cloud-Mirror-2-bay-Personal-Storage/dp/B00ITI05CS

[Lizlodude]

Does the Synology one come with drives, or is it just the enclosure? Cause if it doesn't then it's $270 vs $530 for the drives so that decision's made. I somehow ignored the fact that the $270 WD one came with two $100 drives already