How do I use a NAS?

Logun · July 22, 2015

swallowing my pride to ask this but how do I use a NAS.

I have 3 mismatched HDDs in my PC that always cause me issue when I fresh install my OS, so I thought if I got a NAS I wouldn't have to deal with them anymore.

However I don't have a clue how to use a NAS....

Does something like this require an OS to be installed - http://www.memoryexpress.com/Products/MX54199

How does it appear on the network? Does it matter that my 3 drives are all completely different? (1TB, 2TB and 3TB drives)

Is this something that just stays on 24/7? Is it pretty quiet?

Thanks!

Oshino Shinobu · July 22, 2015

For the most part, NAS boxes like that are plug and play. They'll come with directions, but they're fairly easy to set up, and most of the time can be configured via a webpage, similar to router configuration. You don't have to use one of those, you can essentially just use a PC as a NAS by installing some NAS software on it, either over an OS, or as the OS (FreeNAS). That's a bit more involved though, so one of the boxes may be better for you.

Some of them will allow things like Plex to be installed and run, so it can be used to stream content using that media server/player platform, or you can just essentially use it as external storage. I'd recommend having a look round on youtube for guides on NAS setup and use.