How to Use NAS as Cloud Storage?

Quick Search:

• What is NAS (Network-Attached Storage)?
• Benefits of Using NAS as Cloud Storage
• How to Set Up NAS as Cloud Storage
• NAS Cloud Storage vs Traditional Cloud Storage
• Conclusion
• Bonus Tip: Best Way to Move Data Between NAS and Cloud Services

What is NAS (Network-Attached Storage)?

Fundamentally, NAS is a specialized storage device that joins your network and enables data access and storage for numerous users. Consider it your personal cloud, which you can manage and control from the convenience of your home or place of business. NAS devices are more sophisticated than conventional external hard drives and have their own operating system, which enables file sharing, centralized data storage, and even backup options.

Key Features of NAS

NAS's feature set is one of the aspects that makes it so effective as cloud storage:

• Centralized Storage: NAS unifies all of your files in a one area, allowing you to access them from a variety of devices, including your computer, tablet, and smartphone.
• Data Sharing: It makes it simple for people on your network to share files and folders.
• Remote Access: Similar to a cloud service, your NAS device can be accessed remotely from any location with the correct setup.
• Backup Solutions: A lot of NAS devices have built-in backup software, which makes it simple to safeguard your valuable data.

Benefits of Using NAS as Cloud Storage

So, why should you consider using NAS for cloud storage? Let’s look at some of the benefits.

Increased Security and Privacy

You are putting your trust in outside businesses when you store data on conventional cloud storage solutions. Although Dropbox and Google Drive have strong security features, you never truly have complete control over your data. With NAS, however, you get total control. You can set up your own security protocols, including encryption, and limit access to the files stored on your device.

Cost Efficiency

Let's be honest: over time, subscription costs for cloud storage services can mount up. With NAS, your storage expenses are practically zero after the initial purchase of the unit. Because of this, NAS is a great option for long-term storage requirements, particularly for families or enterprises that need to store a lot of data.

Flexibility and Accessibility

Similar to conventional cloud storage, NAS systems are remotely accessible, so you may view your information from any location in the world. The distinction is that you don't have to pay recurring monthly fees to enjoy the privilege. All you need to access your files after configuring your NAS device is an internet connection and the correct login information.

How to Set Up NAS as Cloud Storage

Setting up NAS as your cloud storage solution might seem like a daunting task, but it’s easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it.

Step 1. Choosing the Right NAS Device

Choosing a NAS device that suits your needs is the first step. From tiny personal NAS devices to massive enterprise-level systems, there are a wide variety of alternatives. Among the things to think about are:

• Storage Capacity: Consider how much room you'll require for storage. You can expand your storage capacity as needed because NAS devices frequently include numerous drive bays.
• Connectivity: For simpler access, look for NAS devices with quick network connections, such as Wi-Fi or Gigabit Ethernet.
• Brand: Well-known brands with dependable NAS equipment and first-rate service include Synology, QNAP, and Western Digital.

Step 2. Setting Up the NAS Device

Once you’ve purchased your NAS, the next step is to get it connected. Most NAS devices come with an easy-to-follow setup guide. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Unbox and Connect: Plug in the NAS device to your router using the Ethernet cable.

2. Power Up: Turn on the device and wait for the startup process.

3. Install Hard Drives: If your NAS requires hard drives, install them into the designated bays.

4. Configure Network Settings: Use the NAS’s interface (usually accessed through a web browser) to configure network settings like IP addresses.

Step 3. Installing Cloud Software on NAS

To use your NAS device as a cloud storage system, you must install cloud software after it is operational. Both ownCloud and NextCloud are well-liked choices that transform your NAS into a feature-rich cloud storage solution.

1. Install Software: Use the NAS’s app store or a manual installation method to install the cloud software of your choice.

2. Configure Settings: Set up user permissions, create folders, and enable remote access features.

3. Sync Files: Start syncing your local files with your NAS, making them available across your devices.

NAS Cloud Storage vs Traditional Cloud Storage

Now that you have a NAS set up, let’s compare it to traditional cloud storage options. Both have their pros and cons, but depending on your needs, one may be better than the other.

Performance and Reliability

Traditional cloud services are maintained by large corporations, offering high uptime and speed. However, they can be susceptible to outages. With NAS, as long as you maintain your device, the performance and reliability are entirely in your hands.

Data Storage Capacity

Traditional cloud services often offer limited free storage, with additional space available for a fee. NAS devices, on the other hand, allow you to expand your storage as much as you need, depending on how many hard drives your device supports.

Conclusion

To sum up, there are several advantages to employing NAS as a cloud storage option, such as improved security, cost effectiveness, and flexibility. Whether you're a small business owner or just someone wishing to store personal files, you can construct a dependable, secure, and private cloud storage solution that suits your needs by setting up your own NAS. NAS has the potential to revolutionize data management and access with the correct configuration.

Bonus Tip: Best Way to Move Data Between NAS and Cloud Services

The cloud sync and cloud backup services built into NAS can indeed solve the data migration needs of most users, but what if there is no supported cloud service? You can try MultCloud. This tool supports adding 30+ popular cloud services and file storage services on the market, and supports a variety of cloud data migration functions, such as:

• ✅Cloud Transfer: Scheduled transfer of large amounts of data between cloud accounts.
• ✅Team Transfer: Scheduled transfer of tenant or sub-account data between enterprise accounts.
• ✅Cloud Sync: Quickly synchronize and update the changed content to another account.
• ✅Cloud Backup: Safely backup or restore important data between cloud accounts.

In addition, in order to meet more user needs, MultCloud also launched services such as image download, cloud torrenting and email migration.

• ✨Instagram Downloader: Free download of Instagram posts, reels and stories.
• ✨Remote Upload: Directly parse the content in torrents, magnet links or URLs to the cloud.
• ✨Email Migration: Save emails and attachments from Gmail or Outlook to cloud accounts.
• ✨Share: Share cloud account files with anyone at any time and set encryption.