How to Use Network Attached Storage
Network attached storage is also referred to as NAS and is a type of hardware storage device that simply attaches to the network of a computer. It is not classified as a computer, since it does not have the necessary computer components, such as a processor. This device is used for such reasons as backing up processes and archiving data into one location.
- Choose a location to place the device that seems appropriate for your space. The ideal space is a network room that is secured or a lockable phone closet. The data on this device can be encrypted or password protected, but this does not protect it from being stolen, if it is not secured by a physical means.
- Connect this device to the network. This can be via a number of different ways and depends directly on the configuration of your network. These options include a SCSI, fibre channel or Ethernet cord. Regardless of which type of connection you use, make sure it is plugged into a surge protector of industrial strength.
- Install your software for configuring the device and archive the software for the future event of reconfiguring the device.
- Install cataloging software, anti-virus software and backup and recovery software onto the computer that controls the NAS. You will use this computer as the master computer, so you can control the maintenance when it needs to be performed. This can include updating firmware, software or drivers and partitioning the drives.
- Map the NAS as a network drive for all computers that need to use it and can access it through mapping. Once you have completed the setup, the unit will show as a network. It can be used as storage for backup at night and on the weekends that only the IT department can access or it can be used so all users can access it as a common file server.