NAS 101: An intro chat about Network Attached Storage

Network Attached Storage (NAS) is a valuable solution for storing and accessing large amounts of data over a network, offering advantages such as local gigabit speeds and the ability to avoid cloud storage costs. Unlike services like Dropbox, a NAS allows for high-speed access without the need to upload and download data from the cloud, though it lacks external support systems. It can be used for various purposes, including automated backups, media storage, and sharing a Steam library across multiple computers. Options for setting up a NAS range from simple, off-the-shelf devices to more complex systems built with extra computers and open-source software like FreeNAS, which allows for a customizable setup. The choice between using file-sharing protocols like SMB and NFS depends on the operating systems involved, with SMB being more suited for Windows environments. Common mistakes in setting up a NAS include overcomplicating the setup, which can lead to difficulties in recovery. Advanced features such as ZFS file systems offer benefits like snapshots and compression, enhancing data management and recovery options, making NAS a practical solution for centralized storage accessible from anywhere, especially with tools like Tailscale.