Network Attached Storage (NAS) Software

What is Network Attached Storage (NAS) Software?

Network-attached storage (NAS) software, also known as network-attached storage operating systems or NAS server software, is the software that runs on a network-attached storage device or NAS server. Compare the best Network Attached Storage (NAS) software currently available using the table below.

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    TrueNAS

    TrueNAS

    iXsystems

    TrueNAS is the world's most deployed storage software. TrueNAS is a universal data platform that allows users to easily adopt a modern, open source approach to storing and protecting their growing data. TrueNAS is open source and harnesses the power of the legendary ZFS file system to provide unified storage (File, Block Object, and Apps) with the reliability and performance demanded by virtualization, backup, and many other data-heavy workloads. The TrueNAS CORE edition (formerly FreeNAS) is based on FreeBSD for unified scale-up storage. The TrueNAS SCALE edition is based on Debian Linux for either scale-up or scale-out solutions, and offers Linux Containers, VMs (KVM), and scale-out ZFS storage capabilities. Both are known to work well on standard hardware. Join the millions already using TrueNAS, including the majority of Fortune 500 companies, and experience why TrueNAS is very highly rated for yourself.
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    Starting Price: Free
  • 2
    NetDrive

    NetDrive

    Bdrive Inc.

    Cloud storage as hard disk Managing your favorite cloud storage cannot be easier. Just provide cloud login information, and all cloud storages will automatically appear as your virtual drive each time you start your PC. NAS storage as virtual drive You can connect to NAS servers by WebDAV or FTP. Many NAS vendors recommend NetDrive as a standard way to mount their NAS products. Share your NAS easily with anyone as virtual drive. SFTP to securely transfer files NetDrive supports secure file transfer by SFTP (SSH File Transfer protocol) . Unlike standard File Transfer Protocol (FTP), SFTP encrypt commands and data both, preventing passwords and sensitive information from being transmitted in the clear over a network.
    Starting Price: $19.90 per year
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    Synology DiskStation Manager
    Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) is the intuitive operating system that powers every Synology NAS. Let us organize and protect your data so you can focus on what you do best. Our latest official release offers more possibilities for large deployments, improved SMB file sharing options, more intuitive management, and new versions of our most popular packages, while being easier than ever to monitor and protect. Your Synology NAS will give a home to all your photos, videos, and music. Store and back up your media in a safe place that can be accessed from anywhere. Never lose your photos with easy backup tools for your mobile phone and Synology NAS. Share publicly, add passwords, or quickly set up extra user accounts to show off your work. Stream movies and TV shows to your Android TV, Apple TV, or portable devices. Organize libraries and configure permissions to share videos with family members.
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    Morro Data CloudNAS
    Morro Data CloudNAS Global File Services enable companies with two or more offices to share their files in real-time and no VPN or sync software required. Cloud NAS combines the local network performance of a NAS with the reliability, scalability, and accessibility of the cloud for a cloud-first solution. It allows businesses to quickly and efficiently have unlimited file storage, collaborate with multiple office file sync & lock, and get instant disaster recovery. Morro Data CloudNAS enables remote users to work on the same project as if on the same local network. The remote users can collaborate on the projects across multiple global sites with file syncing and locking in the background. Cloud NAS supports file locking for AutoCAD, Civil3D, Bluebeam, Microstation, Adobe, and Microsoft Office. The project files are safely stored in the cloud and cached to the local CacheDrive gateway for performance.
    Starting Price: $129.00/month
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    Windows Server

    Windows Server

    Microsoft

    Windows Server 2022 introduces advanced multi-layer security, hybrid capabilities with Azure, and a flexible application platform. Elevate the security posture of your organization starting with the operating system. Extend your data center to Azure ​for greater IT efficiency. Empower developers and IT pros with an application platform to build and deploy diverse applications. See how your cost savings will add up on Azure with offers such as Azure hybrid benefit and extended security updates. Modernize your workloads on Azure, the trusted cloud for Windows Server. Connect on-premises Windows Servers to Azure with Azure Arc. Update to the latest operating system for enhanced security, performance and value. Now you can leverage all of the benefits of the cloud with Azure. It’s free to start, so manage your servers, clusters, hyper-converged infrastructure, and Windows 10 PCs with Windows Server.
    Starting Price: $501 one-time payment
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    SoftNAS

    SoftNAS

    Buurst

    SoftNAS is a cloud-native, software-defined, full-featured enterprise cloud NAS filer product line for primary data storage, secondary storage and hybrid cloud data integration. It enables existing applications to securely migrate to and connect with the cloud without re-engineering. With enterprise-class NAS features like: high-availability, deduplication, compression, thin-provisioning, snapshots, replication, cloning, encryption (at rest and in transit), LDAP and Active Directory integration, and support for NFS, CIFS, iSCSI or AFP storage protocols, SoftNAS protects mission-critical and primary, active/hot data, backup/archive data and makes cloud data migration faster and more reliable. SoftNAS offers the broadest range of storage options in terms of price vs. performance and backend storage selection, on-demand at petabyte scale across the AWS and Azure Marketplaces or on-premises on VMware.
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    Unraid

    Unraid

    Unraid

    Unraid OS allows you to have ultimate control over your data, media, applications, and desktops, using just about any combination of hardware. Video producers, streamers with extensive video libraries, media editors, photographers, musicians, and music collectors use Unraid to reduce their initial costs. Start with as few as two drives and scale using one or more drives at a time. Gamers who also have media servers and like to build their own custom systems use Unraid to do everything without losing their edge. Designers, 3D animators, developers, photographers, and other users who require significant storage use Unraid to locally store assets for fast access. Use Apple Time Machine and Windows Backup services to archive large quantities of infrequently accessed data off of your local devices. Software engineers, game development studios, AR/VR designers, and university labs use Unraid to test software on multiple platforms and across operating systems and devices.
    Starting Price: $59 one-time payment
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    EasyNAS

    EasyNAS

    EasyNAS

    Without a file system, information placed in a storage medium would be one large body of data with no way to tell where one piece of information stops and the next begins. By separating the data into pieces and giving each piece a name, the information is easily isolated and identified. Taking its name from the way paper-based information systems are named, each group of data is called a “file”. The structure and logic rules used to manage the groups of information and their names is called a “file system”. Network-attached storage (NAS) is a file-level computer data storage server connected to a computer network providing data access to a heterogeneous group of clients. NAS is specialised for serving files either by its hardware, software, or configuration. It is often manufactured as a computer appliance – a purpose-built specialised computer.
    Starting Price: Free
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    XigmaNAS

    XigmaNAS

    XigmaNAS

    The XigmaNAS operating system can be installed on virtually any hardware platform to share computer data storage over a computer network. ‘NAS’ means “Network-Attached Storage”. XigmaNAS is the simplest and fastest way to create a centralized and easily-accessible server for all kinds of data easily accessed with all kinds of network protocols and from any network. XigmaNAS supports sharing across Windows, Apple, and UNIX-like systems. It includes ZFS v5000 , Software RAID (0,1,5), disk encryption, S.M.A.R.T / email reports etc. with the following protocols: CIFS/SMB (Samba), Active Directory Domain Controller (Samba), FTP, NFS, TFTP, AFP, RSYNC, Unison, iSCSI (initiator and target), HAST, CARP, Bridge, UPnP, and Bittorent which is all highly configurable by its WEB interface. XigmaNAS can be installed on Compact Flash/USB-key/SSD Drive, Hard disk or booted from a LiveCD/LiveUSB with a small usb-key/floppy drive for it’s configuration storage.
    Starting Price: Free
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    Enterprise Storage OS (ESOS)
    An easy to use file server that combines Windows-compatible network file sharing with a web based file manager. TurnKey File Server includes support for SMB, SFTP, NFS, WebDAV and rsync file transfer protocols. The server is configured to allow server users to manage files in private or public storage. Based on Samba and WebDAV CGI. An easy to use file server that combines Windows-compatible network file sharing with a web based file manager. TurnKey File Server includes support for SMB, SFTP, NFS, WebDAV and rsync file transfer protocols. The server is configured to allow server users to manage files in private or public storage. Based on Samba and SambaDAV.
    Starting Price: Free
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    Nexenta

    Nexenta

    Nexenta

    Eliminate storage silos with Nexenta's open source-driven storage software. Comprehensive storage management in appliance & configurable reference architectures. The features you need and expect from the leader in software-defined storage. Agile storage software allowing you to take advantage of all-flash, hybrid, and all-HDD options. Nexenta storage software is installed in thousands of companies across the world serving a wide variety of workloads and business-critical situations. It powers some of the world’s largest cloud deployments, hosts some of the industry’s best entertainment content, serves vast quantities of government data across multiple continents and ensures that hundreds of thousands of medical records are kept safe and available at the point of service for healthcare companies located worldwide.
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    MayaNAS

    MayaNAS

    ZettaLane Systems

    MayaNAS Cloud is a full featured enterprise-grade software defined storage solution that provides high-performance, high-throughput file storage on standard object storage (S3) without any additional resources. It is fully software-defined with support for file storage over NFS, SMB-AD and robust block services through NVMeoF, iSCSI and FC interconnect. Features: 2-node High-Availability, compression, thin-provisioning, unlimited policy driven snapshots and continuous replication. MayaNAS is readily available as marketplace solution on major public clouds AWS, GCP and Azure. It is also available as ISO image for bare metal installation on-prem.
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    openmediavault

    openmediavault

    openmediavault

    openmediavault is the next generation network attached storage (NAS) solution based on Debian Linux. It contains services like SSH, (S)FTP, SMB/CIFS, RSync and many more ready to use. Thanks to the modular design of the framework it can be enhanced via plugins. openmediavault is primarily designed to be used in small offices or home offices, but is not limited to those scenarios. It is a simple and easy to use out-of-the-box solution that will allow everyone to install and administrate a Network Attached Storage without deeper knowledge. openmediavault is primarily designed to be used in small offices or home offices, but is not limited to those scenarios. It is a simple and easy to use out-of-the-box solution that will allow everyone to install and administrate a Network Attached Storage without deeper knowledge.
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    Rockstor

    Rockstor

    Rockstor

    Rockstor as a Cloud and Storage platform enables hackers, makers/re-distributors, and DIYers to build completely custom solutions. Storage is an essential part of most software and hardware projects – be it an embedded project or a web application, but options for a robust storage layer with complete control are limited. Rockstor Traditional NAS Server is the recommended solution if you need a robust NAS server without bells and whistles. It allows you to access centralized storage over the network (NAS). While Linux has become the best platform for many things, with great filesystems, it has until recently lacked one like NetApp’s WAFL or Sun’s ZFS. BTRFS is rapidly filling that void by offering many great features. Rockstor Small and Midsize Business (SMB) Cloud Server is the recommended solution for organizations with several hundred Terabytes of capacity requirement.
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    Amahi

    Amahi

    Amahi

    Amahi is software that runs on a dedicated PC as a central computer for your home. It handles your entertainment, storage, and computing needs. You can store, organize and deliver your recorded TV shows, videos and music to media devices in your network. Share them locally or safely around the world. And it's expandable with a multitude of one-click install apps. Amahi Sync™ is a new and exclusive Amahi app that very easily allows you to sync, share and back up files online automatically. It's your personal cloud. Without any extra software to install. Amahi Sync runs on your HDA and monitors files in shares that you enable for syncing. When new files are added, deleted or files change, they are automatically synced with Amahi's cloud storage. You can then browse the files there or share them.
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    PetaSAN

    PetaSAN

    PetaSAN

    PetaSAN is a scale-out active/active storage solution offering massive scalability and performance. PetaSAN uses modern cloud based technologies to provide the elasticity and agility to scale up the storage cluster simply by adding more nodes; this can be done at any time and in a truly non-disruptive manner. Although PetaSAN uses different underlying technologies that are inherently complex, it provides an integrated end to end solution that is very easy to install and operate. PetaSAN can be operated by non-Linux admins through its easy to use graphical interfaces while still allowing Linux experts full control if they wish. PetaSAN brings proven technologies powering many of today’s largest clouds to the datacenter with point and click interfaces. At the storage level PetaSAN relies on the Ceph storage engine. Ceph is the leading edge open source SDS cloud storage solution powering many of today’s private clouds and public clouds.
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    Openfiler

    Openfiler

    Openfiler

    Openfiler converts an industry standard x86_64 architecture system into a full-fledged NAS/SAN appliance or IP storage gateway and provides storage administrators with a powerful tool to cope with burgeoning storage needs. Openfiler ensures that storage administrators are able to make the best use of system performance and storage capacity resources when allocating and managing storage in a multi-platform network. Openfiler provides key features such as iSCSI target for virtualization, Fibre Channel target support, block level replication and High Availabilty that are the mainstay of any business critical storage environment. Openfiler is the first commercially viable Open Source NAS/SAN solution and it comes with a wealth of features and capabilities that address specific storage management pain points. First, it can be installed on industry standard server hardware, negating the need for expensive proprietary storage systems.
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    StoneFusion

    StoneFusion

    StoneFly

    StoneFly StoneFusion™ transforms bare-metal to enterprise iSCSI SAN, NAS, S3 object storage, or a unified storage appliance with integrated ransomware protection, storage optimization, and monitoring data services. StoneFusion is also available in Azure, AWS, and StoneFly cloud.
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Guide to Network Attached Storage (NAS) Software

Network Attached Storage (NAS) software is a type of computer storage that allows for the centralization of files and data in one secure place. This can be beneficial for organizations that require multiple users to have access to data from different locations. It is also used to back up important files, share resources between networked computers, offload large applications from other systems, or just store large amounts of data in one location.

NAS works by connecting a hard drive to your local area network (LAN) and then using NAS software to manage the data stored on it. The NAS software acts as an intermediary between the hard drive and the user’s computer, providing a way for data to be accessed remotely across the network. Depending on what features are included with a particular NAS system, users may be able to access their files from anywhere in the world via an internet-equipped device such as a smartphone or tablet.

The most common uses for NAS software include backing up personal files and media content, creating remote file servers accessible over the internet, managing multiple users with different levels of access privileges, setting up streaming media players (such as Apple TV or Roku), running private clouds for personal use, etc. Most reputable manufacturers offer reliable customer support services in case you need help getting setup or troubleshooting any issues with your NAS system.

When shopping around for a NAS system there are several factors you need to consider including: cost; total storage capacity; number of users supported; level of security offered; speed of file transfers across the network; scalability of the solution; types of applications supported by the system; interface options available (e.g., web browser); ease-of-use; and more. Once you’ve determined these factors it’s time to make your purchase so you can start enjoying all the benefits that come with owning a Network Attached Storage System!

Features of Network Attached Storage (NAS) Software

  • File Sharing: NAS software allows users to share files across a network, making it ideal for remote collaboration and storage. Files can be shared with individuals or groups of people, providing an easy way to manage and store important documents.
  • Flexibility: NAS software provides users with versatile storage options, allowing them to configure the system to fit their individual needs. It can be used for file sharing, streaming media files, backing up data and much more.
  • Data Protection: With NAS software, data is automatically backed up on a regular basis. This ensures that users have access to their files even if there is a hardware failure or network outage. The software also provides protection from unauthorized access by encrypting files and controlling who has access to the content.
  • Scalability: As businesses grow and user needs change, NAS software can scale easily in order to meet those changing needs. The system can easily expand as more storage space is required, ensuring that businesses always have adequate capacity available when needed.
  • Easy Setup and Management: Setting up a NAS system is relatively simple and does not require advanced technical skills. Once setup is complete, the software provides users with an intuitive interface that simplifies ongoing maintenance tasks such as managing user accounts or setting up security protocols.

What Types of Network Attached Storage (NAS) Software Are There?

  • Network File System (NFS) Software: This type of software allows users to access files stored on a remote server or computer as if they were stored locally. The software supports multiple operating systems, such as UNIX, Linux and Windows, and is often used for home or small business networks.
  • Storage Area Network (SAN) Software: This type of software provides an interface between storage hardware devices and the network. It manages the storage devices, allowing users to access shared storage resources from multiple computers at the same time. It also helps administrators centrally manage a large number of devices by providing detailed analytics on their use.
  • Cloud-Based NAS Software: This type of software stores data on external cloud servers rather than local hard disk drives. It offers secure backup solutions for businesses with high availability requirements, as well as scalability options that can be adjusted according to usage demand.
  • RAID Technology Software: This type of software combines several hard disks into one logical unit to provide higher levels of data reliability and performance. RAID technology enables users to increase capacity while ensuring data integrity in case one of the disks fails. There are different types of RAID levels depending on how much fault tolerance is desired in the system.
  • Backup and Recovery Software: This type of software enables users to back up their data regularly so that it can be restored quickly in case there is an unexpected outage or failure in the network system. The software also helps ensure compliance with regulatory requirements by keeping detailed records about when backups were completed and what information was included in them.

Network Attached Storage (NAS) Software Trends

  1. Increased Reliability: NAS software is becoming increasingly reliable as manufacturers strive to provide a secure and dependable storage system for users. This includes improvements in hardware and software, such as robust RAID controllers, improved error correcting code (ECC) algorithms, and better power management systems.
  2. Increased Scalability: With the growth of data and digital devices, businesses are requiring an ever-increasing amount of storage space. NAS software has become more scalable, allowing for the easy addition of storage to meet the growing needs of businesses.
  3. Improved Data Security: As data security becomes a more pressing concern, NAS software is being designed to ensure that stored data is kept safe and secure. Encryption and data protection features are being built into many NAS systems, making them difficult to access without proper authentication.
  4. Improved Accessibility: NAS software is being designed with improved remote access capabilities, allowing users to access their files from anywhere in the world via their mobile devices or computers. This makes it easier for businesses to share information between employees located in different locations.
  5. Integration with Cloud Services: Many NAS systems are now integrating cloud services into their systems, allowing users to store data on remote servers and access it from any location. This allows businesses to take advantage of cloud services while still maintaining control over their stored data.

Network Attached Storage (NAS) Software Benefits

Network attached storage (NAS) software offers a number of advantages:

  1. Increased Capacity: NAS solutions provide expansive and scalable storage capacities. Not only can they be easily expanded to accommodate greater amounts of data, but they also offer users flexibility when it comes to how much capacity they need. This enables businesses to dynamically adjust their storage needs as needed.
  2. Enhanced Security: By utilizing dedicated server hardware for data storage, NAS solutions help protect against unauthorized access, malware infections and other forms of cyber-attacks. In addition, many NAS solutions feature built-in encryption capabilities which further increase the level of security provided by the system.
  3. Cost Savings: The cost savings associated with NAS solutions are considerable. Instead of investing in costly specialized hardware for each individual workstation or server, businesses can deploy a single NAS solution across multiple systems and reap the benefits of increased scalability and efficiency without having to invest additional capital up front.
  4. Data Protection: Additionally, many NAS solutions feature powerful backup capabilities which enable businesses to protect their data from both local failures such as a hard drive crash or power outage as well as remote threats such as malicious actors or natural disasters. By leveraging these features businesses can ensure that their most sensitive data remains safe and secure at all times.
  5. Easy Accessibility: Finally, network attached storage solutions provide easy access anytime anywhere via the internet making it convenient for users to quickly retrieve files on any device no matter where they are located in the world. This allows employees to work remotely without missing out on important documents stored within the system.

How to Choose the Right Network Attached Storage (NAS) Software

When selecting the right network attached storage (NAS) software, there are a few key things to consider.

First, evaluate your data storage needs. Consider how much data you will need to store and whether it will be static or changing frequently. This will help you determine the capacity of the NAS software that best suits your needs.

Next, research the types of NAS software available in order to identify which one is right for you. Different products offer different features such as scalability, security measures, and pricing structures that can affect your decision.

Once you have conducted your research and narrowed down your options, consider the user experience offered by each product. If a NAS software is too complex or difficult to use, it won’t be beneficial for you in the long run no matter how many features it offers. Also check reviews from other customers to get unbiased opinions before making a final decision.

Finally, ask about support services when selecting a NAS software product. The ability to access reliable technical support should an issue arise can make a big difference in getting any problems fixed quickly and efficiently so that you don't suffer downtime due to technical issues with the system.

Compare network attached storage (NAS) software according to cost, capabilities, integrations, user feedback, and more using the resources available on this page.

What Types of Users Use Network Attached Storage (NAS) Software?

  • Business Consumers: These users typically use NAS software to securely store and share files among employees, departments, or within their organization.
  • Home Consumers: Home users often utilize NAS solutions to create a personal cloud storage system with large capacity for video streaming and backup purposes.
  • Creative Professionals: Designers, photographers, videographers, and other creative professionals can benefit from the efficiency of using NAS for file sharing and collaboration with colleagues.
  • Media Publishers & Distributors: Companies in media production or distribution can use NAS as a central repository for video content that is easily accessible from remote locations.
  • IT Professionals: Corporate IT teams require reliable networking solutions to store data securely and protect against malicious attacks.
  • Educational Organizations: Schools and universities use NAS products to provide students with access to educational materials or manage research projects between academics.

How Much Does Network Attached Storage (NAS) Software Cost?

The cost of network attached storage (NAS) software can vary greatly depending on the features and complexities needed. Generally, solutions start at around $50 for basic entry-level options and can increase to several thousand dollars for more advanced solutions. There are also monthly subscription plans available in some cases, which provide a variety of storage space options and backup capabilities. The amount you pay will depend on the amount of storage needed and the complexity of the feature set. Additionally, there may be additional hardware costs such as buying a NAS device or external hard drive to supplement an existing computer's file storage capabilities. Ultimately, choosing the right NAS solution for your needs depends on how much data you need to store and secure, how often you plan to access it, what level of redundancy you need, etc.

Network Attached Storage (NAS) Software Integrations

Network attached storage (NAS) software can integrate with a variety of other types of software, such as operating systems, backup programs, media servers, database applications, and web hosting platforms. Operating system software enables users to store and access files stored on the NAS using their computers or devices; this includes popular platforms like Windows, Mac OS X and Linux. Backup programs provide users with an automated way to back up their data onto the NAS for increased security. Media server software provides streaming access to music, videos and photos stored on the NAS from other computers or devices. Database applications can be used to store larger amounts of data that require complex organization and sorting capabilities; examples include Oracle and Microsoft Access. Finally, web hosting platforms enable users to host websites directly from their NAS device; this is often done through installing packages such as Apache HTTP Server or NGINX.