The Best NAS for Home Use in 2021: A Comprehensive Guide

In today's digital age, having the right tools and technology can make all the difference in streamlining your workflow and enhancing your overall computing experience. One such tool that has gained immense popularity is a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device. For those who are new to NAS devices, it may seem like just another storage solution, but trust us, it's much more than that.

In this article, we'll delve into the world of NAS and explore why you need one for your home setup in 2021. We'll also discuss what makes a NAS device stand out from the rest and provide recommendations on the best NAS devices available in the market today.

But before we dive into the details, let's take a step back and understand what a NAS is all about. A NAS is essentially a file-level computer that provides shared access to a group of users over a network. It's designed to store and share files, photos, videos, music, and other digital content with ease.

Now, you might be wondering why you would need a NAS device when you already have a computer or a laptop with ample storage space. Well, the answer lies in its ability to provide shared access to your files and allow multiple users to access them simultaneously without having to worry about compatibility issues.

But what really sets a NAS device apart is its ability to run virtual machines (VMs). A VM is essentially a software emulation of a physical computer that can run on top of another operating system. This means you can install and run multiple operating systems, such as Windows or Linux, alongside your main operating system.

For home users, this feature becomes especially useful when you want to test new applications or software that may not be compatible with your current operating system. With a NAS device, you can create a VM and install the desired operating system without having to uninstall your current OS. This way, you can have multiple environments running simultaneously, making it easier to switch between them as needed.

When it comes to choosing the best NAS for home use in 2021, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the key features to look out for:

* Storage capacity: A minimum of 2TB is recommended for most users.

* Processor speed: A faster processor will provide better performance and responsiveness.

* RAM: At least 4GB of RAM is recommended for smooth operation.

* Operating system compatibility: Make sure the NAS device is compatible with your preferred operating system.

* Network connectivity: Look for NAS devices that support multiple network protocols, including Ethernet and Wi-Fi.

Based on these factors, here are some of the best NAS devices available in the market today:

1. Western Digital My Cloud EX2 Ultra - This NAS device offers 2TB to 12TB of storage space and supports both Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity.

2. Synology DS718+ - This NAS device offers 4TB to 12TB of storage space and features a powerful processor and ample RAM for smooth operation.

3. QNAP TS-253B - This NAS device offers 6TB to 24TB of storage space and supports multiple network protocols, including Ethernet and Wi-Fi.

In conclusion, a NAS device is an excellent investment for any home user who wants to streamline their workflow, share files with ease, and test new applications. With its ability to run virtual machines, it provides a level of flexibility that's hard to match with traditional storage solutions. When choosing the best NAS for your home use in 2021, make sure to consider factors such as storage capacity, processor speed, RAM, and operating system compatibility.

Best nas for home 2021