Rackmount NAS

Advantages of Rackmount Network Attached Storage

Introduction

What is the difference between a desktop NAS storage solution and a rackmount NAS storage solution? Both aim to provide reliable network storage, but they target different segments of the network attached storage market. Below, NeweggBusiness explains what the advantages of a rack-mounted NAS setup are and who can best benefit from them.

Rackmount NAS Storage Advantages

Form Factor

Similar to a rackmount server, a rackmount NAS will require a standard 19 inch or 23 inch server rack or cabinet. They can be found in the standard rack-mount form factors, including 1U, 2U, 3U, and 4U. For IT professionals that need more expandability, there are units up to 9U tall and with 50 hot-swappable drive bays. If you already have a server rack with available slots, a rackmount NAS storage solution is more space-efficient than a desktop NAS.

Performance

The hardware in rackmount NAS storage devices can be quite powerful, with many having quad-core server processors and plenty of system memory pre-installed. In addition, the processor and memory can often times be upgraded to meet your needs—should they ever change. The capability to upgrade internal hardware can help you keep costs down by not requiring you to purchase another NAS server.

Expandability

Compared to desktop NAS devices, rackmount NAS storage is much more expandable. In addition, rackmount NAS solutions are able to support a wider variety of RAID configurations for increased data storage performance and reliability.

Implementing additional NAS devices is also more space-efficient with a rackmount setup than it is with a desktop one. With a desktop NAS setup, adding another server can make cable organization more difficult and take up more office space.

Security

A rackmount NAS server is an excellent option if you have concerns about datacenter security. Some rackmount NAS servers have physical security options such as built-in bezels that prevent unauthorized access and tampering. In addition, you can implement further security measures such as locks and security doors for the entire rack to safeguard against theft and other physical threats.

Connectivity

Rack-mounted equipment in general allows for tidier cabling and better equipment organization. Many rackmount NAS servers themselves have swappable power and network components in case one fails or you need to expand connectivity. For network builders that are still using desktop servers and NAS devices, migrating to a rackmount infrastructure can save floor space and improve organization.

Conclusion

For network builders with rack-mount infrastructure already in place, rack-mounted NAS storage solutions offer more expandability and space savings than desktop NAS devices. If you plan to expand your organization’s network but do not yet have rack-mount equipment, a server rack and rackmount NAS storage can be a good starting point.

By NeweggBusiness Staff