Storage servers are typically for work environments but QNAP’s latest device is likely to be seen in homes too.
Network Attached Storage (NAS) Servers are a modern solution to a modern problem, meaning families or businesses who want to share files between computers with ease should take note.
The suave-looking server can be set up anywhere in the house or office to be connected over a local network, allowing files to be drag-and-dropped between the server and any of the computers on the network.
The TS-469 PRO, QNAP’s latest model in the TS-469 range, is the best yet. The sleek black look works wonders for the server, making sure it wouldn’t be out of place in a home entertainment setup.
The four bays for the hard drives are placed on the front and have much better tactile functions than previous iterations, while the spring-loaded slots make it easy to insert and remove either 2.5” or 3.5” hard drives for a maximum of 12TB.
The server itself has great tested read and write speeds of 132.4MB/s and 129.3MB/s respectively. It also supports cloud storage backup with software like Amazon S3 and ElephantDrive.
NAS Servers exist because of RAID, a technology which combines several disk drives into a single unit. Different levels of RAID provide varying levels of protection against errors and failures. The TS-469 PRO offers a number of these levels to suit the demands and needs of the user.
The interface of the software is one of the only weaknesses found with QNAP’s server. Somewhat overcomplicated, especially for home consumers, the interface sometimes feels a little clumsy.
Pros:
· Great read and write speeds – doesn’t take very long to access the files you need.
· A number of ports on the back include 4 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.0, 2 SATA, 2 LAN and an HDMI slot. The range of ports helps cover all possible uses for the server.
· Advanced folder permissions – Make sure the files you want to share are the only ones shared which is great for keeping confidential files private.
· The RAM is upgradable from 1GB to 3GB to speed up file transfers.
· Impressive form factor so it looks good wherever you want to put it. The LCD screen and LED lights on the front, combined with the sturdy practicality of the housing, leave a wonderful impression.
· Backup server capabilities are numerous. Options include cloud servers, Apple Time Machine support, an iTunes server, and remote replication.
· Quiet even during heavy usage. Clocking in at roughly 37db, the NAS server keeps a low profile and is barely heard at most times.
· Can be used to share and mount ISO images. This is great to make sure you have copies of any old CDs or DVDs.
Cons:
· Somewhat more expensive than alternative options such as the Synology DiskStation DS412+, which has otherwise similar properties.
· Doesn’t come packaged with any hard drives. This isn’t necessarily terrible though as it allows you to make your own choices in terms of size and capacity. However it does add another step in getting the server running.
· The interface doesn’t quite live up to expectations with occasional odd design choices and unintuitive processes.
If you’ve got a small business or a tech-savvy home, a NAS server is the perfect option to keep everyone connected.
QNAP’s TS-469 PRO is one of the best servers available right now with a slick presence and quick access-speeds.
While there are some issues with the interface and the price, the overall quality of the device more than make up for it.
Score: 4.5/5
