When you want to find the perfect network storage device for home, office or enterprise, utilize NAS reviews that go beyond the information on the box or otherwise provided by the manufacturer.
The problem is that even when trying to compare NAS devices from the same company, the information provided is not always the same for each model. Why that is I have no idea, maybe different people create the data sheet for each product and they make the mistake of not using a uniform review template.
NAS reviews need to compare features side by side, apples to apples as they say. So much of the information provided is of no real use to you, and the questions you want answered are left untouched.
That is why I like comparison grids. Put a list of features down the side and put a check in the box if the model in that column has it.
While on the topic of product features, always remember that features are of little to no value to you the end user. What you are really interested in is benefits.
Like RAID NAS, for instance. How is that a feature? It makes the network storage device cost more. The benefit is that you will not lose data when a single hard drive fails.
Once you understand that, now you can look at RAID6 or dual redundancy and understand why you might be interested in paying even more yet to have that "feature". NAS reviews that just toss out lingo and rehash the marketing hype on the box are little help in making sure you end up buying the right NAS device for your needs.
As you look online for network storage review sites to aid you in your buying, spend time on sites that have "hyper-linked" industry "lingo" terms with links to a glossary or other source that will tell you what it stands for and, hopefully, what it means to you.
Additionally, look for NAS reviews that are in an appropriate category for your network storage needs.
For instance, if you are a home user looking for a way to consolidate your music library, photos and other entertainment media, spend your time on a web page that specializes in home network storage and not just generic "data" storage.
Some business storage needs can be similar to that of a home user, but the more specific the page is to what you need the more it can help you get the best product for the money you will spend.
Besides, a product that is "easy to install" for a business user with an IT guru on staff is not necessarily easy for a home user to setup.
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