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I never found NAS worth the money

Last year I had to help a customer in choosing among upgrading their small biz 2003 server with bigger disks, buy a new server, buy a NAS. A Windows Storage Server equipped NAS was far cheaper than a full server without being much less than a full server (about security, manageability, replication, RAID, backups and ability to be fully controller with remote desktop just like any server). It didn't require any additional CALs (so a huge cost saving vs. a second server) and allowed us to free the primary server from the file sharing tasks. So it was the perfect fit, the right way to accomodate the company growth without big licensing or configuration changes.

when small business grow up, I do see they have a requirement for NAS
Message was edited by: smax013

NAS is becoming more of a need tool for small businesses. Unless you're stuck in the 1990's technology, every business needs a NAS.
Let me show you how to use a NAS. ASUS just came out with a Wireless NAS that is a stand alone piece of technology. Now just add Bluetooth Technology to that and use mobile devices that has Bluetooth connectivity, and all you have to do is just enter the area that the NAS is in and the two systems just sync's up with one another automatically. I know this works because my Bluetooth phones and systems does it automatically when I walk into my office or home. You need a NAS even in the home, if your up to date in your home. I have customers in the Health Care Industry that is ready to use this wireless plus Bluetooth technology right now. Don't get fooled or left behind, We are Doing It!

Until NAS manufacturers agreed upon some standards in NAS hardware and firnware, NAS will only be good enough to store unimportant data which you don't mind losing.

Because when your NAS breakdown (not the hard disks) a few years later when the model is no longer in sale, your data will be as good as death because there is no way you can get another NAS and swap the hard disks in to retrieve back your data.

Meanwhile, your best bet is to purchase 2 identical NAS and keep one for backup.