What is Network Attached Storage and How Does It Work?

Rollins Duke
Published: February 6th, 2026 • 5 Min Read

Network Attached Storage: NAS is a dedicated device that helps users to store, access, and share files with multiple computers on the same network. Instead of saving all data on each computer, a NAS stores all data in one central place. It also frees up space on the computer and allows users to access files directly from the NAS.

How to Use NAS Across Multiple Devices?

NAS is a special storage device that connects to a router or network. Its main purpose is to provide centralized storage for multiple computers and devices without using the storage of each machine.

One key feature of NAS is that it does not need to be directly connected to a computer. Despite this, it allows users to access, share, and manage files efficiently. This means laptops, computers, smartphones, or other devices on the same network can use files stored on the NAS at the same time. Whether the devices are in the same office or at different locations, NAS provides centralized storage for all users.

Connect the NAS: First, connect the NAS to the router using an Ethernet cable. This allows all devices on the same network to access it.
Set up user accounts: After that, create user accounts and give permissions on the NAS so each device or user can access the files securely.
Map NAS: On Windows, press (Windows+E) and go to the “PC >> Network Drive” and select your NAS from the network to connect it.
Access files anytime: After connecting, the user can upload, download, or stream files which one is stored on the NAS without transferring files manually.

NAS

Why (NAS) Is Essential for Secure Data Management?

Centralized Storage: All files are stored in one secure location, so it is easy to manage them properly.
Data Security: It protects all files using encryption and passwords.
Regular Backups: It automatically takes backups of your files regularly basis.
Multi-User Access: Users can access files securely without compromising sensitive information.
Remote Access: Authorized users can safely access files from anywhere with an internet connection.
Scalable Storage: The user can add more storage as their files grow without any problem.
Hardware Failure: Even if a computer breaks or is stolen, all files on the NAS stay safe.

Types of Network Attached Storage (NAS)

NAS is classified into two categories, which are Attached Server and Router-Based NAS.

Attached Server

An Attached Server is directly connected to the network. It works similarly to an external hard drive but provides access to multiple users at once.

Setup:

First, connect the server to a NAS-enabled router using a Gigabit cable.
After setup, it works like a normal server and provides storage to multiple devices.

2. Supported Routers

Some routers come with USB ports so you can connect external hard drives and use them as a NAS.

Note:

Router-based NAS has fewer features compare than dedicated NAS devices.
While transferring the data, it takes too much time rather than a dedicated NAS

Pros and Cons of Establishing A NAS Setup

Pros of NAS Setup

Digital Library: NAS allows you store and manage multiple types of data in one central place. All your files are available in one storage, which makes accessing them quick and easy.
Free Up Computer: All your data, including archives and backups, can be stored on the NAS. This frees up your computer’s storage and makes it run smoothly.
Extra Copies: NAS always keeps extra copies of your files, so even if a drive fails, all the data is safe and can be recovered anytime.
Media Files: Media files like photos, videos, and movies can be streamed directly from NAS to computers, tablets, or smart TVs.
Secure File Share: You can create user accounts with specific permissions, making it easy and secure to share files with other devices on the network.
Unlimited Storage: In case of running out of storage space, drives can be replaced from a NAS setup with a new set for extended storage.

Cons of NAS Setup

File Management: While tracking of files and managing the ones residing on which drive is a difficult task, unlike usual servers, NAS does not have a display interface and can be accessed through a web interface.
Cable and Setup Considerations: Getting the right type of cables for establishing a NAS setup is sometimes difficult. Choosing the wrong cables can make it slow or not work properly.
Limited Backup Options: If you do not have a backup, your data can be lost because the standard NAS setups have a Linux-based file system. Recovering files from NAS is very hard without special tools.
Cost for High Performance: Basic NAS devices are affordable, but faster models with more storage or redundancy features are expensive.

Final Words

NAS, or Network Attached Storage, is a smart way to keep all your files in one place easily. It saves storage space on individual computers and makes sharing files over a network fast and simple. NAS devices can expand when you need more storage and also provide features to keep your data safe if a drive stops working. Whether for home use, a small office, or a bigger company, NAS is a practical, affordable, and reliable solution for storing and sharing data. The best NAS for you depends on how much storage you need, your network setup, and the speed or performance you want.