Netgear ReadyNAS Network Attached Storage RAID

Not all storage device are created equal, that is the first thing to remember about the ReadyNAS.  This NAS drive, like most, is an unobtrusive depository for files, but the flexible way that it serves up the data in those files sets it apart from other types of attached storage and is crucial to its interoperability with other network devices.  

The ReadyNAS features four SATA drive bays, running in tandem when populated, equipped with its own embedded operating system to work independently of other servers and/or clients on the network.  The hot swappable drives can be operated as RAID storage (TMP1) for easy data recovery in case of a drive failure.   

The built-in operating system features a robust media server, and ReadyNAS is equipped with Gigabit ethernet connection to speedily save many-gigabyte HDTV programs.  USB ports makes available printers, USB hard disks, and memory sticks anywhere on your network.    

Out of the Box

The ReadyNAS is available without disks, or already populated at up to 3 terabytes of storage, but expect to sacrifice some of that space for redundancy.  Although devoid of some additional functions often found in traditional servers, the NAS is the perfect media storage device.  I opted for the hard drive pre-installed model as the price is competitive to buying the drives separately, and it's instantly ready to use, no need to over think the RAID thing.  ReadyNAS works with hard drives of same capacity. In its default mode, if the drives are different sizes, it effectively treats them all as identical to the smallest installed.  

If you ever hoped for a central file storage of your multimedia files, the ReadyNAS will thrill you.  It supports UPnP devices, as well as various other media clients with support for NFS and SMB shares.  I use it with Sonos, TViX-HD Media Player, and various home PCs.  All are able to access files on the ReadyNAs with ease.  

Performance 

I don't have hard performance specifications for the ReadyNAs, but I don't ponder it much.  Its proven capable of everything I need, and contains the most valuable of assets to my entertainment system.  Configuration is minimal, setup is straight forward, and utility is beyond the scale.

Conclusion

There is not much left to say, other than the ReadyNAS is the single most valuable investment under my roof.  It has simplified file management, and everyone knows where to find their music and movies.  The only problem I can foresee is that we'll soon need another.    

-KC