Network attached storage

[koster]

Can anyone tell me what this Dell PowerVault can do which this ReadyNAS can't?

The first is �944 (inc. VAT and delivery) and the second is �273 (inc. VAT and delivery).

http://www.lambda-tek.com/componentshop/index. pl?prodID=1523437

http://configure2.euro.dell.com/dellstore/conf ig.aspx?c=uk&cs=ukbsdt1&kc=305&l=en&oc=PVNF100 &s=bsd&sbc=rf_spider&dgc=SS&cid=5186&lid=12145 4

[ChuckFickens]

the dell one isn't a NAS in the normal sense, it is a proper full file server computer running windows server 2003, to configure it you would probably need to attach a monitor keyboard and mouse to it.

the readynas is a simple NAS storage unit, probably running Linux of some sort and will be configured via a straight forward web page from your normal computer.

If all you want is network storage i would go for the readynas, if you want a full blown server then get the dell.

p.s. probably about �400 - �500 of the cost of the dell one is the license for windows!

[koster]

Thank you!

So what can a file server do that a network storage unit can't?

I mean, once configured and hidden away in a cupboard, how would we notice the difference?

I also read on the description for the ReadyNAS that files can be accessed over the Internet. Could we say share an access database between remote offices?

[ACtheTROLL]

it's an oranges and apples question ....
both have processors - both run HDD and network controllers
( the nas possibly dhcp, ftp
the nas attaches to the network (clue in name!)
(max 500Gb + resilliance)

the dell jobbie as chuck says is a server and IS the network (if you want it to be)
and comes with 3 year guarantee - an expensive server operating system and real raid.

for file sharing if you stick the nas box redside you'll get your bum bitten off in minures (no security)

the server can sit redside with a bit more safety ... but internet file sharing isn't a good idea with either setup if it's your only machine ....

a book and a bit of luck and you could probably set up a closed office network

but if that database is in any way important sticking it on the internet isn't a good idea - you need a vpn, dmz, blah blah

given your question ... you need to get someone in to setup and configure the whole system

I love the line ... hidden away in a cupboard, how would we notice the difference?

[ACtheTROLL]

the days of an NT server being walled in are long gone

[koster]

Thanks very much.

When you say "if you stick the NAS box redside", do you mean not protected by a firewall?

How do I set it up so it's not "redside"?