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Best network attached storage
If you have multiple PCs on your network, you're a candidate for a network-attached storage device. Some NAS devices simple act as a shared volume for backing up and sharing files across your network, while others let you share a printer among your networked PCs. Some devices include an iTunes or a BitTorrent server, and some offer online storage. You'll find NAS devices with a single drive and those with multiple drives that allow for greater data protection or higher capacities. Here's a list of our current favorites.
Synology Disk Station DS-107+
8.3 Excellent (reviewed 5/8/08)
The Synology DS107+ is the most sophisticated NAS device we've tested to date. Its more advanced features require some networking know-how, but the included software and Web interface go a long way in helping you tackle the various offerings. You can't beat all the features you get for the price.
Read review of the Synology Disk Station DS-107+
NetGear ReadyNAS NV+ Network Storage (1TB, 4 x 250GB)
8.0 Excellent (reviewed 10/11/07)
The Netgear ReadyNAS NV+ offers a lot in the way of features and performance, which is good, because it's expensive.
Read review of the NetGear ReadyNAS NV+ Network Storage (1TB, 4 x 250GB)
Iomega StorCenter Pro NAS 150d (2TB)
7.8 Very good (reviewed 4/19/07)
The Iomega StorCenter Pro 150d is a network-attached storage drive squarely targeted at the small- and home office user. With Gigabit Ethernet, USB port, and generous capacity for a fair price, this NAS drive should satisfy those users.
Read review of the Iomega StorCenter Pro NAS 150d (2TB)
HP Media Vault Pro mv2040 (500GB)
7.8 Very good (reviewed 10/13/06)
HP's Media Vault is a storage drive that offers an easy way to back up files from your networked PCs, along with the ability to stream your digital media files to other networked devices in your home. We really like this drive.
Read review of the HP Media Vault Pro mv2040 (500GB)
Western Digital MyBook World Edition NAS server
7.5 Very good (reviewed 5/14/07)
The Western Digital MyBook World Edition is a simple-to-use NAS drive that makes remote access and file sharing easy for even beginners. Only its slow data transfer speed gives us pause.
Read review of the Western Digital MyBook World Edition NAS server
Drobo DroboShare
7.3 Very good (reviewed 4/15/08)
For those bemoaning the lack of network support on last year's innovative Drobo drive, DroboShare offers Gigabit Ethernet and as simple and straightforward a setup as we found with the direct-attached Drobo.
Read review of the Drobo DroboShare
D-Link DNS-323 2-Bay Network Storage Enclosure
7.1 Very good (reviewed 4/9/08)
The D-Link DNS-323 2-Bay Network Storage Enclosure is a comprehensive solution to extend your network storage and functionality. It offers great performance and, despite its long list of features, remains very easy to use.
Read review of the D-Link DNS-323 2-Bay Network Storage Enclosure
