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+--- Thread: What should I do (/showthread.php?tid=12223)
What should I do - Enquiries - 08-06-2025
I bought the QNAP ts 473a to get a home nas. Left synology because they were getting to business focused. I am still finding the nas approach requires IT maintenance from me. Should I have just gone with home server and storage. Can I convert the QNAP to home server? It seems using container is clunky and just more maintenance.
RE: What should I do - ed - 08-07-2025
If your goal is more of a “set and forget” home server experience, then yes, sometimes a traditional home server setup (running Windows or a simpler Linux distro with a shared folder structure) can feel more straightforward. However, it also depends on what you’re using it for — media, backups, file sharing, etc.
You can convert the TS-473A into something closer to a home server. A few options:
• Install Ubuntu or Debian directly on the NAS (QNAP allows booting into a full OS via QKVM or bare metal with a bit of tweaking). This gives you a familiar environment with access to standard desktop/server apps and fewer vendor-specific tools.
• Switch to TrueNAS SCALE or Unraid by replacing the OS entirely. This requires formatting the system and starting fresh, but these platforms are geared more towards home-lab use with easier Docker/VM support and excellent community help.
• Stick with QNAP but simplify it: You can avoid Container Station altogether and just install a few core apps like File Station, Hybrid Backup, and Multimedia Console. Avoid unnecessary services and just use it as a simple file/media server. That cuts down on maintenance significantly.
The TS-473A hardware is excellent, so you’re not stuck. You’ve got flexibility to shift toward whatever balance of simplicity vs. customization works best for you. If you prefer something that “just works” with minimal tinkering, using it more like a shared drive with scheduled backups and Plex for media might be a sweet spot without going full home server.