NAS Recommendation to buy for

[billykris2528]

Hi, I would like to ask your recommendation in buying NAS.
I’m completely new with NAS storage system and doesn’t have any experience in IT fields, so I can say I’m completely blind with all these things 

I currently use Google Drive to store my work-related files. 
Now I’m considering to buy NAS to replace it.
Primarily, I would like to use NAS to:
1. Store my work related things so I can access it anywhere, event without the need to bring my laptop.
2. Allow my team to access work related files anywhere through a shared link (without the need to create account for them), just like a simple link sharing in google drive.
3. Backing up photos & videos from my phone so I can have more capacity in my phone.
4. Storing & securing my client’s personal data from breach, but I still can access them when I need to.

I’ve done some research, but still can’t figure out which NAS suitable for me, especially considering whether I can manage the OS or not (which also a variable to come for my decision).
At first, I consider BeeStation, but it only has 1-bay which is not safe for my files if something happens to it. Then, I’m considering a 2-Bay NAS from Synology or QNAP or TerraMaster.

Please give me a recommendation on which brand/type of NAS that might be suitable for me and why?
And also from those 3 brands, which OS is the easiest one to use, but still offer good capabilities & function? I’m also open to any other brand & type suggestion.

[ed]

Thank you for sharing your needs and concerns! Based on what you’ve described, I recommend looking at Synology NAS models powered by either Intel Celeron or AMD Ryzen processors. Here's why they might be a great fit for you:

Why Synology?
Ease of Use: Synology's DSM (DiskStation Manager) operating system is one of the most user-friendly NAS platforms. It offers simple, intuitive interfaces for file sharing, backup, and remote access, which is perfect for someone new to NAS systems.
File Sharing: DSM makes it easy to create shared links for files or folders, much like Google Drive, without requiring others to create accounts.
Security and Updates: Synology is known for its quick and consistent updates to address vulnerabilities, giving you peace of mind for securing client and personal data.
Mobile Backups: Synology provides apps like DS File or Synology Photos to automatically back up your photos and videos from your phone.
Recommended Models
Synology DS423+ (Intel Celeron)

A powerful 4-bay NAS with enough room for future expansion.
Great for file sharing, backups, and storing personal and work-related files.
Ideal for small teams and secure data handling.
Synology DS923+ (AMD Ryzen R1600)

A step up in performance for advanced needs, like managing more users or heavier workloads.
Supports additional features like 10GbE network upgrades if you want more speed later on.
Why Intel Celeron or AMD Ryzen?
Both processors provide excellent performance for multitasking, and their hardware-accelerated encryption ensures your data is safe without compromising speed. This makes them reliable for your needs, including client data security and photo backups.

Storage Suggestion
For your use, a 2-bay model might suffice if you’re just starting (e.g., DS223+). However, for added safety and future-proofing, I recommend a 4-bay NAS (like the DS423+) with RAID 5 or SHR for redundancy, ensuring no data loss even if one drive fails.

Why Not TerraMaster or QNAP?
While these brands also offer solid options, Synology tends to have a more polished and beginner-friendly OS. Additionally, Synology is quicker to patch vulnerabilities, which is important for securing client data.

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[billykris2528]

Dear Ed,

Thank you so much for your reply.
Now, I will go with DS423+ based on your suggestion.

Got a few more additional questions:
1. I watch a couple of the videos about Plex Media Server. Will I be able to build one with DS423+ while using that NAS to do all the feature i need above? And also do I need to upgrade its RAM? does 2GB sufficient enough to run all those feature?
2. Is it suggested to install additional M.2 NVME SSD for my work needs & for the Plex Media?
3. For data backup, from what I search, I can use DAS. Any type or brand you can recommend for backup when I use DS423+? especially the one that is budget friendly.