If you are looking for an operating system with network-attached storage NAS then we got you covered. Although a NAS device typically includes its own peratimg system, which can be easily accessed. But you may need an additibal operating system in your desktop or MacBook to easily store, share and access files on a large scale of nwteorks. So, in this article you will read an extensive review of Best OS for NAS along with their pros and cons. But before heading towards the listicles let’s cast a light on what NAS is and why it is important.
Essentially, you can take NAS as a power gadget to store enomuourus data and file storage needs over a network. The most adorable perk of using NAS for your small business firm is it allows access to multiple users simultaneously. Configured with varoius file sharing protocols like NFS and FTP, it is capcable of data backup, media streaming and remote access. Ranging from small to large and multi drive systems it can be used from personal to buisness level. More precisely investemnet on NAS device is worth the price. It is an integral part to use in large business enterprises, small startups, home network and media enthsisats.
Some other benefits of NAS that will never fail to intrigue you are:
Easy to Operate: Most of the OS that are compatible with NAS are easy to operate. You don’t need to be tech savvy to regulate the web interface of most of teh NAs software. However, it depends upon the user’s prefenrce and needs.
Data Access: With NAS you can share data acros large networks, which alos include mutiple types of application and cloud based networks.
Centralized Storage: Unlike traditional direct attached storage (DAS) it grants a centrelied hub for data storage hence saving your costs and file managing time.
High Availability: With redundant power supplies, data stored by NAS devices is highly accessible.
Flexiabilty: Supporting a wide range of file sharing protocols make NAS devices flexible and easily expandable with the help of other integrated devices and OS.
Lets scroll down to read top 10 best OS you can use with NAS to get rid of data corruption and managing issues.
Here is the list of the Best NAS & media server distros
- OpenMediaVault
- Universal Media Server
- EasyNAS
- TrueNAS
- Proxmox
- Unraid
- Rockstor
- OviOS
- OpenSUSE
- Kodi
OpenMediaVault
Introducing you to our first operating system that makes the best pair with NAS. This featured-packed operating system supports file-sharing protocols files such as SMB, NFS and AFP. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices and servers. For large storage capacity and continuous system running, it features RAID support. This helps in data protection and redundancy plugins for additional functionality.
OMV is programmed with Web-based administration, which provides a convenient and user-friendly interface. With the potential to handle multiple user requests and tasks simultaneously, it is an ideal choice for large-scale businesses. Another feature that makes this OC premium is its capability of platform independency. It means it can be accessed from any device running any operating system like Windows, NAS Mac, or Linux.
Coming towards its Debian Linux modular design that grants easy customization and configuration of OS. Adding on, this design allows the user to choose to install the packages he may need. Thus, making the OpenMediaVault a lightweight and efficient operating system. You will also find hard drive management tools like LVM via the administration console. Overall, OMV is a next-generation NAS solution that is based on the latest modular design and configuration.
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Debian Linux modular design
- RAID support
- Fast Browsing
- Support multiple file-sharing protocols
Cons
- Limited mobile app support
Universal Media Server
If you are looking for a System program for streaming videos from gaming PC to Tv, the Universal Media Server is the best option for you. It makes you to aerial multiple streaming files from all devices in your home more conveniently and easily. UMS comes without any hidden charges or premium packages. That means anyone can use this open-source OS for free. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy and hassle-free to connect and configure.
Plus, with its robust detection of any media file, you don’t have to put effort into manually adding files to the server. Without spending a dime, you can stream a wide range of videos, audio, and images on multiple devices, including gaming consoles, smart TV, and mobile interfaces. Moreover, this free DLNA media server supports all dynamic operating systems like Windows, Linux, and AppleOS with multiple versions.
Universal Media Server is integrated with a subtitles translator and easy to navigate web interface. In order, web administration makes managing folders and browsing dashboard activity smooth and simple. It also supports third-party plugins, which purposely expand the potential of UMS and make it more versatile and customizable. So, the bottom line is Universal Media Server is a go-to operating system for home networking needs.
Pros
- Privacy Protection
- Fast media streaming
- Multiple Files and networks support
- Live subtitles
- User-friendly interface
Cons
- Absence of remote access option
EasyNAS
Introducing another FreeNAS alternative for your streaming and storage management needs. It is a reliable option if you want to build a NAS using FreeOS with no zero or minimal data corruption rate. EasyNAS is based on the openSUSE foundation, which provides stability and flexibility for a system to run. This feature makes it the perfect pair for NAS by allowing continuous running functions. This OS can be tailored to specific requirements because it is programmed using versatile Linux distribution, making it easily customizable.
Without sugar coating, it grants strong security features which successfully protect NAS from hacking and multiple malicious attacks. Plus, you don’t need premium hardware to set up EasyNAS if you have 2Gb RAM and 20GB hard disk space. You can easily set it up. Integrated with a modern file system design called Btrfs, includes built-in data integrity and allows flexible storage pools. This also allows for online defragmentation, which allows the optimization of the file system.
Overall, this NAS OS is best for building a powerful server for small offices and homes. Its low-profile interface supports counter-manipulative features with limited menus and options for settings. Additionally, it also supports multiple network protocols like NFS, AFP, and FTP. Its modest software allows you to conveniently modify EasyNAS according to the user’s preferences and requirements.
Pros
- FreeNAS
- Based on openSUSE
- Easy to write programs
- Reliable storage disk
- Data corruption protection
Cons
- Non-intriguing web-interface
TrueNAS
TrueNAS is a part of an open-source NAS operating system featuring multiple network protocols, full disk encryption, a FreeBSD filesystem, and a dedicated storage device. Programmed with a well-documented FreeBSD operating system, provides a wide range of features like a high level of security, incredible stability, and operating system customization option. Unlike FreeNAS, which is community-supported, TrueNAS is commercially supported software.
It means the latter has a dedicated support team that provides assistance in installation and configuration. Keeping that in mind, TrueNAS is best to use for business enterprise storage as it will provide chassis management, quality assurance, and fiber channel. TrueNAS also makes cloud management easy by backing up data on multiple servers like Google and amazon cloud.
Its updated web interface can be run on multiple modular hardware platforms, including AMD’s high-core processor and NVMe SSDs. Plus, with the configuration of the latest FreeBSD 12.1, TrueNAS provides high-level data encryption and data integration vulnerabilities as compared to FreeNAS. Moreover, its dedicated storage appliance can be easily scaled up or down to tailor the exponential storage needs of any organization.
Pros
- Commercial Support
- Easy Cloud Syncing
- Data compression and encryption
- Based on the FreeBSD software
- Compatible with modular hardware
Cons
- Not preferable for graphic GUI
Proxmox
Proxmox is a Debian based Linux distribution that hosts Virtualized management server, also known as Proxmox Virtual Environment (PVE). This too is based on open-source software, that’s why it can run a variety of operating systems like windows and Linux. Its multiple features like managing virtual machines and large storage networks, make it demandable among midsize business and large enterprise segments. This highly dynamic open-source server supports dual virtualization technologies like LXM and KVM simultaneously.
Proxmox is programmed with an intelligent robust user interface that even detects when you are connecting with mobile or any other device. It will provide you with a touchable user interface in a mobile case. With its integrated unique multi-master design, multiple nodes can make changes to the central data resource simultaneously. Plus, it simplifies management by allowing administrators to make changes rather than specific nodes to make changes.
Promox VE’s based management file system allows administrators to set permissions on individual files or folders, permitting certain users to execute or edit them. By default, it is set to bridge model networks. Helping to create multiple bridges to segment the network. Storage-wise, it supports a variety of network storage devices like Fiber Channel, iSCSI, and NFS. The bottom line is Proxmox VE is ranked in second position in best server virtualization software with a globally an 8.6 rating by users.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Default web interface
- KVM and LXC virtualization
- Virtual Networking
- Managed cluster configuration
Cons
- Not beginner-friendly interface
Unraid
Unraid is purposely designed for media enthusiasts and home servers. It is one of the best RAID that can be paired up with NAS for the management of multiple hard drives. Small-scale business and IT professionals can also build their servers with Unraid as it is based on Linux distribution. It means it gives you quick access to your data, files and you can easily run programs via the application server. Contrary to traditional RAID, your data is more protected from corruption and distortion with its unstripped modular method.
Coming towards the storage method of Unraid allows a user to save a pool of multiple hard drives. Hence, making expansion easy and flexible by granting access to use SSD as a cache drive. Plus, it offers free support for three drives, but you need to purchase its service to configure up to 6 drives. Far more efficient than the ordinary RAID, as it consumes less power and gives protection against data failure. Adding on, it comes with easy configuration of the web interface. So even a beginner or nontech savvy user can easily monitor and regulate the system.
Moreover, using Unraid for your home network is like icing on the cake because it also supports virtualization setup. You can use your computer hardware without changing them and can run a virtual machine. It means that Unraid has the compatibility to support a wide range of hardware. Thus making it easy and cost-efficient for the user by growing with the user’s own storage needs. Overall, Unraid precisely trade-off performance and efficiency with great data protection.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Intriguing web interface
- Multiple hardware support
- Data protection
- Virtual machine support
Cons
- It can be pricey for some customers.
Rockstor
Rockstor is based on the openSUSE network attached storage (NAS) system and powered by a Linux and Btrfs OS. Being the major Linux distro openSUSE is a good choice if you are looking for configuration of a reliable desktop or server for your home or small business. It provides out of the box features with easy installation and configuration options, and users don’t need to pamper the Os again and again. With its user-friendly interface, the admin can easily monitor and compute the server.
The feature that is loved by many users about Rockstor is its integrated engine to tailored docker-based applications. It allows you to run advanced media streaming applications, cloud service apps, and many more. Plus, it supports file sharing protocols for various platforms like NFS and SFTP. It gives the freedom to the user to take snapshots without taking up extra space. Moreover, installing Roxkstor is like a piece of cake, as it takes a few minutes without demanding extra information and long route steps.
As it is built with Btrfs, it provides data protection and compression with some other advanced features. Thus prevents the system from external malicious attacks and anonymous viruses. Without asking for a dime it is capable of sharing large volumes of data and high pool profiles without causing service interruption. Last but not the least, it allows rockstor appliances to replicate shared content at scheduled intervals.
Pros
- Linux openSource storage
- Data compression
- Shares Replication
- Multiple file sharing protocols
- Efficient Snapshot Sharing
Cons
- Limited customization options
OviOS
To save users from unexpected data loss disasters OviOs manufacturers come with the latest solution and set up replication features. It provides an additional copy of data that can accede in the event of outrage. Snapshot capability reverts the system to its previous state and can be used to archive data for compliance or regulatory requirements. Thanks to the ZFS storage file system that allows snapshots and clones, which result in creating backups, testing and data corruption. RAID-Z software helps in data securing against disk failure.
Furthermore, it conveniently unified all management tasks easy to manage including file organization and large storage management. Another thing we love about Ovios is that you can set it up virtually and can run a virtual Time machine thus saving you costs. But can also buy hardware for more data stimulating and powerful rendering tasks. Storage-wise, it includes storage protocols like iSCSI, NFS, and FC by default. You can also manually add or remove other inevitable drivers and modules.
By default, the obvious shell command line distributes an easy and manageable way to manipulate and troubleshoot Open Source storage resources without using GUI(Graphical User Interface). Its user-friendly and easy-to-navigate web interface is designed with features and functionalities with a modern layout. Including node, volume, pool management and dashboard.
Pros
- User friendly web interface
- RAID software
- Data protection
- Easy installation
- Snapshots support
- ZFS storage system
Cons
- Limited support compared to competitors
OpenSUSE
One of the best OS for programming is OpenSUSE, as it is a free and open-source operating system built on Linux. Being sponsored by SUSE, it has two main tumbleweed and leap versions. OpenSUSE is popular among users like media enthusiasts and business people because of its easy to navigate web interface. This multi-purpose distribution comes with an all in one YaST tool that makes configuration hassle-free. Software installation via YaSt software is beginner friendly and you can manually do it without any problem. Moving on, the next feature that makes it popular is its command line interface like GUI for users who need high end vsiaul and graphics.
Adding on it supports vistualization which makes virtual machine set up easy. With its configuration for mutiple language support, it become easy for any user to install and browse. To easily get started with the operating system OpenSUSE includes automatic hardware detection. Moving on, with defaultdesktop environment of openSUSE you can enjoy variety of tools, media players and other multiple softwares. But it depnds upon the user whether he wants to keep them, or can remove unnecessary softwares.
Pros
- User friendly web-interface
- Easy to istall
- Software Repositories
- Zypper package manager
- Automatic hardware detection
Cons
- Older Kernal
- Not suggested for gamers
Kodi
Let us introduce you to an amazing tool for live streaming, and playing media applications, podcasts and music videos. More precisely, it acts like a hub to manage your favorite movie and music on a single server. With Kodi you have access to tune various media players or live streaming on T via your mobile phone. Fortunately, it is a free, open-source tool, so you can easily download and love streams without spending a dime. With a wide variety of personalization opportunities, you can regulate it according to your need with 99+ add-ons. Through Kodi’s add-ons, users can expand this media app functionality with additional features like YouTube integration, weather forecasts, and live streaming.
Customization features with sinks and add-ons make it a versatile media hub for all entertainment needs. It supports multiple localized languages and platforms like Windows, Linux, iOS, and many more. You can easily interact with Kodi with its JSON-RPc-based remote interface. Allowing you to plug in third-party tools, hence expanding the scalability and features. This award-winning media player hub is absolutely adorable with its compatibility with tablet apps, Tvs, and latest smartphones.
Coming towards its installation process, users can easily download the Kodi app from the google play store or app store. If you want to install it on MacBook or monitor, you need to visit its official website. The bottom line is to elevate your screen time experience and enhance the quality of entertainment by downloading the Kodi app. It’s an easy to install process and user friendly navigation allows the beginner or novice user to enjoy it without any problem.
Pros
- Media streaming hub
- Easy to install
- Support a wide variety of devices
- Free to use
- Based on openSource
Cons
- It does not come with its own content and media.
FAQs
What Is The Best OS To Use For Home Networks?
Universal Media server (UMS) is a best software for buildig home network beacuse it provide user-freindly web interface and easy configuration feature.
Is Installing A Free OS Worth It?
Generally speaking, it totally depnds on the user’s preference. However in our above listed OS most of the softwares are free open-sourse operating systems with multiple features.
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