freeNAS (or other nas software) or home server - Can it run without Raid HDD mode?
- Thread starter dgothi
- Start date
Most can, but read the unit's manual carefully. Almost all offer to let you establish a RAID array in their case, but don't make it clear that you are not compelled to do so.
However, some DO require that you use some form of RAID. Their built-in "smarts" are set to make themselves appear to the host computer that they are one "drive", and don't ask for details. Such units may only offer you the choice of which type of RAID array you want - 0, 1, and 5 are common choices. Some will also offer JBOD, which is not really a RAID array but is often included in the systems to manage RAID. JBOD stands for "Just a Bunch of Drives", and it is a way to connect several different HDD units so they behave as one large "drive".
Even those that make RAID available but do not force it, may have a default configuration to create a RAID array from the HDD units you mount inside. So read the manual to be sure you know how to set up the configuration you want, and not just whatever default it comes with.
However, some DO require that you use some form of RAID. Their built-in "smarts" are set to make themselves appear to the host computer that they are one "drive", and don't ask for details. Such units may only offer you the choice of which type of RAID array you want - 0, 1, and 5 are common choices. Some will also offer JBOD, which is not really a RAID array but is often included in the systems to manage RAID. JBOD stands for "Just a Bunch of Drives", and it is a way to connect several different HDD units so they behave as one large "drive".
Even those that make RAID available but do not force it, may have a default configuration to create a RAID array from the HDD units you mount inside. So read the manual to be sure you know how to set up the configuration you want, and not just whatever default it comes with.
Do you just mean just having all of the HDDs combined in to one, bigger drive with no Redundancy or Parity? That's called Drive Pooling and can be done via software. The only one I am familiar with is Stablebit Drive Pool but it works very well.
Just about any OS can be used as a Server as long as you have your network shares and workgroup setup. I currently use Win 7 Pro for my server as I found WHS 2011 to be too limiting.
As far as NAS vs. Server, they are really very close cousins. A server is basically a NAS that does a little bit more than just sit there and store things. I compare them to refrigerators. You can get a generic fridge (NAS) and let it store your food or you can get one that filters and dispenses water, ice, etc. (Server).
You might get more (maybe better) help if we know what you are trying to achieve. The answers so far are all focused on specific software tools and hardware boxes. But unless we know what you really need, nobody can advise on things you did not ask about.
You said,"But unless we know what you really need, nobody can advise on things you did not ask about."
I just want to put my personal photos (family, vacation, holiday etc..), financial software data sync between PC and NAS/home server, and more. iMac and PC will connect to server. Hope I answered what you can advise me?
Thanks
You don't need anything high performance, then. I would just get a simple NAS unit from Synology or Qnap and stick some drives in it. RAID 1 would have some use here but certainly not necessary. Just use it in JBOD mode and make sure you have a backup plan in place.
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