Network-attached storage (NAS) is a data storage device which connects directly to a computer network, providing access to data files over the network.

A NAS is effectively a special purpose file server, dedicated to managing access to its files.  It provides a number of capabilities which optimise the speed of file access, provide redundancy and increased reliability of data access, and data security.  Most NAS devices also provide a range of applications such as media servers, backup facilities, content management, etc.

The use of a NAS avoids the complexity, expense and performance compromises of having to use a general purpose desktop or laptop computer to store and provide access to digital music files.

©Wayne Butcher