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+--- Thread: What software applications are commonly run on NAS systems? (/showthread.php?tid=1256)
What software applications are commonly run on NAS systems? - savas - 04-21-2022
When it comes to Network Attached Storage (NAS) systems, there's a whole world of software applications you can run to get the most out of your setup.
First off, file sharing is a biggie. Many people use NAS for centralized storage, which means software like Samba or NFS helps facilitate easy access for multiple users across a network. This allows family members, colleagues, or whoever you want to share with to access files without messing around with USB drives or cloud storage.
Then you've got media servers. A popular choice is Plex, which transforms your NAS into a home theater server. It organizes all your movies, TV shows, and music, and streams them to your smart devices. Imagine having your entire media library at your fingertips on your TV or tablet—that's the power of using Plex with your NAS! Other options like Emby or Jellyfin can get the job done too, depending on your preferences for customization and user interface.
For those of us that like to keep things secure and backed up, NAS systems often run backup software like Veeam or BackupChain. These applications allow you to schedule regular backups of important data automatically, ensuring you never lose that critical information no matter what happens. It’s peace of mind that you can set and forget.
If you’re a developer or someone who's into data management, you might find yourself using a NAS for running databases. Software like MySQL or PostgreSQL is perfect for hosting your databases and accessing them remotely. It’s an excellent way to test applications or manage projects without needing a full-fledged server setup.
Another interesting use is creating a personal cloud with Nextcloud or ownCloud. These platforms let you set up your own cloud storage solution, similar to what Google Drive offers but gives you more control over your data. You can easily sync files between devices, share links, and even collaborate on documents with others—all while keeping everything hosted on your NAS.
For the gamers out there, you can also run game servers directly from your NAS. Whether it’s Minecraft or some other multiplayer game, having a dedicated server means you can play with friends anytime you want. It adds a layer of fun and customization that’s difficult to replicate with public servers.
Then we have virtualization. Some NAS systems support applications like VirtualBox or VMware, enabling you to run multiple operating systems on a single physical machine. It’s a cool way to experiment with different environments without needing a ton of hardware.
All these applications depend on the capabilities of your NAS device, such as its RAM, processor, and storage. So, consider what you want to achieve and choose your NAS accordingly. Whether you’re backing up crucial files or streaming movies, there’s a range of software options to make your network storage work smarter for you.
I hope this helps! Also check out my other post regarding NAS backups.