A safe data storage system for small businesses is just as crucial as for big players. While they may not need the advanced versions, such as cloud, because of local operations, it is important to choose the right system depending on their requirements and budget. There are other storage devices such as pen drives, DVDs, and USBs; but, that is certainly not how you store official and confidential data as it may be easily hacked. Here are some factors which may help you make the right decision:
Ease of use: Both these systems are easy to use; however, NAS is more basic in the sense that you would not have to hire system administration professionals to take care of your data.
Functionality: Consider the number of users in your office or business space. Also, consider the scope for future expansion. Both these storage systems offer specific functionalities. Typically, if you are just two or three people operating and do not send any data to people in other locations, then NAS may work for you.
Area available: You need a big area for servers, and it should be enclosed and secured. Apart from this area, there should be enough space for computers and other things in an office. NAS typically does not require huge office areas.
Data security: Security is better in client-server than NAS. It is professionally managed by humans as well as built-in firewalls.
Scalability: Here, the plans to expand your business must be considered. However, generally speaking a system should always be scalable so that you can upgrade the existing system when you grow your business. In this aspect, NAS is not highly scalable.
Sharing ability: Checking and controlling user access is crucial for data security. At the same time, it is important to be able to send and receive files outside your network. In case of a server, you can grant or revoke rights of the user temporarily or permanently. At the same time NAS also allows control over user access.
Budget: Consider your budget and your requirements and compare both. You would need a significant investment to install servers. For servers, do consider power consumption, salaries of professional administrators, regular maintenance, and so on.