I wanna get a NAS for backing up my files and maybe storing some shows and movies I have downloaded. Is it worth it to get a purpose built NAS or is slapping FreeNAS on a used optiplex easy enough? Also is there a big difference in power draw?

  • dpg [he/him]
    ·
    3 years ago

    I've gone both routes of having a custom built NAS with, I think 20TBs of raw storage using ZFS (both on Ubuntu and TrueNAS/FreeNAS at different times) and having a Synology of 40TBs currently.
    Basically you need to ask if you're doing this for a learning exercise or want something that "just works". I am a total nerd and enjoyed playing around with ZFS, docker and everything in between, but it's a real investment and when stuff does break (it does) you're on the hook.
    The Synology on the other hand is low power and very painless, I've had amazing uptime on it with very few hiccups. You do pay a price premium for a NAS like a Synology, but I think it's worth it for some people when you get the time savings and extra goodies like HyperBackup or QuickConnect.
    A good medium ground for a decent amount of cash (and what I wished I went with) is a FreeNAS/TrueNAS Mini - gives you TrueNAS on a appliance.
    Whatever you decide I can help you out, I have good books on ZFS for sure.