Why Should You Use A NAS Appliance Instead Of Gateway?

If you’re considering using NAS to enable your SAN, you may be wondering whether to use an appliance or a gateway. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each so that you can make an informed decision for your business.

What Is NAS Storage Solutions?

NAS storage solutions are a type of storage that is connected to a network and provides file-based data storage services to clients on that network. A SAN, or storage area network, is a type of network that connects storage devices such as hard drives and tape drives so that they can be shared by servers. 

When it comes to choosing a NAS storage solution for your business, you have two options: an appliance or a gateway. Let’s take a look at the Pros and Cons of each so that you can make an informed decision for your business.

NAS Appliances Pros: 

– Applies updates automatically: With an appliance, updates are typically automatic which can save you time and ensure that your system is always up-to-date. 

– Easy to Use: Appliances are usually easy to use and don’t require extensive technical knowledge to set up and maintain. 

– All-in-one solution: Appliances offer an all-in-one solution that can save you money by eliminating the need to purchase separate components such as disks and controllers. 

 NAS Appliances Cons: 

 – Limited Flexibility: Appliances can be inflexible and may not be able to keep up with the changing needs of your business. 

 – Locked into one vendor: When you purchase an appliance, you’re usually locked into using that particular vendor’s products and services. This can be costly if you ever need to switch vendors. 

Gateway Pros: 

 – More Flexible: Gateways are more flexible than appliances and can easily be adapted to the changing needs of your business. 

 – Not Locked into one vendor: With a gateway solution, you’re not locked into using one particular vendor’s products and services. This gives you the freedom to switch vendors if necessary without incurring any additional costs. 

Gateway Cons: 

 – Requires more technical knowledge: Gateways require more technical knowledge to set up and maintain than appliances. 

 – Manual updates: With a gateway solution, updates are typically manual which can take up more of your time. 

Conclusion:

If you’re considering using NAS storage solutions to enable your SAN, we recommend using an appliance over a gateway. Appliances are easier to use and require less technical knowledge to set up and maintain. Additionally, most appliances come with built-in features such as automatic updates which can save you time in the long run.