Setting up a NAS: How to do it right

A NAS, or Network Attached Storage, is a minimal PC that can have a certain amount of storage built into it in the form of hard drives. You can then access these hard drives over the network and store or read data on them. A NAS is especially good for media and backup storage.

How to set up a NAS the right way

Of course, in order for the NAS to work properly on your network, you need to set it up first.

1. The first thing you need to do is install the hard drives into the NAS. Make sure they are the right inch size so you have enough space in the NAS. Generally, the installation depends on the NAS version. However, most NAS nowadays are equipped with a simple slide-in system. However, you may need to take the screwdriver to hand.
2. Now you should attach all the cables to the NAS. The most important thing here, besides the power plug, is of course the LAN cable. It is best to connect the NAS directly to the router.
3. To find the NAS in the network, you need the IP address that it has received from the router. You can find the IP under "Connected Devices" in your router settings. Many manufacturers also offer a software with which you can find the NAS in the network.
4. When you now enter the IP address in the browser, you come to the setup page of the NAS. From here on, it depends on the manufacturer how to further set up the NAS. Just follow the instructions of the wizard.