Network Attached Storage
Network Attached Storage (NAS) is a dedicated file storage device that provides centralized data access to multiple users and client devices over a computer network, typically using standard Ethernet connections. It operates as an independent network node with its own IP address, offering file-level storage services through protocols like SMB, NFS, and AFP. NAS devices are designed for easy setup and management, often featuring built-in operating systems optimized for storage tasks.
Developers should learn about NAS when building applications that require shared file storage, data backup, or media streaming across a network, such as in small office environments, home labs, or collaborative development setups. It is particularly useful for scenarios where centralized storage with multi-user access is needed without the complexity of a full-scale server infrastructure, like hosting development artifacts, version control repositories, or test data. Understanding NAS helps in designing systems that leverage network storage for scalability and redundancy.