Enabling file protocols for each share is also a pain (AFP, FTP or NFS, for example). Individual shares have separate pages for each protocol. The benefit of doing things this way is you have absolute control of who has access to what and in which way. The downside is if you’ve got half a dozen shares then there’s a heck of a lot of clicking to be done.
USB interfacing supports a useful range of peripherals
The browser and share-layout issues, combined with the FTP reliability and difficult Raid changes, all suggest a sizable overhaul of the interface is needed. A proper manual is also needed, since we were simply directed towards the business oriented RNDX4000’s literature to get solutions, which reinforces the impression that the RNDX400E was rushed out the door.
Verdict
It’s quite pricey for a Nas that lacks business features like Windows Active Directory, but the fast transfer speeds, decent range of free add-ons a three year warranty sweeten the deal. Overall, a very fast and expensive enthusiast’s Nas and while we’re not a fan of its handle or interface, the add-on software offers real and value speed freaks can rejoice. ®
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COMMENTS
NetGear ReadyNAS support
I was amused to read about all the initial setup issues you had - seems typical of user's experiences with the ReadyNAS systems.
But the real issue is NetGear's support. There doesn't appear to be any - though I note that jberger seems happy with it - maybe I've been going to the wrong places. All I could find was a user forum with endless problem reports and nearly all support coming from other users - very little visible activity from NetGear people at all.
So unless other users can say 'you get great support by going to xxxxx' I would advise against having anything to do with ReadyNAS systems at all.
Jberger - how and where did you get support?
NAS crazy
I struggle to understand the cost of even the most basic 4-disk NAS. So much so, I've just put together my own DIY 4-bay NAS based on the Atom and an ITX form case. Total cost - £200 inc VAT + delivery with a copy of FreeNAS. Not to mention it includes all the features this ReadyNAS is missing. Performs better, too.
Cost
I struggle with the cost of this unit when I can get a superior QNAP TS-439 Pro for similar or less money with all of it's features. Such a device has a lot going for it, is ready to go out of the box and is simple enough for anyone to understand. Low power consumption as well.
You need to remember that these are designed for minimum fuss, and have hot swappable drives etc. I doubt that a £200 DIY device would have equal capability with the QNAP although I'm willing for you to list it's spec and prices and prove me wrong.
I used to run an old tower as my file server etc using Ubuntu, webmin etc but got the arse with it's noise and power consumption although speed and uptime were never an issue. I wouldn't give up my QNAP for any DIY box though.
It's storage
It's storage, therefore it must be expensive.
Great NAS, too bad it gives you Bloody Knuckles
I've been bitten by the NVX as well, it's hard to imagine how stamped fan guard made it into production. It's nice that they included a handle, but why add the cheese grater style metal exactly in center of the handle.
We got a number of the NVX units in production with very good results. ReadyNAS builds a top quality product, but it is priced above most of it's competition. A low street price and less flesh hungry design would be a nice change.
To all those who compare these units with DIY JBOD units are missing the point. These units just work, are well supported and very well built business class devices.
