We use cookies to help us improve our webpage. Please read our Cookie Policy .

Knowledge Base

Compatibility
ASUSTOR College
Download Center
Online Help
Online Support Form

All »

Q: What happens if my NAS hard drive fails?

2024-09-10


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

Even if an ASUSTOR NAS hard drive fails, data is usually not lost immediately as long as you have properly configured the protection mechanism of RAID, a data storage technology that provides data redundancy in case of hard drive failure.

Steps to take after a hard disk failure
  • Receive a system alarm: When a hard disk fails, an alarm is usually sent to alert you.
  • Replace the hard disk: Replace the failed hard disk as soon as possible. most models of ASUSTOR NAS support hot-swapping, so you can replace the hard disk without shutting down the computer, and the system will start rebuilding the data automatically.
  • Monitor rebuild progress: You can monitor the rebuild progress in ADM.
Impact of Different RAID Levels
  • RAID 0: Increased read and write speeds, but no data redundancy, any hard disk failure will cause all data to be lost.
  • RAID 1: Data is fully copied to another hard disk. When one drive fails, the system automatically recovers data from the mirrored drive.
  • RAID 5: Data and parity information is spread across multiple hard disks. It can tolerate the failure of one hard disk.
  • RAID 6: Spreads data and two sets of parity information across multiple hard disks. Tolerates two hard disk failures.
  • RAID 10: Combines RAID 0 and RAID 1 for performance and fault tolerance.
Caution
  • Data Security: During the rebuild period, please avoid excessive operations on the NAS to avoid affecting the rebuild progress.
  • Professional assistance: If you are not familiar with RAID rebuild, we recommend you to seek assistance from ASUSTOR customer service or professionals.
*Online Resources:https://www.asustor.com/online/College_topic?topic=251

Q: Does NAS require hard drive hibernation?

2024-08-16


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

Depending on usage and personal needs, the hardware hibernation function can bring energy savings and extend the life of the hard drive.
Advantages of hard drive hibernation
  • Save power: The hard drive is one of the components that consumes the most power in a NAS. Enabling hard drive hibernation can effectively reduce power consumption.
  • Extend the life of the hard disk: Reducing the operating time of the hard disk can reduce the wear and tear of the hard disk and extend its life.
  • Reduce noise: The hard disk will produce noise when it is running, and the noise can be reduced in sleep mode.
When is it appropriate to enable hard drive hibernation?
  • NAS usage is infrequent: If your NAS is mainly used for backing up data and the access frequency is infrequent, enabling hard drive hibernation can save power.
  • Want to reduce noise: If you are sensitive to the operating noise of your NAS, enabling drive hibernation can reduce the noise.

Q: Does a NAS need a UPS?

2024-08-16


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply System) Although UPS is not a necessity, it is a very good investment for users who value data security and service availability. If you are very concerned about the data security of your NAS, it is recommended that you install a UPS.

Why do you need UPS?
  • Data protection: When there is a sudden power outage, the UPS can provide short-term power, allowing the NAS enough time to shut down safely to avoid data damage.
  • Uninterrupted service: For services that need to run 24/7, UPS ensures that the NAS provides uninterrupted service.
  • Avoid hard drive damage: A sudden power outage can cause hard drive damage, and a UPS can reduce this risk.
When is UPS needed?
  • Frequent power outages: If power outages occur frequently where you live or work, a UPS is recommended.
  • Data of high importance: If your NAS stores a large amount of important data, such as company secrets, personal files, etc., it is recommended to use UPS.
  • Need high availability: If your NAS provides critical services, such as file servers, monitoring systems, etc., it is recommended to use UPS.

ASUSTOR NAS support for UPS
  • Safe Mode: Safely unmount all storage in the event of a power outage and automatically restart the NAS when power is restored.
  • Shutdown mode: Shut down directly when power is off.

Q: Does the NAS need to be shut down to replace the hard drive?

2024-09-10


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

1.Due to the hardware structure design of the following series, they do not support hot-swapping of hard drives. Please power off the device before replacing the hard drives:
AS10,AS11,AS31,AS32,AS50,AS60,AS66,FS67

2.All models with M.2 slots do not support hot-swapping of M.2 SSDs. Please power off the device before replacing the SSDs.

*Enter the webpage and check Hot Swap to view supported models.

Q: Security Reminder

2024-03-08


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

ASUSTOR has recently noticed an increase in ransomware attacks.


ASUSTOR strongly recommends taking the following actions to ensure your data is secure again:

  • Change your password.
  • Use a strong password.
  • Change default HTTP and HTTPS ports. Default ports are 8000 and 8001 respectively.
  • Turn off Terminal/SSH and SFTP services and other services you do not use.
  • Enable the AbuseIPDB risk detection greylist.
  • Make regular 3-2-1 backups and ensure backups are up to date.

Keep your ASUSTOR NAS up to date as updates provide security fixes.

Click here to read more about how to protect your data from ransomware.

Q: How do I log in to the NAS on my cell phone?

2024-06-07


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

To log in to your ASUSTOR NAS using your cell phone, you can use the official apps provided by ASUSTOR, such as
  • AiMaster: NAS Installation without the hassle! AiMaster allows you to initialize and activate your NAS right from your cell phone, whether it's adding new users, downloading and installing more NAS Apps, updating ADM, adjusting NAS hardware and ADM settings, or checking the real-time status of the system, AiMaster can help you get it done with ease.
Using AiMaster - ASUSTOR NAS

  • AiFoto 3: The new AiFoto 3 provides a simpler interface with many new features, offering various ways to browse and backup NAS photos on AiFoto 3: Timeline, Smart Albums, Folders, as well as faster and more convenient automatic uploading of photos from your cell phone to backup in real time, and sharing them with different users by creating links to browse and manage photos. It's so easy to browse and manage photos, letting you back up and share your favorite moments at any time. *Requires Photo Gallery 3
Photo Gallery 3 and AiFoto 3 - ASUSTOR NAS

  • AiData: NAS file manager is now on mobile devices. With AiData, you can intuitively browse and manage the data on your NAS. AiData also combines the file sharing function, allowing you to share the files on your NAS to other NAS devices or cloud services through your mobile device, AiData puts your data at your fingertips.
Using AiData - ASUSTOR NAS

  • AiVideos: AiVideos brings you a smooth mobile movie watching experience, playing your favorite movies on your NAS without waiting for download. You can enjoy HD video streaming in one click, and you can even choose multi-language subtitles to match your viewing, or even choose different channels to enjoy multi-national original sound reproduction, the movie theater is in your hands.
Introduction to AiVideos - ASUSTOR NAS

  • AiMusic: Allow mobile devices to stream music from your NAS. Easily select the music you want to listen to from your categorized music collection and let music streaming surround your daily life!
Introduction to AiMusic - ASUSTOR NAS

  • AiSecure: It's easier than ever to keep track of everything in your home, so you'll be able to see everything at a glance. In addition to real-time monitoring of what's happening in the places you care about, proactive push notifications can be sent to your mobile device at the same time as the event, so you can keep track of everything.
Using AiSecure - ASUSTOR NAS

Q: Does the NAS have to be connected to a router?

2024-02-22


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

An ASUSTOR NAS does not have to be connected to a router, but usually it is part of a direct connection to the network. This is because the NAS needs to be available on the network so that users can access the data on the NAS over the network.
If your ASUSTOR NAS is connected directly to a computer or other device, rather than to a router or switch, only users connected to that device will be able to access the NAS, limiting the availability of the NAS and limiting it to a single device.
In general, it is more common to connect an ASUSTOR NAS to a router or switch. This way, all devices connected to the same network can access the NAS, making it easier to share and manage data. By connecting to a router, the NAS can also be connected to the Internet, allowing you to access the data on the NAS through remote access.

Q: How to create a NAS folder shortcut on my desktop?

2024-02-22


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

To create a shortcut to the ASUSTOR NAS on your desktop, you can follow the steps below:
  1. Find the IP address or network path of the NAS: First, make sure you know the IP address or network path of the ASUSTOR NAS. You can find this information in the NAS's management interface or the router's management interface.
  2. Create a shortcut: On your desktop, right click and select "Create New Shortcut".
  3. Enter the path to the NAS: In the shortcut creation dialog box, enter the IP address or network path of the NAS. For example, if your NAS IP address is 192.168.1.100, you can enter \\192.168.1.100.
  4. Name the shortcut: Give the shortcut an appropriate name, such as "ASUSTOR NAS".
  5. Done: Click OK or Done and a shortcut to ASUSTOR NAS will be created on your desktop.

Q: Do I have to format my NAS hard drive?

2024-09-10


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

After installing a new hard drive, there is usually an initialization setup program that will guide you through the process of formatting the drive. This will be done in the NAS setup interface, or you may need to log in to the NAS through an administrator account. 

Q: Can I install software on my NAS?

2024-02-22


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

Yes, ASUSTOR NAS is a storage device that supports the installation of software. ASUSTOR offers an operating system called ADM (ASUSTOR Data Master), which is Linux-based and allows users to install a variety of applications and software, including but not limited to file sharing, media servers, download tools, monitoring software, and more. Users can browse, install and manage these software through ADM's App Central. This allows the ASUSTOR NAS to be used not only for file storage, but also for a variety of applications depending on the user's needs.

Q: M.2 SSD Drive Installation Guide For ASUSTOR AS67 Series NAS

2024-02-22


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

For all AS67 series NAS, before adding or removing M.2 SSDs, please read the following notes carefully.
  • NAS and M.2 SSDs utilize high precision components and electronic connector technology. To avoid voiding the warranty during the product warranty period, we recommend that you:
✓ M.2 SSDs compatible with the AS67 series can be purchased at your local store or on the Huawei Accessories website  (https://www.asustor.com/service/compatibility) for purchase.
✓ Please use two identical models of SATA 3 interface or PCIe (NVMe) interface for best access performance.
✓ If you are not familiar with upgrading your computer's M.2 SSD, do not install the M.2 SSD yourself.
  • Adding or removing M.2 SSDs on your own can cause NAS failures or accidents due to broken slots and modules or misconnections. In this case, repair costs will apply.
  • Be careful not to cut your fingers on the sharp edges of the NAS's M.2 SSDs, internal components, or circuit boards.
  •  ASUSTOR does not guarantee that third-party M.2 SSDs will be compatible with NAS.
  • Before adding or removing an M.2 SSD, be sure to turn off the NAS and peripherals, and disconnect all accessories and cables.
  • To prevent damage to your M.2 SSD from electrostatic discharge, follow the instructions below:
✓ Avoid using your computer in areas that tend to generate static electricity, such as carpeting.
✓ Before adding or removing an M.2 SSD, eliminate static by touching metal objects outside the NAS. Do not touch the metal parts inside your computer.
  • When inserting the M.2 SSD into the slot, do not misdirect it. Doing so may damage the module or the slot, or even cause a fire on the circuit board.
  • Use a screwdriver that matches the size of the screw.
  • Do not remove or loosen screws not designated for removal.

Preparation Tools
  • Phillips screwdriver.

Installation Guide

1.Chassis Removal
Select Shutdown in the ADM menu to turn off the NAS.


Remove all cables and power cords from the NAS.


Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the top cover screws and stow them for later installation.



Remove the cap by pressing the side of the cap with both hands and gently pushing it outward.

2.Installing an M.2 Solid State Drive
As shown in the figure below, install the SSD in the order of the numbers on the M.2 board.
As an example, place the M.2 SSD diagonally and align the notches on the metal connector of the M.2 SSD with the notches in the slot. Insert the M.2 SSD into the slot, making sure the connector is fully inserted and the M.2 SSD is pressed down.


As shown in the figure below, pull the lever outward. While holding the lever, press down on the M.2 SSD and release the lever to secure the M.2 SSD.


Repeat the above steps to install additional M.2 SSDs into additional slots as shown below.


3.Putting back the chassis
Put the top cover back on and tighten the screws.


Connect the NAS's power cord and all other cables, and then turn on the NAS.

appendix
1.Easy Troubleshooting

Q: If you can't boot up after installing a new M.2 SSD.

A: Please follow the steps below to check one by one：
1. The light/audio display messages are normal. 
2. If your NAS does not recognize the M.2 SSD or does not boot up properly, please make sure a compatible M.2 SSD is installed, and reinstall the M.2 SSD to make sure it is installed correctly. 
3. If it still does not work, please remove the newly installed M.2 SSD and reboot the NAS to see if it works properly. 
4. If the above steps still cannot solve your problem, please contact your local dealer or ASUSTOR customer service.

2.Contact ASUSTOR Technical Support

You can contact us in the following ways:
1. Online Technical Support Ticket: https://member.asustor.com/
2. ASUSTOR Online Forum: http://forum.asustor.com/

Q: Severe Vulnerability Detected - Update Surveillance Center Now

2024-02-07


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

An emergency update is being pushed for Surveillance Center in response to a severe vulnerability detected in the software that could potentially allow an attacker to gain control elevated privileges to execute code on ADM to install malware. This update fixes this underlying vulnerability. ASUSTOR strongly urges all users of Surveillance Center for ADM to install the latest version as soon as possible to protect themselves and to minimize the risk of malware infection. ASUSTOR also recommends taking additional security measures to guard against the potential harms of malware in accordance with previously announced protective measures.


ASUSTOR strongly recommends taking the following actions to ensure your data is secure:

  • Change your password.
  • Use a strong password.
  • Change default HTTP and HTTPS ports. Default ports are 8000 and 8001 respectively.
  • Turn off Terminal/SSH and SFTP services and other services you do not use.
  • Make regular backups and ensure backups are up to date.
  • Turn on and update snapshots if available.
  • Enable the AbuseIPDB risk detection greylist.

Q: How does NAS compare to other storage network architectures?

2024-02-22


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

Network Attached Storage (NAS) is one of a number of networked storage solutions and differs from other major storage solutions such as Storage Area Networks (SANs) and Direct Attached Storage (DAS).
Storage Area Network (SAN): A dedicated high-speed network used to connect multiple servers and a large number of storage devices. a SAN centralizes access, replication, and protection of all storage resources, and uses technologies such as RAID and redundant data deletion to optimize storage capacity and reliability.
  • Differences between NAS and SAN: NAS and SAN are both networked storage systems, but the main difference lies in the user's perspective. To the client, NAS is viewed as a file system, while a SAN is viewed as an operating system; NAS handles each file request, while a SAN manages requests in contiguous blocks of data. They use different underlying protocols and technologies, with SANs being more flexible but difficult to configure and manage.
Direct Attached Storage (DAS): A type of storage that connects directly to a server, such as an external hard drive connected via a cable. DAS allows only the host server to access the data directly; other devices must request the data through the host server.
  • Difference between NAS and DAS: DAS is the predecessor of NAS, which is directly connected to the server and is limited by the expansion slots in the server and by connectivity; DAS capacity and connectivity are limited by the size of the server and the expansion slots. Compared to NAS, DAS is less suitable for sharing and more complicated to manage.

Q: What are the differences between the different NAS device types?

2024-01-18


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

Server-based NAS is a device used to configure on-premise file storage and is available in a variety of sizes and types, such as desktop or rack-mounted NAS servers. These devices can be controlled and configured over a network, allowing users to easily manage storage space.
In terms of NAS expansion, there are two main ways to scale vertically and horizontally.
  1. Vertical Scale NAS: This device consists of a pair of controller-managed storage drives. More NAS drives can be purchased each time storage capacity needs to be increased. However, controllers have performance and capacity limits, so they can only optimally manage a fixed number of drives. When the limit is reached, new vertically scalable devices must be purchased, which can result in two separate file storage areas that need to be manually allocated and managed, increasing management costs.
  2. Horizontal Scale NAS: This device contains a cluster of servers that provide logical unit numbering or file sharing over a network. It has both controllers and disk drives, but the controllers can be connected to multiple physical units to ensure that they function as one logical unit. Horizontal scaling is characterized by linear expansion, and as capacity increases, so does the performance of the system. It is therefore more flexible and scalable.

Q: How does the NAS work?

2024-01-18


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

Network Attached Storage (NAS) systems use specific protocols and file formatting protocols that combine hardware and software to allow users to easily share files over a network as if they were accessing them on their own computers.
  1. Protocols: On a network, users perform data transfers over the Internet Protocol (IP), which is used to obtain the address of the file data being transferred, and the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), which is used to package the data into packets and send the packets out.
  2. File Formatting Protocols: Considering that different machines may run different operating systems, such as Windows, Linux, or Unix, NAS file systems need to support various file formats. Therefore, NAS uses specific file formatting protocols, including the following major ones:
  • Network File System (NFS): Used in Linux and Unix systems, NFS can be used in any hardware, operating system, or network architecture.
  • Server Message Block (SMB): Used in Microsoft Windows devices, SMB is the most common file formatting protocol in Windows systems.
  • Apple Filing Protocol (AFP): Designed for Apple devices running macOS, AFP is used for file access in the Apple environment.

Q: What are the basic storage principles of a NAS device?

2024-02-22


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

Network Attached Storage (NAS) is a file-based data storage solution that supports three main types of storage, namely:
  1. File Storage: Data is stored in the form of files, usually organized into a hierarchical directory structure that allows users to easily organize and manage files. This is the most common and popular storage method for file sharing and general applications.
  2. Block storage: Files are divided into small blocks, each of which stores a specific address that is used by the server's operating system to restore the complete file. This method provides faster access and is particularly suitable for high-performance applications.
  3. Object Storage: Data is stored discretely in the form of objects, each containing data, metadata (descriptive content), and a unique identifier. This is ideal for storing unstructured files such as emails, videos, photos, web pages, and sensory data generated by the Internet of Things (IoT).
Each of these three types of storage has its own unique advantages, such as file storage for local file sharing, block storage for high-performance applications, and object storage for a variety of unstructured file types. Organizations can choose the most suitable storage method based on their needs and application scenarios.

Q: What are the components of a NAS device?

2024-01-18


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

A Network Attached Storage (NAS) device typically consists of several important components, including:
  1. Physical Storage Hard Disks: NAS devices typically carry two to five hard disks, which provide a large amount of storage space. These hard drives are often organized into disk arrays (RAID), which are combined into a logical unit through virtualization technology. RAID not only helps with data backup, but also improves performance.
  2. Central Processing Unit (CPU): NAS devices are equipped with a central processing unit (CPU), which provides computing power to handle tasks such as reading and writing files, managing file systems, coordinating access for multiple users, and integrating with the cloud.
  3. Operating System: The operating system is the software interface between the storage device hardware and the user. Complex NAS units have their own operating system, while simple units may not have a separate operating system.
  4. Network Interface: NAS units connect to the network through a network interface, which can be wired (network cable) for network connectivity. In addition, many NAS units also offer USB ports for charging or connecting other devices to the NAS unit. This allows the NAS to easily connect and interact with other devices.

Q: What is the purpose of a network attached storage device?

2024-01-18


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

Organizations can effectively handle the following tasks by using Network Attached Storage (NAS) solutions:
  1. File Storage and Sharing: Facilitate collaboration and information sharing by providing members with quick and easy access to and sharing of files.
  2. Data Storage and Backup: Establish a usable data storage or backup system to facilitate disaster recovery and ensure the security of critical data.
  3. Virtual Desktop Infrastructure Host: Serve as the host for the virtual desktop infrastructure, providing members with remote access and management of their work environment.
  4. Test and Develop Web Applications: Provides developers with a secure platform for testing and developing web or server-based applications.
  5. Streaming Video and Audio Files and Torrents: Supports streaming of video and audio files and provides a convenient way to manage and share Torrent files.
  6. Storage for frequently accessed images and movies: Provides a centralized storage solution for frequently accessed large files such as images and movies.
  7. Internal Copy Server: As an internal copy server, members can easily access and manage files for printing.
For example, an audio-visual company uses a high-end NAS device to store the large number of videos and photos produced every day that cannot be synchronized to the cloud in real time due to network speeds. The use of a NAS allows any employee in the company to easily access and modify these photos over the intranet, increasing productivity.

Q: What is the importance of NAS installations?

2024-01-18


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

Many businesses and small companies choose to use NAS (Network Attached Storage) because it provides an efficient, scalable and relatively low-cost file storage solution. NAS file servers provide faster access to data and are easier to configure and manage than other server types, and can support a wide range of business applications including private email systems, accounting databases, payroll, image recording and editing, data logging and business analytics.
NAS benefits also include:
  1. Organizational Private Cloud Deployment: NAS devices can be used to build an organization's private cloud storage service, leveraging an organization's own data center or third-party-provided infrastructure.
  2. Providing Local Storage Solutions: NAS systems offer the flexibility to choose from low-cost, low-capacity devices or more expensive, high-end versions to meet different storage needs, depending on the size and needs of the organization.

Q: What is Network Attached Storage?

2024-01-18


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

A Network Attached Storage (NAS) device is a device specifically designed for file storage and sharing, with the primary function of providing employees with convenient access to files over a network, thus facilitating more efficient collaboration.A NAS device is considered a specific type of server that focuses on the tasks of data storage and file sharing. With fast, secure and reliable storage services over the network, NAS devices help simplify data management while providing convenient access to support collaboration within a team.

Q: How to install an M.2 SSD hard disk?

2023-12-21


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

Model:

Q: How to sign up an account on AbuseIPDB and obtain an API Key?

2024-07-12


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

When enabling IP risk detection, ADM will automatically block potentially harmful IP addresses found in the AbuseIPDB database and add them to the risk detection greylist. These instructions guide you to create an account on AbuseIPDB and obtain an API Key. (Introduced in ADM 4.2.6)


Registration:

  • Open a web browser and go to the AbuseIPDB website.
  • Click SIGN UP.


  • Select a plan and click SIGN UP. This guide guides you through the free plan.


  • After filling in the required information, click REGISTER.
  • AbuseIPDB will send a verification letter to the registered email address. Please verify that this is a working email account.


Create API Key:

  • After the account is verified, log in to AbuseIPDB.
  • Click Account.


  • Select API and click Create Key.


  • Entering a name, click CREATE.


  • After the API Key is generated, you can copy it directly and click CLOSE.


  • Paste the API Key in Risk Detection Greylist page under ADM Defender and click Verify.


  • You can log in to your account at any time to copy the API Key, or you can delete the Key.


Learn More

Q: Why Does Activity Monitor show a Lower Amount of RAM than what is Installed?

2023-11-17


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

The actual capacity of your NAS’s memory is found in System Information. In ADM’s Activity Monitor, the amount of memory capacity may appear to be lower than reported capacity because ADM reserves part of the system memory to ensure smooth operation of the NAS.





Models supporting Media Mode will reserve more memory. Turning on Media Mode on some ASUSTOR NAS devices reserve a portion part of the memory for use by multimedia apps. If enabled, total available memory in Activity Monitor will be reduced.



Q: How to setup direct connection between the NAS and the PC via a LAN cable

2023-10-30


#NAS #hard drive #FAQ

By connecting the NAS to the computer directly via LAN cable, the NAS shell retains its default static IP address which is 169.254.1.2(LAN1), configures the PC LAN IP address to the same segment(for example 169.254.1.10), then you can use ACC to scan and list the directly connected NAS information.