DAS vs NAS: Basic Differences

DAS vs NAS

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Question

Which of the following is a basic difference between DAS and NAS?

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Explanations

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A. B. C. D.

D.

Direct-attached storage (DAS) and network-attached storage (NAS) are two common types of storage solutions that are used to store data in enterprise environments. The main difference between DAS and NAS lies in the way they are connected to servers and the network.

DAS is a storage device that is directly attached to a server, typically using a SCSI or SATA interface. It operates as an extension of the server's storage, with the server managing access to the data on the DAS device. DAS is typically used for local storage, such as in a desktop computer or a standalone server.

On the other hand, NAS is a file-level storage device that is connected to a network and provides file-level access to clients over the network. NAS devices use a variety of network protocols such as NFS, SMB/CIFS, or AFP to enable clients to access files on the NAS device. NAS devices can be standalone appliances or can be integrated into larger storage arrays.

Now, let's take a look at the given options to identify the basic difference between DAS and NAS:

A. NAS requires fibre channel; DAS does not.

This statement is incorrect. NAS devices can be connected to the network using a variety of protocols, including Fibre Channel, but it is not a requirement. In fact, most NAS devices use Ethernet-based protocols such as NFS, SMB/CIFS, or iSCSI.

B. NAS is faster than DAS when using NFS.

This statement is also incorrect. The performance of DAS and NAS depends on a variety of factors, including the type of storage media, the network bandwidth, and the workload. In some cases, DAS can be faster than NAS, while in other cases, NAS can be faster than DAS.

C. DAS operates its own OS; NAS does not.

This statement is also incorrect. DAS devices do not typically have an operating system. Instead, they rely on the server's operating system to manage access to the data on the device. NAS devices, on the other hand, typically have their own operating system, which manages the file system and access to the data on the device.

D. DAS is directly connected to a server; NAS is connected via IP networking.

This statement is the correct answer. The main difference between DAS and NAS is the way they are connected to the server and the network. DAS devices are directly attached to a server, while NAS devices are connected to the network and accessed over IP networking.

In summary, the basic difference between DAS and NAS lies in their connectivity. DAS is directly attached to a server, while NAS is connected to the network and accessed over IP networking.