Choosing a NAS for small business backup involves balancing performance, cost, and ease of management. The Synology DiskStation DS725+ stands out as the best overall due to its expandability and reliable software. For those prioritizing affordability, the Synology DS223j offers solid basic features without breaking the bank, while the Terramaster F6-424 provides increased storage capacity with six bays. The main tradeoffs involve balancing budget constraints against future scalability and performance needs. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the top options and what makes each suitable for different small business scenarios.
Key Takeaways
- The best NAS devices for small business backups balance expandability with ease of use, especially for growing teams.
- Performance specs like CPU power and network interfaces significantly impact backup speeds and media serving capabilities.
- Choosing between 2-bay, 4-bay, or larger NAS depends on current storage needs and future growth plans.
- Ease of setup and management is crucial for small teams without dedicated IT staff, favoring brands like Synology.
- Higher upfront costs often translate into better long-term scalability and more robust data protection features.
| Synology DiskStation DS223j (Diskless) 2-Bay NAS |  | Best Overall for Small Business Backup | Model: DS223j | Number of Bays: 2 | Storage: Diskless | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS223 Home & Office 2-Bay Diskless NAS |  | Best Value for Entry-Level Small Business Backup | Brand: Synology | Model Number: DS223 | Item Type: NAS | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS725+ Expandable NAS Storage – 2-Bay Diskless Private Cloud for Home and Small Business |  | Best for Scalable Storage and Data Protection | Number of Bays: 2 | Maximum Storage Capacity: 140TB with expansion | Includes: Diskless NAS | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Drivestor 2 Gen 2 AS1202T 2-Bay NAS Storage, Quad-Core 1.7GHz CPU, 2.5GbE Network, 1GB DDR4, 4K Media Server, Diskless |  | Best for Fast Home and Small Office Media Streaming | Processor: Realtek RTD1619B quad-core 1.7GHz | Network: 2.5GbE Ethernet | Memory: 1GB DDR4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server – 2-Bay Diskless NAS with Intel CPU |  | Best for Media Streaming and Surveillance Integration | Model: DS225+ | Number of Bays: 2 | CPU: Intel | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server – 4-Bay Diskless NAS |  | Best Overall for Robust Business Storage and Surveillance | Brand: Synology | Model: DS425+ | Network Speed: 278 MB/s | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS423 Family & Business NAS – 4-Bay Diskless Network Storage with Backup, File Sharing, and Video Surveillance |  | Best for Versatile Home & Small Business Use | Number of Bays: 4 | Storage Type: Diskless | Warranty: 2 years | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TERRAMASTER F6-424 NAS Storage 6-Bay with Quad-Core CPU and 8GB DDR5 RAM (Diskless) |  | Best for High-Performance Storage and Flexible RAID Options | CPU: N95 Quad-Core 3.4GHz | Memory: 8GB DDR5 (upgradable to 32GB) | Number of Bays: 6 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS |  | Best for Media-Driven Small Business Content Creation | Processor: Intel Celeron N5105 | Memory: 4GB DDR4 (expandable to 16GB) | Drive Bays: 4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| nas for small business backup | Number of Bays | Warranty |
|---|---|---|
| Synology DiskStation DS223j | 2 | 2 years |
| Synology DS223 Home & Office 2 | — | 2 years |
| Synology DS725+ Expandable NAS | 2 | 3 years |
| Asustor Drivestor 2 Gen 2 AS12 | — | — |
| Synology DS225+ Private Cloud | 2 | 3 years |
| Synology DS425+ Private Cloud | 4 | — |
| Synology DS423 Family & Busine | 4 | 2 years |
| TERRAMASTER F6-424 NAS Storage | 6 | — |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6 | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Synology DiskStation DS223j (Diskless) 2-Bay NAS
The Synology DS223j stands out for its robust security features and multi-platform file sharing, making it ideal for small businesses prioritizing data privacy. Unlike the DS725+ which offers scalability, this model provides a straightforward setup with reliable hardware backed by a 2-year warranty. Its key strength lies in creating a secure private cloud and supporting remote access, but it requires additional disks to function and doesn’t include advanced security or surveillance features. This pick makes the most sense for small businesses that need a dependable, easy-to-manage backup solution without extensive storage expansion or enterprise-level features.
Pros:- Secure private cloud with multi-platform access
- Automated backup for multiple devices
- Supports remote IP camera monitoring
- Reliable hardware with 2-year warranty
Cons:- Requires additional disks for storage capacity
- Limited to NAS functionalities, no full security system
Best for: Small businesses seeking a secure, easy-to-use private cloud with automated backups and remote access.
Not ideal for: Businesses with large data storage needs or requiring built-in surveillance without extra hardware investments.
- Model:DS223j
- Number of Bays:2
- Storage:Diskless
- Warranty:2 years
- Features:Private cloud, file sharing, automated backups, IP camera support
Our verdict“Ideal for small businesses wanting straightforward, secure backup and file sharing without complex setup.”
Synology DS223 Home & Office 2-Bay Diskless NAS
The Synology DS223 offers an accessible entry point for small businesses that need reliable data centralization and basic surveillance features. Compared with the DS725+, which provides scalability, this model is simpler, with a user-friendly interface ideal for users new to NAS. Its strengths include easy file sharing, automated backups, and built-in IP camera support, but the diskless setup means additional drives are needed, and the 2-bay limit can restrict storage growth. This makes it well-suited for small teams or startups starting with modest data needs but wanting a manageable, all-in-one solution.
Pros:- Centralizes and protects business data
- Supports automated backups for multiple devices
- Built-in surveillance with IP camera monitoring
- User-friendly interface with free private cloud
Cons:- Requires additional drives (diskless setup)
- Limited to 2 bays, restricting future expansion
- Basic features may lack enterprise-grade options
Best for: Small businesses or startups seeking a cost-effective, easy-to-operate backup and file-sharing solution.
Not ideal for: Growing businesses with large or expanding storage requirements, or those needing advanced enterprise features.
- Brand:Synology
- Model Number:DS223
- Item Type:NAS
- Unit Count:1
- Warranty:2 years
- UPC:846504004775
Our verdict“A strong choice for small teams wanting easy data management and surveillance without complexity or high costs.”
Synology DS725+ Expandable NAS Storage – 2-Bay Diskless Private Cloud for Home and Small Business
The Synology DS725+ is tailored for small businesses planning for growth, offering up to 140TB of expandable storage with optional expansion units. Compared to the DS223 series, which is more straightforward, the DS725+ provides greater flexibility and multi-layered data protection, ideal for those with larger or evolving data needs. Its primary tradeoff is the added complexity in setup, which might overwhelm beginners. For those needing a future-proof solution that can handle increased storage demands and sophisticated security, this NAS offers a balanced mix of scalability and reliability.
Pros:- Scalable storage up to 140TB with expansion units
- Multi-layered data protection features
- Supports surveillance and camera management
- Longer 3-year warranty for peace of mind
Cons:- Requires additional expansion units for maximum capacity
- Setup complexity may challenge beginners
- Higher cost as capacity and features expand
Best for: Growing small businesses or those with large data backup needs looking for scalable storage solutions.
Not ideal for: Small startups or users requiring plug-and-play simplicity, since setup and expansion can be complex.
- Number of Bays:2
- Maximum Storage Capacity:140TB with expansion
- Includes:Diskless NAS
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“Designed for small businesses with future storage needs who are ready for a more complex, scalable NAS setup.”
Asustor Drivestor 2 Gen 2 AS1202T 2-Bay NAS Storage, Quad-Core 1.7GHz CPU, 2.5GbE Network, 1GB DDR4, 4K Media Server, Diskless
The Asustor Drivestor 2 Gen 2 AS1202T offers a compelling mix of speed and media support, with its 2.5GbE network and quad-core CPU. Compared to Synology options like the DS223, which emphasize security and ease of use, this model prioritizes fast data transfer and media streaming, making it ideal for content-heavy environments. However, its limited 1GB RAM can hinder multitasking under heavier loads, and the diskless configuration means additional drives are essential. This NAS appeals most to small offices or home users who need quick access and media capabilities but are comfortable with some setup effort.
Pros:- Fast 2.5GbE network for quick data transfer
- Supports 4K media streaming and playback
- Easy tool-free drive installation
- Quad-core processor enhances performance
Cons:- Limited 1GB RAM restricts multitasking
- Requires separate drives to operate
- No built-in surveillance or advanced backup features
Best for: Home users or small offices focused on fast media streaming and quick data access.
Not ideal for: Businesses looking for simple backup solutions or those with large, growing data archives requiring extensive storage.
- Processor:Realtek RTD1619B quad-core 1.7GHz
- Network:2.5GbE Ethernet
- Memory:1GB DDR4
- Drive Bays:2
- Form Factor:Diskless
Our verdict“Best suited for small environments prioritizing media and media streaming performance over extensive storage or enterprise features.”
Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server – 2-Bay Diskless NAS with Intel CPU
The Synology DS225+ combines media streaming with advanced surveillance support, including AI detection and remote monitoring, making it ideal for small businesses that value media playback alongside security. Its Intel CPU and 4K media support outperform simpler NAS units like the DS223, providing smoother playback and faster backups. Nonetheless, as a diskless model, it demands additional drives, and its setup can be complex for those unfamiliar with NAS configurations. It’s well-suited for small offices or homes needing robust media and security features in one package.
Pros:- Supports 4K media streaming and playback
- Automated backups with RAID redundancy
- Supports up to 30 IP cameras with AI detection
- Reliable 3-year warranty
Cons:- Requires purchasing drives separately
- Setup complexity for advanced features
- Higher cost due to added security features
Best for: Small businesses or home offices requiring reliable media streaming combined with surveillance features.
Not ideal for: Businesses with minimal media or security needs, or users seeking plug-and-play simplicity.
- Model:DS225+
- Number of Bays:2
- CPU:Intel
- Transfer Speed:282 MB/s
- Surveillance Support:Up to 30 IP cameras
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“A smart choice for small businesses needing media and security integration with reliable performance.”
Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server – 4-Bay Diskless NAS
The Synology DS425+ stands out for its high network speeds and multi-user support, making it a top choice for small businesses that need reliable backup combined with surveillance capabilities. Compared to the Synology DS423, which offers similar features but with a slightly lower data transfer rate, the DS425+ excels in handling larger data loads and more concurrent users. Its support for RAID, snapshots, and multiple backup destinations provides strong data protection, though it requires some technical skill to set up and manage. The absence of included drives means additional costs, but this allows flexibility in choosing storage sizes. Overall, this model offers a versatile, all-in-one solution for businesses seeking scalable backup and security, though casual users may find the setup more complex than needed.
Pros:- High-speed data transfer (278 MB/s) suitable for busy office environments
- Supports multiple users and concurrent access, ideal for team collaboration
- Robust data protection features including RAID, snapshots, and backups
- Versatile all-in-one solution for storage, backup, and surveillance
Cons:- Requires technical knowledge for setup and management
- Additional cost for disks since it’s diskless
- Potentially complex for users unfamiliar with network storage
Best for: Small business IT teams needing high-speed, multi-user backup and surveillance integration
Not ideal for: Small businesses without technical resources or those seeking a plug-and-play device with included disks
- Brand:Synology
- Model:DS425+
- Network Speed:278 MB/s
- Number of Bays:4
- Supported Cameras:30 IP cameras
- Connectivity:2.5GbE
Our verdict“Best suited for small businesses with existing IT expertise looking for a high-performance backup and surveillance NAS.”
Synology DS423 Family & Business NAS – 4-Bay Diskless Network Storage with Backup, File Sharing, and Video Surveillance
The Synology DS423 offers a compelling mix of security, file sharing, and surveillance features tailored for small businesses and home offices. Its support for up to 30 IP cameras (with license), combined with comprehensive backup options, makes it a flexible choice for those prioritizing data safety. Compared to the Synology DS425+, which emphasizes high network speeds and multi-user access, the DS423 provides a more budget-conscious option with solid security features, though it has a shorter warranty (2 years). Its lack of pre-installed drives and the need to purchase camera licenses separately may add to initial costs. This NAS makes sense for users who want secure cloud-like access and surveillance without the complexity of enterprise-level hardware.
Pros:- Secure private cloud access and file sharing to protect sensitive data
- Supports up to 30 IP cameras with license, offering flexible surveillance options
- Includes snapshots and multi-destination backup for comprehensive data protection
- Good fit for users wanting a balance of security and storage
Cons:- Camera license must be purchased separately, increasing initial costs
- No pre-installed drives, requiring additional purchase
- Limited to 30 cameras without extra licenses, which may restrict scalability
Best for: Small business owners seeking secure, versatile data storage with integrated surveillance capabilities
Not ideal for: Businesses that require high-speed data transfer or extensive multi-user performance out of the box
- Number of Bays:4
- Storage Type:Diskless
- Warranty:2 years
- Compatible Cameras:Up to 30 IP cameras (license required)
Our verdict“Ideal for small businesses prioritizing security, backup, and surveillance over raw speed or extensive user concurrency.”
TERRAMASTER F6-424 NAS Storage 6-Bay with Quad-Core CPU and 8GB DDR5 RAM (Diskless)
The TERRAMASTER F6-424 delivers robust hardware suited for demanding backup and storage needs in small to medium-sized businesses. Its quad-core N95 CPU paired with 8GB DDR5 RAM (upgradable) offers solid performance, especially for data-intensive tasks. When compared to the Asustor Lockerstor 4, which emphasizes media transcoding and media-centric features, the F6-424 is more focused on raw storage capacity and flexible RAID configurations, supporting RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, JBOD, and single disk modes. Its dual 2.5GbE ports provide fast network connectivity, though setup can be complex for those unfamiliar with RAID management. Its no-included disks policy allows customization but adds initial cost, and the premium hardware might be more than small businesses need if simplicity is preferred.
Pros:- Powerful hardware with fast CPU and DDR5 memory for demanding tasks
- Supports multiple RAID configurations for tailored data protection
- Easy SSD installation for performance upgrades
- High-speed network connectivity with dual 2.5GbE ports
Cons:- No disks included, increasing initial costs
- Setup complexity may challenge beginners unfamiliar with RAID
- Premium hardware may be excessive for small-scale backup needs
Best for: Small to medium businesses needing high-performance, customizable backup storage with RAID flexibility
Not ideal for: Small businesses seeking a simple, plug-and-play NAS with minimal setup or cost
- CPU:N95 Quad-Core 3.4GHz
- Memory:8GB DDR5 (upgradable to 32GB)
- Number of Bays:6
- Network Ports:Dual 2.5GbE
- Supported RAID:RAID 0/1/5/6/10/JBOD/Single
- SSD Slots:2 M.2 NVMe
Our verdict“Best suited for technically proficient small businesses wanting high-performance, customizable storage solutions.”
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS
The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ offers a strong mix of media features and expandable performance, making it a good fit for small businesses involved in content creation or media-heavy workflows. Its Intel Celeron N5105 CPU and support for hardware 4K transcoding enable smooth media streaming and editing, outperforming basic NAS options like the Synology DS423 in multimedia tasks. The dual 5GbE ports provide fast network speeds, while support for both SATA and NVMe SSDs offers flexible storage upgrade paths. However, the diskless setup requires buyers to purchase drives separately, and RAM expansion is capped at 16GB, limiting future upgrades. This NAS makes most sense for businesses that need media processing alongside backup, but might be overkill if simple storage suffices.
Pros:- High-speed dual 5GbE network ports for fast data transfer
- Supports hardware 4K transcoding and HDMI output for media playback
- Supports both SATA HDD/SSD and NVMe SSDs for flexible storage
- Expandable RAM up to 16GB for improved performance
Cons:- Requires separate purchase of drives, increasing initial setup cost
- Maximum RAM limited to 16GB, restricting future upgrades
- More complex setup for media and storage management
Best for: Small content creators or media-focused businesses needing fast media processing and expandable storage
Not ideal for: Small businesses seeking a straightforward backup NAS without media or transcoding needs
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105
- Memory:4GB DDR4 (expandable to 16GB)
- Drive Bays:4
- Network:Dual 5GbE ports
- Media Output:HDMI
- Supported Storage:SATA HDD/SSD and NVMe SSD
Our verdict“Ideal for small businesses that combine backup with media processing and content creation tasks, especially those with media streaming needs.”
How We Picked
Each NAS was evaluated based on performance, ease of use, build quality, expandability, and value for small business backup needs. Devices with reliable software ecosystems, straightforward setup, and scalable hardware options ranked higher. We also considered network connectivity options like 2.5GbE or 10GbE, which influence backup and transfer speeds. Cost-to-performance ratio was a key factor, ensuring choices offer good value without sacrificing core features. The ranking reflects a balance between affordability and future-proofing, prioritizing models that suit small business workflows and data protection requirements.Factors to Consider When Choosing Nas For Small Business Backup
When selecting a NAS for small business backup, understanding key factors ensures you choose a device that scales with your needs and simplifies management. Beyond the specifications, consider how the NAS integrates into your existing network, its software ecosystem, and the total cost of ownership. Making the right choice involves balancing immediate needs with future growth, avoiding common pitfalls like overpaying for features you won’t use or underestimating storage requirements.Storage Capacity and Expandability
Determining your current storage needs is just the start; consider future growth. Devices with more bays or the ability to add expansion units provide scalability without immediate replacement. Small businesses often start with 2 or 4 bays but should plan for at least double that capacity down the line. Avoid underestimating your needs—running out of space can disrupt backups and workflows. Also, check if the NAS supports RAID configurations for data redundancy, which is essential for backup reliability.
Performance and Network Connectivity
Backup speeds depend heavily on CPU power and network interfaces. Look for models with at least 1GbE, but 2.5GbE or 10GbE options offer faster data transfers—crucial if your backups involve large media files or frequent restores. CPU choice affects the NAS’s ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, including media serving or running apps. A faster CPU and higher network bandwidth reduce backup windows and improve overall responsiveness, especially as your business grows.
Ease of Use and Software Ecosystem
For small teams without dedicated IT, intuitive setup and management are essential. Brands like Synology excel here with user-friendly interfaces and robust app ecosystems. Features like automatic backups, remote access, and integrated security simplify daily operations. Beware of overly complex systems that require extensive technical knowledge—these can slow down your operations or lead to misconfiguration. Consider the availability of customer support and community resources as additional layers of reassurance.
Price and Total Cost of Ownership
Initial cost is only part of the equation; factor in the price of disks, expansion options, and ongoing maintenance. Higher upfront investments in models with better hardware and software features often pay off through lower maintenance and higher reliability. Cheaper NAS units may tempt small businesses, but they might lack essential features like hardware RAID or have limited app support. Budget wisely, ensuring the device you choose offers a balance between affordability and future-proofing.
Security and Data Protection Features
Data security is non-negotiable for backups. Look for NAS devices with built-in encryption, multi-factor authentication, and support for snapshots. These features protect against ransomware and accidental data loss. Also, verify if the device supports cloud sync or off-site backups for additional redundancy. Skipping advanced security features can leave your business vulnerable to cyber threats, which can be devastating for small operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a consumer-grade NAS for my small business backups?
While consumer-grade NAS devices may seem tempting due to their lower prices, they often lack the durability, scalability, and security features necessary for reliable business backups. Small businesses benefit from enterprise-grade features such as hardware RAID, better hardware warranties, and advanced security protocols. Using a dedicated business-oriented NAS reduces the risk of data loss and provides peace of mind, especially as your backup needs grow.
How much storage should I start with for my small business NAS?
Start by assessing your current data volume, including documents, media, and backups, then add a buffer for growth—typically 50-100% extra. Many small businesses begin with 4TB to 8TB of usable space on a 2-bay or 4-bay NAS, but always consider future expansion options. Remember, choosing a NAS with additional bays or expansion units can prevent costly replacements later on, making scalability a key consideration from the outset.
Is a 2-bay NAS sufficient for small business backups?
A 2-bay NAS can handle small backup workloads and offers redundancy through RAID 1, but it might limit future growth. If your data needs are expected to increase rapidly, opting for a 4-bay or larger device provides more flexibility. For very small operations with minimal data, a 2-bay NAS often strikes a good balance between cost and functionality, but planning for expansion is wise to avoid replacing the device prematurely.
Should I prioritize performance or ease of use when choosing a NAS?
For most small businesses, ease of use should take priority, especially if you lack dedicated IT personnel. User-friendly interfaces, automated backups, and simple setup streamline daily operations and reduce errors. However, if your business handles large media files or requires rapid backups and restores, investing in higher-performance hardware with faster CPUs and network interfaces makes sense. Balancing both factors based on your specific workload is key.
What security features are essential in a NAS for business backups?
Security features like hardware encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular firmware updates are essential to protect your data. Snapshots and versioning help recover from ransomware or accidental deletions, while remote access controls prevent unauthorized connections. Avoid devices lacking these features, as data breaches or ransomware attacks can have serious consequences for small businesses. Prioritize models with reputable security protocols and active support for ongoing updates.
