Best NAS for Media Server: Elevate Your Home Entertainment

As our homes get smarter, our media consumption also becomes more demanding. Traditional storage solutions are no longer enough to stream your favorite shows, share home videos with your family, or store your growing media collection. You need a reliable, high-performance media server like the NAS storage (Network Attached Storage).

But what makes a NAS the best choice for your media server, and how do you set one up? Let’s dive into why it could be the upgrade your home entertainment system needs and which factors to consider when choosing the best NAS for media server.

Why Do You Need a NAS for Media Server?

Have you ever tried streaming from a regular external hard drive? Then, you have suffered either lag or limited device access. NAS system solves this by centralizing your files, allowing seamless access across all your devices—your smart TV, phone, or laptop. With a NAS storage, you don’t have to worry about manually transferring files between devices. You can access everything in one place.

Plus, NAS devices are designed to run 24/7. You can continuously stream your favorite movies or music during a family night. Unlike the traditional storage solutions that consistently buffers, they’re also built to handle heavy loads and ensure smooth playback. In short, if you're serious about home entertainment, a NAS for your media server offers the stability and performance you need.

Some Popular Media Server Software Options

When using a NAS as a media server, pairing it with the right software is essential for unlocking its full potential. Here are a few popular media server options:

• Plex: One of the most well-known options is Plex. It is perfect for organizing and streaming your media across various devices. It also offers a user-friendly interface and tons of customization.
• Emby: Emby is similar to Plex. It also allows for streaming across multiple devices and includes parental controls, making it great for family use.
• Jellyfin: Jellyfin, on the other hand, is an open-source and completely free media server software. It’s a community-driven project that works well for streaming.

Each of these media server options has its strengths, but ultimately, choosing the best one comes down to your personal needs. Plex, for instance, is perfect for those who want an easy setup, while Jellyfin appeals to users who value customization.

What to Consider When Choosing a NAS for Media Server

When choosing the right NAS for your media server, you don’t just grab the first device you see. You need to weigh several important factors to ensure you get the best experience.

• Storage Capacity

Remember that your media library will only grow over time, especially with the high-definition content that’s common nowadays. So, make sure you get a NAS system with enough bays to allow you to expand storage as needed. 

For example, LincPlus offers a fantastic 6-bay NAS option that provides you with ample room to scale your storage needs without the need to replace drives every few years. The flexibility to add more storage means you can use your media server for years and years.

• Processing Power

If you are constantly streaming, opt for a NAS storage with a capable processor and enough RAM. Streaming media requires a lot of processing power, especially if you plan on transcoding your videos (converting media into a compatible format for your devices). 

In our case, the LincPlus' LincStation N1 includes powerful specs, like an Intel Celeron processor and 16GB RAM, which is more than enough for smooth 4K streaming. It can certainly handle multiple streams without slowing down.

• Connectivity

Speed means everything when it comes to streaming, especially for high-definition or 4K content. So, you should look for a NAS device that has fast Ethernet ports and supports link aggregation for improved data transfer speeds. 

Luckily, the LincStation N1 supports gigabit Ethernet and even offers USB 3.0 ports. These allow you to connect external drives for even more flexibility.

• Energy Efficiency

Performance is important, but you also want a NAS device that won’t drain your electricity bill. Keep in mind that the device will be running 24/7. The LincPlus N1 is designed with energy efficiency in mind, meaning you’ll get strong performance without unnecessary power consumption. This makes it not only efficient but also sustainable for long-term use.

How to Install a Media Server on Unraid NAS

Unraid is a popular NAS operating system that allows you to install a media server like Plex or Jellyfin. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Install Unraid on Your NAS: First, you’ll need to set up Unraid on your NAS. Start by downloading Unraid from their official site. Then, create a bootable USB and install it on your NAS.
2. Set Up Your Storage: Once Unraid is up and running, you’ll need to configure your storage. This involves setting up your drives in the array and cache pool.
3. Install Plex Media Server: From the Unraid interface, go to the Communi and search for "Plex." Depending on your preference, you can also choose other media server software like Jellyfin or Emby. Install it from there.
4. Configure Plex: After installation, open the Plex web interface, add your media libraries, and set up user profiles if needed.
5. Start Streaming: Once everything is set up, your NAS is ready to stream media to any device on your network. You can access your library from anywhere in the world, making it a versatile solution for home entertainment.

Conclusion

Nowadays, setting up a NAS for media server isn’t just a luxury—it’s a smart way to centralize and optimize your home entertainment system. Whether you’re a movie buff, music lover, or just looking for a reliable place to store your digital life, it is the key to unlocking the future of home media.

The best NAS for media server offers the performance, flexibility, and scalability that traditional storage solutions can’t match. They allow you to back up valuable files and stream high-definition movies without a hitch. 

So, to take your home entertainment to the next level with a NAS that delivers on all fronts: speed, storage, and security, get a trusted product like the LincStation N1. With a LincPlus nas, you’re not just investing in storage but in a media experience that’ll serve you for years.