The original post: /r/datahoarder by /u/StarShipYear on 2025-07-21 10:48:25.
I have about 4TB files, mainly photos and 4k video. This number will increase considerably over the next few years as I upgraded my camera, file sizes are larger, and I'm taking more video. I also have iCloud that I want to extract and store myself, and loads of documents that need organised.
I suppose I've gone down a typical route: stored files my computer > started storing on SSDs > number of SSDs has built up and has become difficult to manage > explored idea of transferring everything over to HDDs and into cold storage > explored using a DAS. Now I have ended up looking at NAS.
NAS wasn't all that appealing to me, as first and foremost I simply want to protect my files. However being able to connect to my files remotely has become super appealing, particularly as I should be able to edit video on the go without carrying the files with me.
I know nothing about these setups, so looked into it over the weekend and have come to this potential setup:
NAS: Synology DS923+ (4-bay)
- 2× Seagate IronWolf 8TB NAS HDD (CMR, ST8000VNZ02)
- Raid 1 Configuration
- 1x Seagate IronWolf 8TB NAS HDD as external storage to backup Raid
Add ons (will likely add down the line...)
- 10 GbE Upgrade: Synology E10G22-T1-Mini network card
- 1× WD Black SN850X 1TB NVMe SSD (read cache)
- Another x2 8TB in the leftover bays + x1 8TB external backup
- UPS: CyberPower Value Pro 1000VA (not sure if I need this? Would appreciate advice. I'm in the UK if that means anything in terms of my electricity supply)
- Hardware firewall of some sort (again not sure about this one)
Additional Info
- I have an old MacBook Pro M1 in my home office which I can permanently connect to the NAS
- I use a MacBook Air M3 to travel and work around the house.
Initially I wasn't keen on Synology, even more after reading about the issues around HDDs. However I've ended up back there again because their software seems good and I can't find any good alternatives that offer the same.
I have explored UGreen, Terramaster, OWC. Also looked into building my own NAS. All of these have their pros, but I like simplicity. Another thing is that since I'm new to all this, I'm concerned that I risk making mistakes by unknowingly doing something wrong as I manage my files.
Before this weekend I knew absolutely ZERO about DAS, NAS, etc. So this is where I'm at with it.
This sub is amazing for the experience and advice. Could you please offer me your opinion on this setup? Does it all add up? Is it overkill or not enough? I'm trying to figure out if there is some gap somewhere.
Thank you!