Best Ethernet Connected RAID Enclosure

Synology DiskStation NAS

• Synology NAS devices like DS923+ or DS1522+ are recommended for photographers to store and manage photos securely.
• Users suggest using at least a 4-bay NAS for scalability and redundancy.
• Pros:
  • "Synology Apps like Synology Drive for syncing files."
  • "Access photos from any device."
  • "Flexible workflow."
• Cons:
  • Additional drives need to be NAS-optimized rather than consumer drives.
  • NAS is not a backup on its own, requiring offsite backups.

DIY Server

• Consider building a DIY Server with multiple drive bays for flexibility in storage upgrades.
• Pros:
  • Easily replace and upgrade drives as needed for storage growth.
  • Cost-effective in the long run for higher capacity drives.
• Cons:
  • Requires technical knowledge for setup and maintenance.

External JBOD Enclosures

• ORICO JBOD enclosures are recommended for expanding storage without NAS functionality.
• Check reviews for compatibility and features like passing SMART data.
• Pros:
  • Simplified storage expansion without setup complexity.
• Cons:
  • May lack advanced features like SMART data access or individual drive control.

Storage Considerations

• Opt for higher capacity drives (e.g., 16TB or 18TB) to future-proof storage needs.
• External drives with USB 3 can offer practical speeds for HDDs.
• For performance, consider factors like networking speed and cache drives.

Additional Considerations

• RAID configurations like RAID 10 (striped mirror) are preferred by some users for performance and redundancy.
• Consider using Debian or Proxmox as the base OS for your setup.
• Ensure proper cooling for components like HBA cards, as they may require additional ventilation.

Networking Options

• Consider 10GbE networking for faster data transfer speeds over Thunderbolt connectivity.
• Use compatible adapters like CalDigit Connect 10G or SonnetTech Solo10G for 10GbE to Thunderbolt connections.
• Pros:
  • Improved data transfer speeds compared to traditional Thunderbolt connections.
• Cons:
  • Requires additional adapters and setup complexity.

This comprehensive summary covers various storage options, DIY setups, networking considerations, and external enclosures to help users make an informed decision when selecting the best Ethernet-connected RAID enclosure for their needs.