How to protect your data and safeguard your NAS
It is essential to safeguard your data on network-attached storage (NAS) against natural calamities, external intrusions, and data loss. Large amounts of data—gigabytes or terabytes at times—must be stored in these containers. Not all brands of NAS are safe from assaults; ransomware and security flaws have been reported by users. To protect yourself against data loss, I advise implementing the 3-2-1 backup rule and adhering to this instructions, regardless of what you are keeping on the NAS.
Make a NAS (and data) backup.
That is when having a backup is useful. A drive or two gone? Must switch to a new system? Has ransomware caused your NAS to become unusable? Backups will come in very handy in each of the three situations. Having a solid backup plan that consists of three copies kept off-site and on two distinct storage media will guarantee that you always have a backup on hand. You may rest easy knowing that you are only one backup away from recovering everything, regardless of what happens to your network at home or at work or your NAS.
Employ two-factor verification (2FA).
It is possible that you have used and heard of 2FA on websites. Two-factor authentication is supported on several NAS software solutions, such as those from Synology and ASUSTOR. Many people tend to forget that a NAS may be accessed via an account, particularly if you have configured remote access for your enclosure. Typically, 2FA only needs an email client or login software to read and enter a generated code. Although it takes a few extra seconds to log in, it can distinguish between a secure and compromised NAS account.
Ensure that everything is current.
It is crucial that your NAS runs the most recent version of its operating system, just like your desktop computer, smartphone, and other devices. It is common for NAS operating systems to be set up to automatically search for and install OS updates, but it is still a good idea to check every now and then in case something goes wrong. Installed packages, particularly those that are front-facing and have external access, should constantly be updated in addition to the operating system. Do not forget to verify any manually installed programs, such Jellyfin or Plex Media Server.
Security patches for vulnerabilities are frequently included in the most recent firmware updates and software releases.
Set up remote access safely.
You can connect to the enclosure and all of your saved data even when you are not at home or at work by granting external access to your network attached storage (NAS). The fact that remote access exists at all is a problem. It is like a further crack in your NAS armor. If configured improperly, remote access could let anyone access your LAN or NAS and cause chaos. I have prepared a thorough tutorial on connecting your NAS to a WAN using SSL, VPNs, reverse proxies, and other methods. It will walk you through the right and wrong.
Maintain the security of your NAS.
Locking down your NAS entirely is the best approach to protect your data. Permit only trustworthy hardware to send traffic over LANs. By doing this, needless risks of data loss and hostile parties will be eliminated. There is a greater chance of becoming a victim of natural disasters or of people who intentionally cause damage in a world that is becoming more interconnected and dynamic. Similar to a server, a network attached storage device (NAS) is considered a sensitive target since it may hold data that is deleted or subject to ransomware. Working on security measures can help you safeguard your data and NAS.
In addition to making sure your NAS is sufficiently secured, you need also analyze your network to see how secure your other devices and infrastructure are. This is because your local area network (LAN) is also vulnerable to attacks.