There are many solutions on how you can build a Raspberry Pi NAS (Network attached storage). We will take you through just a few of the choices you have.
Each piece of software has its pros and cons. Some are better at specific tasks than others. There is a lot to take into consideration.
On this page, we highlight a wide range of software packages ranging from a simple FTP server right through to a “cloud” setup.
We will update this page with more Raspberry Pi NAS solutions once we have more tutorials. If you have any recommendations, then be sure to let us know.
Network Attached Storage Protocols
Raspberry Pi Samba
The Samba project is one of the most popular ways to turn your Pi into a NAS. It implements the SMB/CIFS protocol and will work nicely with most operating systems.
Samba not only provides file services, it can also share printers. I highly recommend this setup if you want something easy to set up and maintain.
Raspberry Pi File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
FTP or File Transfer Protocol is a very common protocol for transferring files between a computer and a server. If you have done any web server work, you will recognize this straight away.
Setting up this protocol is incredibly easy since it is already ready to go on Raspbian. You can do a little extra configuration to make it more secure.
Raspberry Pi Apple Filing Protocol (AFP)
AFP or Apple File Protocol is a proprietary network protocol that allows file sharing. It is very similar to Samba but works better with Mac computers than it does with Windows.
This protocol is an ideal choice for a Raspberry Pi NAS if you find yourself with mainly Mac computers. Otherwise, I suggest choosing something else, such as Samba.
Raspberry Pi Network File System (NFS)
NFS or network file system is a network file protocol originally developed by Sun Microsystems. Much like the other protocols, this too allows a way to share files on your network.
If Samba or AFP doesn’t take your fancy, then you should certainly consider using this protocol. It is still widely used and a reliable alternative to the other protocols.
Cloud Software Packages
Raspberry Pi Owncloud
OwnCloud is an excellent way of sharing files both locally and via the internet. It’s very similar to something like Dropbox, but instead, you host the data yourself.
It comes complete with a beautiful interface and offers extensions so you can increase the functionality of your setup.
Raspberry Pi Nextcloud
Nextcloud is very similar to Owncloud since it is a fork of it. It’s a very active project and is being worked on by the original Owncloud developer and some of the original team.
The web interface is visually nice and perfect if you love easy to use interfaces. Again, it’s ideal for sharing files locally and over the internet.