# Planning to Purchase a NAS or Thinking of Upgrading? Here Are the Servers You Should Focus On
If you’re searching for a NAS (Network Attached Storage) solution or contemplating an upgrade, you’re in luck. With Amazon’s second Prime Day event approaching in October, it’s an ideal moment to snag a deal on a NAS server. Whether your goal is to centralize your data, back up files, or establish a media server, a NAS is a crucial resource for both home and small business users. Here’s a summary of some top NAS servers worth considering, especially with potential savings on the horizon.
## Reasons to Consider a NAS
NAS servers have surged in popularity lately, and rightly so. As the volume of data we create continues to rise—encompassing photos, videos, work documents, or media collections—a NAS presents a convenient, centralized method to store, manage, and access your information from anywhere. They also offer solid backup solutions, media streaming capabilities, and even options to run virtual machines or containers.
If you’ve been contemplating acquiring a NAS or upgrading your current setup, here are some leading models to watch for.
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## 1. **ASUSTOR AS5402T**
*(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)*
The **ASUSTOR AS5402T** ranks among the top NAS servers in its class, featuring a robust Intel-based platform with 4GB of RAM and dual 2.5GbE connectivity. This model excels in its hardware features, which include:
– **Intel processor** with support for transcoding
– **Dual 2.5GbE ports** for enhanced network speeds
– **4GB of RAM**, which can be upgraded for more intensive tasks
– **Four M.2 slots**, enabling the addition of SSDs for quicker storage alongside conventional 3.5-inch mechanical drives
ASUSTOR has also significantly enhanced its software. The latest ADM interface is sleek, user-friendly, and filled with features, making it an excellent choice for both novices and advanced users.
**Price:** $369 (Expected to be reduced by 20% during Prime Day)
If you’re in search of a NAS that combines performance and flexibility, the ASUSTOR AS5402T is an outstanding option, especially if it goes on sale during Prime Day.
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## 2. **DiskStation DS923+**
*(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)*
Synology’s **DiskStation DS923+** is another strong candidate, particularly if you’re in the market for a NAS with superior software. Although its hardware may not dominate in terms of power, the DS923+ excels thanks to its **DSM (DiskStation Manager)** interface, regarded as the best in the field.
Key features include:
– **AMD Ryzen processor** for reliable performance
– **4GB of RAM**, with an upgrade option
– **Dual M.2 slots** for SSD caching
– **Upgradeable to 10GbE** with an additional network card
While it only includes Gigabit Ethernet ports, the DS923+ can be enhanced to 10GbE, making it a forward-compatible choice for those needing elevated network speeds. It’s also excellent for running Plex media servers, despite lacking hardware transcoding.
**Price:** $598 (Anticipated to decrease to $499 during Prime Day)
If you prioritize software and user-friendliness in a NAS, the DS923+ is hard to surpass, particularly if it sees a significant price cut.
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## 3. **DiskStation DS223j**
*(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)*
For those just entering the realm of NAS servers, the **DiskStation DS223j** serves as an outstanding entry-level option. It’s ideal for individuals wishing to explore NAS storage without overspending. Although it doesn’t boast the most powerful hardware, it’s quite capable of managing essential tasks like data backups and media streaming.
Key features include:
– **Budget-friendly price** for first-time NAS users
– **2-bay configuration**, allowing for RAID 1 mirroring for data protection
– **DSM software**, offering
