LaCie Intros Disk-Less 5Big Network 2 RAID Server

LaCie is now offering a version of its 5Big Network 2 RAID server that doesn't come with pre-installed hard drives.

LaCie said that it is now offering a diskless version of its professional 5big Network 2 RAID server. Typically it comes packed with 5 TB, 10 TB, and 15 TB capacities, but the company decided to release an empty version so that business owners, administrators and managers can scale their security and storage from zero to five disks without data loss. That means administrators can throw in unused drives collecting dust or purchase new ones when needed (a list of compatible drives can be accessed here).

"It will automatically build the RAID mode accordingly," LaCie said. "The 5big Network 2 also offers RAID modes 5 and 6, which provide automatic, hardware-level data protection. If a single disk fails, simply replace it without turning off the appliance or losing a single byte of data."

The company also said the 5big Network 2 can be used to back up multiple Linux, PC and Mac workstations, as it's compatible with Time Machine and Windows 7 Backup. It even comes packed with two Gigabit Ethernet ports and supports speeds up to 70 MB/s for quick information sharing and backup transfers throughout the company.

As for additional technical specs, it provides 2 eSATA ports and two USB 2.0 (Type A) ports. Backup solutions include PC to NAS (software), NAS to DAS (scheduled, automatic, and restore) and NAS to NAS (scheduled, encrypted, compressed, and automatic to local or remote NAS). Special features include iSCSI target, quota management, print server capabilities and download (torrent) machine capabilities.

"For travel-bound employees, the 5big Network 2 features remote access," LaCie said. "This allows them to share files anywhere with an Internet connection – ensuring data accessibility for those last minute presentations. Employees can even share files from their iPhone or iPad by installing LaCie's free iOS app, MyNAS.

The 5big Network 2 is available in diskless, 5 TB, 10 TB, and 15 TB capacities through the LaCie Online Store and LaCie Storage Partners starting at the suggested retail price of $349.00.

Kevin Parrish is a contributing editor and writer for Tom's Hardware,Tom's Games and Tom's Guide. He's also a graphic artist, CAD operator and network administrator.

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