New firmware
It’s worth mentioning some of the upgrades which are coming in version 3.2.0 of the QNAP firmware. WebDAV makes an appearance, increasing the cross-platform support for various file storage systems. The firmware also gains Apple Time Machine support and the ability to create Time Machine mount points without needing to mess around at the command line. The Web File Manager has also been upgraded, enabling on-the-fly compression, multiple simultaneous uploads, and a neat drag and drop interface.
Additionally, version 3.2.0 will have IPv6 support (a first for any consumer NAS!), DFS shared folder aggregation, backup to Amazon S3 and other cloud storage services, real-time function search, the ability to import lists of users, and Dutch and Czech language support. Lastly, iSCSI support sees a major overhaul, making it compliant with VMWare and Windows Server 2008 for virtualization over a SAN.
Final thoughts
It’s been a while since ThinkComputers reviewed a QNAP product. We’ve seen the TS-109 Pro, the TS-409, the TS-409U, and the TS-209 Pro II. Our last review was the TS-809 Pro, an eight-bay monster NAS for medium and large businesses sporting a 2 GHz Core2Duo and 2 GB of RAM.
I’m particularly stoked to see a lot of the new features in store for version 3.2.0. QNAP’s firmware is already kick-ass, and this coming release will make it even better!
ThinkComputers gives the QNAP TS-439U-RP Rackmount NAS a 9 out of 10 score. This unit is a great decision for any business or enterprise.
The QNAP TS-439U-RP is available for approximately $1,000 to $1,500 from many on-line retailers.
Pros:
- Quick
- Slick admin interface
- Support for all major network storage protocols
- So many potential uses; amazing versatility
Cons:
- Prohibitively expensive for anyone but businesses and high-rollers
- SSH login supports only admin user
- Loud, but it’s not meant for home usage
