How to connect to your QNAP NAS

QNAP TS-231 (Image credit: QNAP)

Setting up a QNAP network-attached storage (NAS) server is a painless process. All you need to do is fire up the NAS, locate it on your network, and run through some initial configuration screens. This guide will walk you through each step to get up and running.

Products used in this guide

Two-bay NAS: QNAP TS-251D ($319 at Amazon)
Four-bay NAS: QNAP TS-451+ ($388 at Amazon)

How to set up and connect to your QNAP NAS

Turn on the NAS.
Look up the IP using your router or download QNAP Qfinder Pro to search.
Load the IP address in your favorite browser.
Follow the initial setup wizard to configure the NAS.

QNAP QTS — Source: QNAP (Image credit: Source: QNAP)

Once complete, you'll be greeted by QTS and are ready to go.

Two Bays

QNAP TS-251D

For beginners

The TS-251D is best suited to those who don't require much from a NAS or are just starting out with their first server. With two drive bays, you can store plenty on this compact unit.

Four Bays

QNAP TS-451+

For serious homeowners

This NAS comes with a remote, so you know QNAP has Plex and multimedia in mind. With a capable Intel CPU and four bays, the TS-451+ would make for an excellent starting media server.

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.