Source: Rich Edmonds / Windows Central
Installing an SSD (or two) inside the ASUSTOR AS6508T is a sure way to improve performance with the drive(s) acting as a form of cache. This makes accessing data stored on the NAS a quicker process, especially if multiple users are doing so. This guide will show you how easy it is to install an SSD.
Products used in this guide
- Serious NAS: ASUSTOR AS6508T ($1,097 at Newegg)
- Improve performance: Samsung 970 EVO Plus (From $75 at Amazon)
How to install an NVMe SSD
- Remove the three small screws on the rear of the NAS, using a Philips screwdriver.
Extract the outer shell by pushing towards the rear and lift the panel up.
Source: Rich Edmonds / Windows Central- Locate the two M.2 slots on the top of the inner chassis. (If your M.2 drives aren't 2280, meaning 22mm wide and 80mm long, you'll need to re-position the pre-installed standoffs.)
- Install the SSDs using screws provided with the ASUSTOR NAS to secure them in place.
- Re-install the outer shell.
- Secure the NAS together with the three small screws removed in step 1.
Now you're ready to pop into ADM and add the SSD as a cache. It's worth noting that if you plan on using the SSD cache for read-only, you'll be fine with one or two drives in RAID 0. Still, if you plan on writing to these SSDs for storage on your installed HDDs, I strongly recommend you have two in a RAID 1 configuration for data redundancy.
ASUSTOR AS6508T
You're going to need the ASUSTOR AS6508T. If you're looking for an 8-bay NAS with upgradable RAM, M.2 SSD slots, and an Intel processor, this is a solid example. It's a killer mid-tier NAS for the home or small office.
Samsung EVO 970 Plus
To take advantage of the cache feature, you'll need a good SSD and the Samsung EVO 970 Plus is about as good as you can get for performance and value.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
These storage drives will pair perfectly with any NAS
Choosing a hard drive for your NAS is about more than affordability. You need to consider other factors including capacity, vibration protection, and reliability.
These drives work great with a Synology DS419slim NAS
These are the drives you'll want to install inside the Synology DS419slim.
You HAVE to use these hard drives for the ASUSTOR AS5304T NAS
The ASUSTOR AS5304T is a great NAS for homeowners, small offices and gamers. What makes it a compelling NAS to own is the four-bay setup, capable Intel processor, and killer OS. Still, you need to use the best hard drives to get the most out of this server.
