LincStation N2: 30-second review
The LincStation N2 is a NAS and media server in one.
These bays are split between two SATA bays for standard 2.5-inch drives and four M.2.
But once you know the IP accessible through the tools tab, everything else should be relatively straightforward.
The processor and memory upgrades have also made this a far faster box than the original.
If you’re interested in taking a closer look and getting involved, head over to theKickstarter page.
In fact, you really wouldn’t be able to tell the difference initially.
As with the N1, there’s a flip-down front panel that exposes the two SATA drive bays.
When I booted the system, only five drives were detected instead of six.
These LEDs, while simple, are highly effective.
There’s also a DC power input.
This is an upgrade from the Intel Celeron N5105 Jasper Lake 2.9GHz found in the LincStation N1.
This is a huge upgrade from the 2.5Gbps Ethernet port that was featured on the N1.
Power consumption is also very lowjust 20W when idlemaking it a very cost-effective for any office.
You simply pull back the spring-loaded levers to insert each of the M.2 drives.
This will connect you to the start screen of the pre-installed Unraid OS.
The first step is to assign a password and click “Next.”
You’re then given the option to start the trial or purchase a licence.
If you prefer to use another OS, that is also possible.
With the Unraid initial setup complete, you enter the dashboard.
For this test, I’ve been running Unraid 7.0.1.
However, with the upgrade to Unraid 7.0.1, it is now possible to utilise the ZFS file system.
This means you no longer need a parity disk; instead, you might set up a pool gear.
The ZFS file system uses RAID-Z or mirroring, eliminating the need for a parity drive.
Additionally, because it uses RAID-Z instead of the parity drive method, write speeds are significantly faster.
you’re able to also assign different access permissions to users.
The process is very quick and user-friendly.
Some of theses apps also feature AI enhancements, which can be useful for organising image assets or photographs.
As with the N1 one of the key advantages of this system is the ability to install Plex.
This essentially enabled me to access them from any machine or mobile unit at home.
I could also configured remote access to these files.
Some manual internet configuration may be required, particularly if you have multiple devices and firewalls on your internet.
Of course there’s also the access to the full Plex library of films and TV shows.
The N2 is a nice compact NAS and media server, and the setup process is relatively straightforward.
LincPlus LincStation N2: Final verdict
I really like the design of the LinkStation N2.
Should I buy the LinkStation N2?
Value
Only available on Kickstarter at the moment, but the pricing makes it an exceptional option.
It provides excellent value for money compared to even some of the much more expensive options.
For more online grid-attached storage, we’ve rounded up thebest NAS hard drives.
