QNAP adds more features to its NAS with new firmware
I reviewed the QNAP TS-109 II NAS server a while ago and was happy with its Web interface, which is now about to get even better.
QNAP TS-109 II NAS server.
(Credit: Dong Ngo/CNET)QNAP announced Wednesday the latest upgrade of NAS management firmware that adds more functionality and ease of use to its NAS servers.
The new firmware version 3.1 includes two of new major functions: support for virtual disk and QNAP RAID Recovery that can recover a degraded or inactive RAID 1, 5, or 6 due to unintentional removal of drives. Other new features of the 3.1 firmware also include support for EXT4 file system (which allows for very large volumes and file sizes), SNMP support, and bitmap support for faster rebuilding of RAID volume after a crash or adding/removing a drive.
Other than than, other existing features also get enhanced. The Network Discovery Services now comes with new Bonjour support, offers zero-configuration networking for HTTP, SAMBA, FTP, AFP, and SSH based networks, and full UPnP support.
The new 3.1 NAS management firmware is completely overhauled with a new Ajax-based User Interface. This means novice users now can easily install and manage the NAS server on the network via simple wizards. The new Web-interface works with major browsers including Internet Explorer, Safari, Firefox and Google Chrome. It comes with three different color themes and supports instant switching between a long list of supported languages.
Starting July, new NAS servers from QNAP will be preloaded with the new firmware. Existing devices can be upgraded for free.
If you are the owner of the TS-109 II or any other QNAP NAS servers on this list, you can download and install the new firmware here.
Dong Ngo is a CNET editor who covers networking and network storage, and writes about anything else he finds interesting. You can also listen to his podcast at insidecnetlabs.cnet.com. E-mail Dong.
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