NAS vs cloud for small office files

Local NAS wins on latency and predictable monthly cost at steady state. Cloud wins on offsite durability and zero hardware trips. Most offices need a blend.

When NAS shines

Large media, CAD-ish files, or frequent multi-GB edits feel better on LAN. Keep snapshots and test restores – RAID is not backup. Pair with backup hygiene.

When cloud shines

Distributed teams, mobile access without VPN complexity, and vendor-managed durability. Watch egress fees and sharing controls. NIST cloud security references are heavy; even skimming the shared responsibility model helps: NIST SP 800-144.

Hybrid pattern

Active projects local, archives and email in cloud, with a documented sync tool and conflict policy. If that sounds like work, it is – we can help scope it: contact EasyGoinIT.