CompTIA Cloud+ Practice Test

What is the primary difference between NAS and DAS?

1. NAS cannot be shared and accessed by multiple computers.

2. DAS provides fault tolerance

3. DAS does not connect to networked storage devices

4. NAS uses an HBA and DAS does not

The correct answer is: DAS does not connect to networked storage devices

The primary distinction between Network Attached Storage (NAS) and Direct Attached Storage (DAS) lies in how they connect to and interact with other devices. NAS is a dedicated file storage device that connects to a network, allowing multiple clients and devices to access it over that network. This facilitates resource sharing among various users and devices in an efficient manner. On the other hand, DAS is directly connected to a single computer or device, usually through interfaces such as USB, SAS, or SATA. This means that DAS is not meant for sharing files across a network; instead, it is designed for local access by one system at a time. The option that states DAS does not connect to networked storage devices accurately describes this characteristic of DAS as a localized storage solution, distinguishing it from NAS, which is specifically designed for access over a network. In contrast, NAS typically employs network protocols like NFS or SMB, enabling multiple systems to access the same storage resources simultaneously. The focus on connectivity differences highlights the fundamental operational approach between the two, where NAS supports a collaborative environment through network access, while DAS is limited to direct access by a single computer device.