Storage requirements for a gaming NAS
Factors to consider
When setting up a gaming NAS (Network Attached Storage), it's important to consider several factors to ensure you have enough storage capacity and performance for your gaming needs. Here are the key aspects to consider:
1. Game installations
The size of game installations varies widely depending on the title, but it's not uncommon for modern AAA games to require 50-100 GB of storage space. Factor in the number of games you plan to install on the NAS and allocate enough storage capacity accordingly.
2. Downloadable content (DLC)
DLCs can significantly expand the storage requirements of games, especially if you enjoy playing titles with extensive additional content. Take into account the number of DLCs you are likely to download and allocate additional storage space accordingly.
3. Game updates and patches
Regular updates and patches are common for games, which can range from a few hundred megabytes to several gigabytes in size. Consider the frequency of updates and allocate storage capacity to accommodate these updates over time.
4. Game capture and streaming
If you plan to capture and store gameplay footage, or engage in live streaming, additional space will be needed for video files. Depending on the video quality and length of gameplay recordings, allocate enough storage capacity accordingly.
5. RAID configuration and redundancy
Consider implementing a RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) configuration on your NAS for data redundancy and increased performance. RAID configurations such as RAID 1 (mirroring) or RAID 5 (striping with parity) can ensure data reliability while maintaining sufficient storage capacity.
6. Scalability and future-proofing
Anticipate future storage needs and opt for a NAS system that supports easy expansion through additional drive bays or external storage options. This allows you to add more storage capacity as your gaming library grows or as new games with larger storage requirements are released.
Summary
To determine the exact storage requirements for your gaming NAS, consider the number and size of game installations, downloadable content, updates, and patches, as well as the storage needs for game capture and streaming. Implementing a RAID configuration and planning for future scalability will help ensure you have enough storage capacity and performance for your gaming needs.
