Translation guide
NAS (Network Attached Storage) is a dedicated file storage device connected to a network. In Japanese, it is commonly referred to by the English acronym 'NAS' or the full term 'ネットワーク接続ストレージ'. This guide covers how to talk about NAS devices, their functions, and related concepts in natural Japanese.
Referring to a NAS device or the concept of network-attached storage in general.
The most common and natural way to refer to a NAS device in Japanese. Pronounced 'ナス' (nasu). Used in both technical and consumer contexts.
I bought a new NAS.
Is setting up a NAS easy?
Explicitly says 'NAS device'. Used when distinguishing the hardware from the concept or when clarity is needed.
This NAS device can hold up to four hard disks.
Describing what you do with a NAS: storing files, sharing data, backing up, media streaming, etc.
Pattern for 'save files/data on the NAS'. The verb 保存する (hozon suru) means 'to save/store'.
I save photos on the NAS.
Pattern for 'share files/data via NAS'. 共有する (kyōyū suru) means 'to share'.
I share videos with my family via the NAS.
Pattern for 'back up to the NAS'. バックアップを取る (bakkuappu o toru) is the common phrase for 'to back up'.
Every night, I automatically back up to the NAS.
Pattern for 'use the NAS as a media server/file server'. として使う (toshite tsukau) means 'use as'.
Discussing technical aspects of a NAS: storage capacity, RAID configuration, network speed, etc.
Means 'NAS capacity'. 容量 (yōryō) is the standard term for storage capacity.
This NAS has a capacity of 4TB.
Means 'to set up RAID'. 組む (kumu) is used for configuring RAID arrays. Often used with NAS.
I have set up RAID 1 on the NAS.
In Japanese, 'NAS' is pronounced as ナス (nasu), similar to the vegetable 'eggplant' (茄子). Context usually makes the meaning clear, but in spoken conversation, you might clarify by saying 'NASの装置' (NAS no sōchi, NAS device) if needed.
An external hard drive connected via USB is usually called 外付けハードディスク (sotozuke hādo disuku) or simply 外付けHDD. A NAS is distinct because it connects via a network. Avoid calling a USB drive a NAS.
The full Japanese term, literally 'network-attached storage'. More formal and often used in technical documentation or when explaining the concept to non-experts.
Network-attached storage is convenient for sharing files among multiple users.
I use the NAS as a media server and watch movies on TV.
Means 'transfer speed'. Used when discussing network or disk performance of a NAS.
This NAS supports gigabit transfer speeds.