NAS for database sharing

[htsource]

I was just wondering if NAS is suitable for sharing files such as databases (QuickBooks, POS, etc.)? I recently run into a client where I can't use a single drive NAS for hosting the database for sharing - complains about some file access issues when 2nd user tried to open the same file. However, sharing off a XP PC works fine.

I have a few requests now for hosting company data centrally, preferable on a mirrored NAS.

Thanks for your suggestions.

 

[iptech]

I have a client who runs an Access database across a 10 user workgroup from a Buffalo Linkstation. These allow for individual usergroup and user account security entries and so are ideal for small Workgroups where a dedicated server would be too expensive and/or impractical. I've also used one of these for a VisualFoxPro database without any issues.

They're a nice-cost effective solution for small businesses.

 

[tkrabec]

Quickbooks I'd say no, other databases, like an access based DB i'd say ok, but keep good backups. A SQL database, no.

 

[MHCG]

Quickbooks I'd say no, other databases, like an access based DB i'd say ok, but keep good backups. A SQL database, no.

Some NAS have MySQL built into them.

 

[pmcross]

NAS Box

There are a few NAS apps out there that you can try, one of them is FreeNAS and the other is Openfiler. I have tried both and then I decided to go to Ubuntu, it is running on a Dell GX1 with 384MB of RAM and I get better transfer rates than I ever did with FreeNAS, Openfiler, or Linksys NAS box. I just installed samba and that was it

 

[iptech]

Quickbooks is a nightmare across a network - all data is stored in a single file so massive chunks of data have to be pulled before a user can make any input or enquiry.

QB was originally designed for very small businesses running a single PC for accounting purposes and as such its multi-user capabilities are very limited due to its file structure.

 

[htsource]

I talked to one of the local shop and they gave me the DLink NAS-323 to try out, working out fine. Now the client called to network their printer and it's a bonus the DLink has USB printing built-in to the NAS, he would be impressed

Thanks guys for your suggestions. QuickBooks is awful and once I needed to make the sharing to work in Vista Basic with very limited sharing ability, almost gave up!

 

[tartis]

Quickbooks is a nightmare across a network - all data is stored in a single file so massive chunks of data have to be pulled before a user can make any input or enquiry.

QB was originally designed for very small businesses running a single PC for accounting purposes and as such its multi-user capabilities are very limited due to its file structure.

I have a customer that runs Quickbooks (Multi User) off of the network, and it works just fine. It runs off of a Windows 2003 Server, and the financial data is backed up everynight via tape (thank god).