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Must read for home NAS users!
Never buy a NAS that can’t take snapshots!
Guide to Home Data Protection Against Ransomware
A snapshot a day keeps data loss away!
Data Protection Step #1
Check if your NAS supports Snapshots
Taking a snapshot is like taking a photo - within seconds the complete status of your system and data is recorded. While all QNAP NAS support snapshots, not all NAS manufacturers have added Snapshot support to their devices.
All QNAP NAS features Snapshots. Always buy a NAS that takes Snapshots!
Data Protection Step #2
Routinely back up to your NAS
Always remember to back up! You should routinely (or automatically) back up the files and data from your computers to your NAS. Windows® users can use the free NetBak Replicator utility, and macOS® users can use Time Machine®. The NAS app Hybrid Backup Sync can also be used to back up and synchronize files and data.
Data Protection Step #3
Create multi-version backups with NAS Snapshots
After backing up files, use the “Storage and Snapshots” app to create multi-version snapshots of your NAS. The resulting snapshot files are lightweight and can be quickly backed up to another QNAP NAS or device to double your data protection without requiring much storage space.
Note: The maximum number of snapshots is based on your NAS model and installed memory. Please refer to Volume & LUN Snapshots for more information.
Now your data is secure and easily recoverable!
QNAP's block-based snapshots are separate from the file system and remain safe even if the file system is affected by ransomware. You can select a snapshot version from a specific time point to quickly restore original, unencrypted files and system data.
What to do when ransomware strikes
We simulated a ransomware attack in the QNAP Lab, and confirmed that the following steps can effectively restore data.
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1
As soon as you notice ransomware activity or are presented with a ransom message, immediately disconnect your computer from the internet. You should also disconnect the infected computer from the network - including removing cables (where possible).
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2
If you have a NAS with HDMI output, connect a mouse, keyboard, and monitor to the NAS. This will allow you to directly access the NAS using HybridDesk Station. If your NAS lacks HDMI output, you must ensure that your computer does not mount any infected shared folders until the snapshot is restored.
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3
On your NAS, open “Storage & Snapshots”, and select “Snapshots” to see a list of snapshot files arranged neatly by time.
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4
Select a snapshot taken before the ransomware attack and restore it to a new folder. Your files should now be recovered and ready to use. The files in the infected folder can now be deleted.
Recommended QNAP NAS for homes
Always remember to back up your files and use snapshots. Here are some recommended QNAP NAS that provide dependable protection against ransomware without breaking the bank.
TS-233 |
HS-264 |
TS-364 |
TS-431P3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-bay | 2-bay Built-in 2.5GbE ports |
3-bay Built-in 2.5GbE port |
4-bay Built-in 2.5GbE port |
| ARM 4-core Cortex-A55 2.0 GHz processor | Intel® Celeron® N5105 4-core/4-thread processor, burst up to 2.9 GHz | Intel® Celeron® N5105/N5095 4-core/4-thread processor, burst up to 2.9 GHz | AnnapurnaLabs, an Amazon company Alpine AL314, 4-core, 1.7 GHz |
Note: A minimum of 1GB memory is required to use Snapshots
