Connection speeds / Array drive setup / Cache drive

[Dominoes0522]

Hi All,

 

I'm about to build my first DIY NAS / server, which initially will be first and foremost a NAS, but in time I will probably also want to run a media server (i.e plex), VM's, Docker containers, home security etc. Not very clued up so far on my options, but just trying to purchase the (best or correct) hardware for my needs before starting the build.

 

I have attached my basic network diagram. I'm trying to figure out how I can get the best transfer speeds possible based on the limitations of my existing hardware.

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My Mini PC OPNsense router has 2.5gB ethernet ports (1 WAN, 3 LAN). Plan is to connect the NAS/Server to the spare LAN port.

The motherboard I'm planning to use in the NAS build has 1gb ethernet port.

The windows desktop has 2.5gb ethernet port on the motherboard.

The Linux box has 1gb ethernet port.

Question I have is, does it make sense to change the linux box for one with 2.5gb port, and install a 2.5gb PCIe card in the NAS so I'm running everything on 2.5gb ports, so transfers on the LAN side are faster?

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For drives, I currently have 3x 4TB HDD's, I plan to buy more drives to extend my storage to 20-24TB usable space. I think I also need at least one parity drive which is the largest? Does this depend on what type of RAID configuration I choose?

 

Could I do something like this (and would it be suitable / recommended)?

(4) + (4) + (4) + 4 + 4 + 6(P)

or

(4) + (4) + (4) + 6 + 6 + 6(P)

 

What type of RAID configuration would these be, and are there better options available for at least 20TB of usable space within the 6 drive limit of the starter license ?

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And lastly, Based on the limitations of my existing hardware, does it make sense to use a cache drive? I already have a PCIe 3.0 500GB Samsung 970 EVO NVMe, and the motherboard going in the NAS has 2x M.2 slots, one is PCIe 3.0 and the other is PCIe 2.0. Does this NVMe I have sound suitable if used in the PCIe 3.0 slot to get the best transfer speeds based on everything else?

 

Hopefully with some guidance, I can purchase the rest of the components for the rig to get started with the Unraid installation and configuration.

 

Many Thanks,

Paul

 

 

[Dominoes0522]

I decided to order 2 of these so I'll have 2.5GBe ports for all of the LAN side of the OPNsense router.

 

Now just got to figure out what drives I need.