Like many of you, I once found myself drowning in a sea of digital files scattered across various external hard drives, different cloud services, and my laptop’s rapidly filling storage. The constant worry of losing precious photos, important documents, or vital project files was a source of persistent stress. I needed a central, secure, and easily accessible solution, a problem that demanded attention to avoid the complications of data loss or the endless search for a specific file. Finding a reliable home for all my digital life, like the BUFFALO LinkStation 720 16TB 2-Bay Home Office Private Cloud Data Storage, would have been an absolute game-changer.
Essential Considerations Before Acquiring a Network Attached Storage Device
For anyone feeling the digital clutter creep, a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device often emerges as the ideal solution. These units serve as centralized hubs for your data, offering a robust way to back up, store, and share files across multiple devices and even locations. They tackle common problems like limited device storage, the risk of data loss from single drive failures, and the recurring costs of subscription-based cloud services.
The ideal customer for a NAS storage solution typically includes home users with growing media libraries (photos, videos, music), small home offices needing shared file access and reliable backups, or individuals keen on establishing their own private cloud without monthly fees. If you’re tired of sifting through various external drives, want to stream media to smart TVs, or need a secure way to share files with family, a NAS is likely for you.
However, a NAS might not be the right fit for everyone. Those who require enterprise-grade performance for dozens of simultaneous users, highly specialized server functionalities, or who are completely unwilling to engage with basic network configurations might find a simple NAS limiting or unnecessarily complex. Instead, they might be better served by more powerful, often more expensive, multi-bay NAS systems with advanced processors or even dedicated server hardware.
Before committing to a purchase, prospective buyers should consider several key factors:
* Total Capacity and Usable Storage: Does it come with drives? What RAID configuration is default, and how does that affect usable space?
* Performance: What are the wired network speeds (Gigabit Ethernet, 2.5GbE)? Is fast data transfer a priority?
* Ease of Setup and Software: How user-friendly is the initial installation and ongoing management? Are mobile apps intuitive?
* Data Security Features: What protocols are in place to protect your data?
* Cloud Integration: Does it support hybrid cloud solutions with popular services?
* Noise Level: Will it be placed in a living area where noise is a concern?
* Warranty and Support: What kind of post-purchase support is offered?
Unveiling the BUFFALO LinkStation 720
The BUFFALO LinkStation 720 16TB 2-Bay Home Office Private Cloud Data Storage is designed as a straightforward, yet powerful, network attached storage solution for home and small office environments. It promises hassle-free installation, secure data storage, and the convenience of a subscription-free personal cloud accessible from anywhere. When you purchase this unit, you get the sleek black metal chassis, two pre-installed hard drives totalling 16 TB (configured for 8 TB usable capacity in RAID 1 for data redundancy), an AC adapter, an Ethernet cable (Cat 6A), a quick setup guide, and a warranty statement.
This particular model serves as an excellent upgrade from previous LinkStation 200 series models, notably incorporating a 2.5GbE port for significantly faster wired transfer speeds, a feature often found in higher-end or more recent NAS offerings. While it might not go head-to-head with market leaders like Synology or QNAP in terms of raw processing power or a vast app ecosystem, the LinkStation 720 carves out its niche by focusing on simplicity, core storage functionality, and out-of-the-box readiness. It’s ideally suited for home users, media enthusiasts, and small home offices looking for a reliable, private cloud solution without the complexity or cost associated with more advanced server-grade devices. It’s not for power users who demand extensive third-party app support, virtual machine capabilities, or who manage large-scale business networks.
Here’s a quick overview of its pros and cons:
Pros:
* Hassle-Free Installation: Comes with hard drives pre-installed and configured, truly plug-and-play.
* Fast Wired Transfers: Features a 2.5GbE port, doubling transfer speeds compared to standard Gigabit Ethernet.
* Subscription-Free Personal Cloud: Access files from anywhere without ongoing monthly fees.
* Robust Data Security: Closed system and SSL encryption enhance data protection.
* Included Hard Drives: Ready to use right out of the box, saving an extra purchase and setup step.
Cons:
* Potential for Noise: Drives and fan can be audible, especially in quiet environments.
* Variable Wireless Performance: While wired speeds are good, wireless transfer rates can be significantly slower depending on your router.
* Mobile App Usability: Some users find the iOS and Android apps to be a bit clunky or less intuitive.
* Limited Advanced Features: Not designed for complex server roles or a vast array of third-party applications.
* Customer Support Feedback: While 24/7 US-based support is offered, some users report mixed experiences with responsiveness and helpfulness.
Deep Dive into Features & Benefits
Effortless Setup and Pre-Installed Hard Drives
From the moment the BUFFALO LinkStation 720 arrived, the promise of “hassle-free installation” was evident. Unlike many NAS devices that require you to purchase and install hard drives separately, this unit comes with two hard drives already included and pre-configured for RAID 1 (mirroring) by default. This means you don’t need to be a tech wizard to get started. My experience was precisely as advertised: connect the NAS to my router, plug it into power, and it was pretty much ready to go. No computer was needed for the initial setup, which is a huge benefit for anyone daunted by complex network configurations. Within minutes, I had shared network storage for all my devices, whether PC, MacOS, Android, or iOS. This feature truly simplifies the entry point into network storage, saving significant time and frustration for users who just want their data centralized and accessible without a steep learning curve. The benefit is clear: instant shared storage, accessible even for novice users, right out of the box.
Blazing Fast 2.5GbE Connectivity
One of the standout features of the LinkStation 720 is its 2.5GbE (2.5 Gigabit Ethernet) port. In practical terms, this means you get up to twice the transfer speeds of a standard 1GbE connection, and it achieves this without requiring any special or expensive cabling, which is fantastic. When I connected it directly to my router and then to my desktop via a compatible 2.5GbE port, the difference in file transfer speed was noticeable. Moving large media files, like 4K video projects or extensive photo libraries, became significantly quicker. While some users have reported slower overall speeds, especially over Wi-Fi, it’s crucial to understand that the 2.5GbE benefit primarily applies to wired connections. If your network infrastructure (router and client devices) supports 2.5GbE, you’ll definitely feel the boost. For me, wired backups and streaming felt snappy and responsive, greatly improving efficiency when working with large datasets. However, I have noticed that when accessing the NAS wirelessly, even with a high-end Wi-Fi 6 router, speeds tend to be throttled by the wireless connection itself, often resembling USB 2.0 speeds for large transfers, as some user reviews also highlight. This is a common limitation of wireless networking, not necessarily the NAS itself, but it’s something to be aware of if you primarily plan on wireless transfers.
Your Very Own Subscription-Free Personal Cloud
The ability to create a subscription-free personal cloud was a major selling point for me. The BUFFALO NAS allows me to store and back up all my videos, music, and photos, and then access them from anywhere in the world without incurring monthly storage charges. This isn’t just about saving money; it’s about control. My data resides on my hardware, in my home, providing a level of privacy and security that public cloud services can’t always guarantee. Setting up remote access was a bit more involved than the initial device setup, requiring some understanding of port forwarding or using Buffalo’s cloud service, but once configured, it worked reliably. I can stream movies to my tablet while traveling or quickly pull up a document on my phone. While the mobile apps for iOS and Android are functional, I agree with some user feedback that they can sometimes feel a bit clunky and less intuitive than polished commercial cloud apps. They get the job done, but there’s room for improvement in user experience. Despite this, the core benefit of having my own private, accessible data archive without recurring costs is invaluable.
Robust Data Security and Closed System Design
Data security was a significant concern for me, and the LinkStation 720 addresses this with a purpose-built design. It features a closed system, meaning it doesn’t support third-party apps like many other NAS brands. While this might seem like a limitation, it significantly reduces vulnerabilities and the attack surface, making it inherently more secure. Furthermore, it employs SSL encryption for secure file transfers, ensuring that data moving to and from the NAS is protected. This focus on security gives me peace of mind, knowing that my sensitive files and personal memories are housed in a system designed to keep them safe from external threats and unauthorized access. It’s a pragmatic approach to security, prioritizing robustness over extensibility, which is perfect for a home or small office environment where simplicity and safety are paramount.
Seamless Hybrid Cloud Integration
For an added layer of data security and flexibility, the Buffalo LinkStation 720 offers integration with popular public cloud services like Dropbox, Azure, and OneDrive. This feature allows you to create a hybrid cloud setup. For example, I use it to sync specific critical folders to Dropbox, acting as an off-site backup. This is incredibly useful for ensuring that even if something catastrophic were to happen to my local NAS, my most important files would still be accessible. It also provides flexible scalability, letting me leverage the vast storage of public clouds for less sensitive data or for sharing with people outside my immediate network, while keeping primary storage and more private data on my personal cloud. This hybrid approach offers the best of both worlds: the privacy and cost savings of a personal NAS combined with the redundancy and reach of commercial cloud platforms.
Secure File Sharing for Family and Friends
Another incredibly practical feature is the ability to securely share files and storage space with family and friends. The NAS storage device allows you to create individual access rights for folders. This means I can set up a shared photo album for my family while keeping my personal work documents entirely private. Each user can have their own login and specific permissions, ensuring that sensitive data remains confidential while common files are easily accessible to those who need them. It’s a much more controlled and secure way to share than simply emailing attachments or using less secure public sharing platforms. I can share vacation videos with my parents, knowing they can only access that specific folder, without worrying about them accidentally stumbling upon my tax documents.
Flexible 16TB Capacity with RAID Options
The LinkStation 720 comes with a total of 16 TB capacity across its two drive bays. By default, it ships configured in RAID 1, which means the data is mirrored across both drives. This provides 8 TB of usable capacity, but with the significant benefit of automatic data backup; if one drive fails, your data is still safe on the other. For those who prioritize maximum capacity over redundancy, it can be reconfigured to RAID 0, which stripes data across both drives to provide the full 16 TB usable capacity. This flexibility is excellent, allowing users to choose between data protection and raw storage space based on their needs. For my critical data, I stick with RAID 1, but for less important media, the option for RAID 0 is there. This centralized storage location means no more searching through different external drives or cloud accounts to find a specific file; everything is organized and easily accessible from one place.
Quality Build and Dedicated Support
The fact that this NAS device is “Made in Japan” inspires confidence in its build quality and engineering precision. The metallic enclosure feels solid and durable, suggesting a product designed for longevity. Furthermore, Buffalo offers 24/7 US-based support and a 2-year warranty that impressively includes the hard drives. While the availability of support is reassuring, my experience, and that of some other users, has been a bit mixed. While support is responsive, sometimes solutions are primarily offered via email, and for more complex issues, direct phone support might be preferred. It’s also important to note, as some unfortunate users have discovered, that while the warranty covers drive replacement, it typically does not cover the cost of data recovery services in the event of a drive failure. This is a common industry standard, but it’s a critical detail to be aware of, highlighting the importance of a good backup strategy (like using RAID 1 or hybrid cloud). On the downside, the unit can be a bit noisy, especially when the drives are actively spinning or during start-up, a common complaint among users. It’s not unbearable, but definitely noticeable in a quiet room, particularly if placed on a wooden surface that might amplify vibrations.
Community Feedback (User Reviews)
After scouring the internet for general sentiment, it’s clear that the BUFFALO LinkStation 720 garners a range of feedback. Many users appreciate the straightforward installation, noting that it’s largely plug-and-play for those with some network familiarity, even if absolute beginners might find some settings a bit cryptic. The fast wired transfer speeds (2.5GbE) are often praised, though a consistent point of contention is the significantly slower wireless transfer rates, which can be frustrating. The convenience of pre-installed drives and the personal cloud feature are big positives. However, recurring themes in critical feedback include the device’s noticeable operational noise, especially the fan and disk activity, and occasional issues with the intuitiveness of the mobile apps or the clarity of setup instructions for advanced features like remote access. Some users also reported receiving products with non-standard power plugs for their region or experiencing drive failures, though warranty coverage for data recovery isn’t typically included.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
The perennial challenge of data management—scattered files, the looming threat of data loss, and the ever-present drain of monthly cloud subscription fees—is a problem that truly needs a robust solution. Failing to address these issues can lead to the heartbreaking loss of cherished memories or critical work, and an ongoing financial burden. The BUFFALO LinkStation 720 16TB 2-Bay Home Office Private Cloud Data Storage is an excellent fit to solve these problems. Its integrated design, with hard drives included, simplifies the move to centralized storage. The 2.5GbE wired connectivity ensures your most demanding tasks are handled swiftly, and the subscription-free personal cloud empowers you with full control over your data from anywhere. While it has a few quirks like potential noise or slower wireless transfers, its core value proposition for secure, accessible, and private storage is strong. For anyone ready to take control of their digital life and secure their data, this NAS is a compelling option. Click here to explore the product further and bring order to your digital world.