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NAS definition - telecom
  1. Network Access Server. A host computer on a local area network (LAN) dedicated to serve the needs of end users seeking access to internal computer resources or perhaps to the Internet through an Internet service provider (ISP). An NAS generally is associated with a Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS) server that performs authentication and accounting functions to ensure network security. See also authentication, ISP, LAN, RADIUS, RAS, and security.
  2. Network-Attached Storage. A simple storage technology in which one or more disk arrays or other storage devices are associated with a server that exists as a node on a LAN.The storage server assumes the responsibility for all data storage and for making the data available to all users with access privileges. A storage area network (SAN) is a much more sophisticated approach. See also LAN, node, SAN, and server.

Webster's New World Telecom Dictionary Copyright © 2008 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Indianapolis, Indiana.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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