TrueNAS CORE
Most popularTrueNAS CORE is the free, open-source edition offering enterprise-grade features for personal and SOHO use.
- RAM: 8GB+ (16GB recommended)
- Feel: Robust and reliable
TrueNAS
Enterprise-grade NAS solution for everyone
Based on
FreeBSD
Desktop
None
Release cycle
Point release (~6 months)
Best for
NAS solutions
What is TrueNAS?
TrueNAS is an open-source network-attached storage (NAS) operating system based on FreeBSD. It provides enterprise-grade storage management features suitable for both home and business environments.
TrueNAS is known for its robust ZFS file system, data protection capabilities, and ease of use, making it ideal for users needing reliable, scalable, and secure storage solutions.
The philosophy of TrueNAS revolves around offering a high level of data security, integrity, and performance, built on a strong community-driven development process.
Editions
TrueNAS comes in multiple editions. Same base system, different interfaces.
TrueNAS Enterprise
EnterpriseTailored for businesses, offering advanced support and enterprise features.
- RAM: 16GB+ (32GB recommended)
- Feel: Professional and scalable
Key features
ZFS File System
Leverages the powerful ZFS file system for advanced data protection, integrity, and scalability.
Data Protection
Offers robust data protection features like snapshots, replication, and encryption.
Easy Management
User-friendly web interface for easy management and configuration of storage resources.
Cross-Platform Support
Compatible with various network protocols, ensuring smooth integration into diverse environments.
High Performance
Optimized for high-performance storage operations with efficient resource utilization.
Open Source
Fully open-source, allowing for community contributions and transparency in development.
System requirements
| Minimum | Recommended | |
|---|---|---|
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB+ |
| Storage | 16 GB | 100 GB+ |
| Display | 1024×768 | 1920×1080 |
| Boot | UEFI or Legacy BIOS | |
Featured in
TrueNAS appears in these recommendation lists.
FAQ
Is TrueNAS free to use?
Yes, TrueNAS CORE is free and open-source, providing enterprise-grade features for personal and small office use.
Is TrueNAS suitable for beginners?
TrueNAS offers a user-friendly interface, but some technical knowledge about NAS and storage systems will be beneficial.
Can I try TrueNAS without installing?
You can use TrueNAS in a virtual machine to explore its features before deploying on physical hardware.
What is the release cycle of TrueNAS?
TrueNAS follows a point release cycle, with new stable versions released approximately every six months.
Is TrueNAS compatible with common software?
TrueNAS supports various protocols like SMB, NFS, and iSCSI, making it compatible with many software environments.
What makes TrueNAS special compared to other NAS solutions?
TrueNAS is renowned for its ZFS file system, which provides superior data protection and scalability compared to other NAS solutions.
Ready to try TrueNAS?
Download the ISO and create a bootable USB to test it out.