Qnap TS-119+ network hard disk (NAS) device

We have reviewed a few network storage devices from Qnap before but the TS-119+ stands out thanks to a rather smart new design.

Aside from the black plastic front panel the rest of this network-attached storage (Nas) device is finished in dark grey metal, and the effect is pleasantly understated compared to the glossy white boxes elsewhere in the range and made by other manufacturers.

This model requires one hard disk in the 3.5in size commonly used by desktop computers, which is fitted into a sliding caddy accessed via the front panel. The caddy slides easily in and out, making the TS-119+ easier to set up than some rivals, but the job still requires a screwdriver. With a disk inside it, using the device was a matter of plugging it into the router with a network cable and using the software CD provided.

A small utility provided on the CD – also available on the company's website – is used to locate the device on your home network and set it up for use. After that, all configuration is done by connecting to the TS-119+ through a web browser. Formatting and configuring the disk for use didn't take long, but we had to download a firmware update from the Qnap website, something that could have been made easier.

Like other Qnap devices, the TS-119+ will appear as a storage device on your network, but by connecting to it with a web browser you can set up dozens of other options including password-protected storage for several users or sharing music and video files. The sheer range of options can be a little overwhelming, but everything worked perfectly.

Our only complaint, really, is the price. For £210 you get just about everything you could want from a single-disk Nas device, but having only one disk slot is limiting: you cannot add a second for more storage or, more usefully, set it up with two so your files are protected against disk failure.

Qnap's own TS-210 (see sidebar) may not look as swish, but with two slots inside it's more versatile, and at over £50 cheaper it's better value, too.