Tips for Choosing the Ethernet External Hard Drives
Ethernet external hard drives are a type of storage device that can be connected to a network using an Ethernet cable. This allows for easy access and sharing of files across multiple devices on the same network. Ethernet external hard drives are particularly useful for small businesses or home offices that require fast and efficient file sharing.
Benefits of Ethernet External Hard Drives
One of the main advantages of Ethernet external hard drives is their speed. Since they are connected to the network via Ethernet, data transfer rates are much faster than traditional USB external hard drives. This means that you can access and transfer files quickly, even with large amounts of data.
Another benefit of Ethernet external hard drives is their ability to be accessed remotely. As long as you have an internet connection, you can access the files on your Ethernet external hard drive from anywhere in the world. This makes it easy to share files with team members or clients, even if they are not physically present in the same location.
Features to Consider
When shopping for an Ethernet external hard drive, there are several important features to consider.
- Capacity: Ethernet external hard drives come in a range of capacities, from a few hundred gigabytes to several terabytes. Consider how much storage space you will need for your files and choose a drive with enough capacity to meet your needs.
- Compatibility: Make sure that the Ethernet external hard drive you choose is compatible with your operating system and network setup. Most Ethernet external hard drives will work with both Mac and PC, but it is always best to double-check before purchasing.
- Security: Consider the security features of the Ethernet external hard drive you are considering. Some drives come with built-in encryption to protect your files, while others may require you to set up password protection or other security measures.
- Additional features: Some Ethernet external hard drives come with additional features, such as the ability to act as a media server or backup device. These features can be useful, but consider whether you will actually use them before spending extra money on them.
Conclusion
Ethernet external hard drives are a convenient and efficient way to store and share files on a network. With their fast data transfer speeds and ability to be accessed remotely, they are a valuable asset for small businesses and home offices. When shopping for an Ethernet external hard drive, consider its capacity, compatibility, security features, and any additional features it may offer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you connect an external hard drive via Ethernet?
Yes, you can connect an external hard drive via Ethernet if the hard drive has its own Ethernet port. Simply plug the hard drive into its power supply, connect it to the router using an Ethernet cable, and it will appear in the Network window along with other shared drives on the network.
2. Do external hard drives need Internet?
No, external hard drives do not require an internet connection to access files. They can be disconnected from your computer and used for backing up files or storing data. External hard drives can be connected to your computer using various interfaces such as USB or FireWire.
3. Does USB over Ethernet work?
Yes, USB over Ethernet adapters can be used to connect to a wired LAN, router, or modem if your computer lacks an Ethernet port. By using a USB to Ethernet adapter, you can enable Ethernet connectivity by plugging in the Ethernet cable into the dongle.
4. How do I convert my USB hard drive to Ethernet?
To convert a USB hard drive to Ethernet, first, plug the NAS adapter power cable into the power port. Then, connect your USB external hard drive to the NAS adapter's USB port. Finally, connect the NAS adapter to your router using an Ethernet cable.
5. Is Ethernet over USB slower?
Ethernet transfer speeds can vary depending on the type of Ethernet connection and can range from 10 Mbps to 10 Gbps. USB transfer speeds, on the other hand, can range from 12 Mbps to 40 Gbps. Generally, Ethernet connections offer faster speeds than USB connections.
6. Can you make an external hard drive a network drive?
Yes, you can turn an external hard drive into a network drive. This allows you to access your files even when your computer is turned off. By setting up a network drive, you can store and access your files from multiple devices without needing to keep your PC constantly running.
7. What are the negatives of external hard drives?
While external hard drives are a convenient storage solution, they can still have some downsides. They can be susceptible to damage from fire and water, can overheat, and can potentially malfunction. It's important to regularly back up your data and ensure you have a reliable backup solution to avoid data loss.
Editor's Notes
During our ethernet external hard drive research, we found 24 ethernet external hard drive products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,391,210 customer reviews through our big data system to write the ethernet external hard drives list. We found that most customers choose ethernet external hard drives with an average price of $124.58.
The ethernet external hard drives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of ethernet external hard drives, including Seagate, SSK, BUFFALO, SanDisk Professional, Western Digital. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.
