freenas-vs-ubuntu-linux

FreeNAS and Ubuntu Linux are both operating systems that businesses can use to add functionality to hardware, whether that be creating servers, supporting network attached storage and more. FreeNAS is an operating systems and software provider that provides support for network attached storage, though it can also support server creation.  Ubuntu Linux is one of the most popular distributions of Linux, and can support a wide variety of business tasks.  Ubuntu Linux is most popular with small businesses, likely due to its free price point, while FreeNAS is more popular with larger businesses that are looking to set up network attached storage solutions. 

Features

Both FreeNAS and Ubuntu Linux can be used to create servers, but they also have several unique features that set them apart from each other. 

The FreeNAS operating system is built to support network attached storage systems.  For businesses looking for a free way to turn their hardware into network attached storage devices, FreeNAS is a strong choice.  In addition, FreeNAS can also be used to create servers. The specificity of FreeNAS makes it easy to set up, and highly efficient at the tasks it excels at.  

Ubuntu Linux is a popular, free to use distribution of Linux.  Businesses use Ubuntu Linux for a wide variety of tasks, from supporting employee workstations to creating and managing servers.  Ubuntu Linux also offers a server version including specialized features for server management. Ubuntu Linus is a strong choice for businesses that want a flexible operating system, or one that they can use for multiple tasks across their organization.

Limitations

Though FreeNAS and Ubuntu Linux are both operating systems that can extend the usability of hardware, they also have some limitations that are important to consider.

FreeNAS is a strong choice for businesses that want to create servers or support a network attached storage solution, but it isn’t as flexible as other options.  Businesses that want to use one operating system for a wide variety of tasks may prefer a versatile solution like Ubuntu Linux.  Additionally, for businesses that can’t take advantage of the specialized network attached storage features, Ubuntu Linux may be preferred.

Ubuntu Linux is designed as a versatile operating system, but it doesn’t offer the specialized features FreeNAS does for network attached storage systems.  For businesses looking for a network attached storage solution, FreeNAS is more specialized, and also offers hardware packages so businesses can have a working solution out of the box.

Pricing

Both FreeNAS and Ubuntu Linux are available for free. FreeNAS does offer NAS packages including hardware, which start as low as $700.