Which of the following is a basic difference between DAS and NAS?

The fundamental difference highlighted in the correct choice is that Direct Attached Storage (DAS) is directly connected to a server, allowing for high-speed data transfer without the need for a network. This setup typically involves connecting the storage devices, such as hard drives or SSDs, directly to the server’s motherboard or through an interface like USB or SATA. This makes DAS suitable for environments where performance is critical, since it eliminates network latency.

In contrast, Network Attached Storage (NAS) connects to a network via IP networking, acting as a dedicated file storage device that can be accessed by multiple servers or clients across the network. Because it operates over network protocols, the accessibility and management features of NAS can be utilized by many users simultaneously, making it ideal for collaborative environments.

The other choices suggest misconceptions about the characteristics of each storage type. For instance, while NAS often utilizes network protocols like NFS for efficient access, its performance isn't solely dictated by this, as various factors come into play including network speed. The assertion that DAS operates its own operating system is also misleading; typically, DAS does not have its own OS and relies on the host server’s operating system for data management. Similarly, although Fibre Channel can be used for NAS systems, it is not a