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User recounts journey replacing aging Drobo storage device with modern network-attached storage (NAS) system

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A 17-Year-Old Storage Device Finally Died. Here’s What I Learned Replacing It

The author describes replacing a 17-year-old Drobo external storage device, which is no longer supported, with a new NAS (network-attached storage) system from Ugreen.

Key Details

  • The Drobo was purchased in 2009 and used for 17 years without failure.
  • In 2023, Drobo went out of business, prompting the search for a replacement.
  • The author found the NAS market complex, with enthusiasts using devices for streaming, gaming, and AI.
  • After research, the author chose a Ugreen DXP4800 Pro NAS on sale for $700, plus three WD Red Plus 4TB drives at ~$160 each.
  • Setup took under half an hour; the Ugreen app found the device on the network.
  • The author added a UPS ($80) and a network switch ($50) for protection and speed.
  • File transfer from the old Drobo took less than an hour on the upgraded network, compared to days before.

Background

"In 2023, Drobo went out of business, prompting the search for a replacement."

The author considered used hardware but decided against due to high prices and limited availability.

Options compared:

  • Synology: Strong software but dated hardware
  • QNAP: Competitive but complex
  • Asustor: Solid mid-range option
  • Ugreen: Intuitive interface, flexibility to install open-source OS

RAID configurations (RAID 1, 5, 6) needed to be understood; the old Drobo handled redundancy automatically.

"A NAS is not a complete backup solution."

The author emphasizes the 3-2-1 rule: three copies on two media types, one off-site.

Author's Experience

The author uses Ugreen's UGOS operating system and has also experimented with Jellyfin via Docker for media management.

Real-world uses:

  • Shared a folder with friends during a Pokémon Go trip
  • Delayed migrating archives; only new photos added to the photo management app
  • Has not yet explored advanced features like port forwarding, reverse proxies, or AI tools (OpenClaw) due to security concerns

"File transfer from the old Drobo took less than an hour on the upgraded network, compared to days before."

Total cost breakdown:

  • $700 – NAS unit
  • $500 – Hard drives (three WD Red Plus 4TB)
  • ~$130 – Accessories (UPS + network switch)
  • Total: approximately $1,300

The author notes that hard drive prices have risen ("RAMageddon") and feels the need for more storage but cannot afford it now.

Lessons Learned

  1. NAS is not a complete backup solution – Off-site backup is still necessary.
  2. Active use leads to demand for more storage – But costs are high.
  3. Help is available – Via Reddit, YouTube, and AI assistants.
  4. Expect limited audience interest – Few people outside NAS communities care about the device.

"The author found that few people outside NAS communities are interested in hearing about the device."