Updating the 2012 AnandTech SMB / SOHO NAS Testbed

In early September, we published a piece detailing our SMB / SOHO NAS testbed. Subsequently, we received extensive feedback from readers regarding the testbed as well as the proposed testing methodology. The universal consensus was that the VM (virtual machine) density could be increased (given the dual Xeon processors and the minimal load on the CPU from the workload). Readers also helpfully pointed out traces that could potentially replicate NAS (Network Attached Storage) usage in typical home scenarios.

We set out to implement the suggestions within the constraints of the existing workstation. Between the set up of the original testbed and the beginning of the update process, NAS vendors also started offering rackmount units with 10 GbE capability. Netgear graciously accepted our request to participate in our upgrade process by providing us with a 10 GbE capable switch. Read on to find out the how we went about updating the testbed and some results from putting the Thecus N4800 under the scanner with the new environment.