Files stored on your networked computers can be backed up to the TeraStation using the included Memeo AutoBackup software, which works automatically in the background. The contents of the TeraStation itself can then be backed up to another NAS on a schedule and there's support for incremental and versioned backups. It's a nicely designed backup system, although more demanding users on your network may prefer the more sophisticated Acronis TrueImage backup client software included with Seagate's BlackArmor NAS devices.
Although the TeraStation is aimed at small and medium sized businesses, some consumer features have crept in. It can be configured as a media server so it can stream videos, music and photos to a network media player. Potentially more useful is the ability to download BitTorrent-hosted files, such as Linux distributions, without the aid of a computer. The BitTorrent download management interface can only be accessed from the main web management interface. This may be preferable if you don't any users on your network at all downloading illicit files, but inconvenient if you want to let a few trusted users use BitTorrent but don't want them fiddling with the other settings.
Verdict
We weren't expecting much from Buffalo's TeraStation III due to its staid appearance, but were pleasantly surprised by its appealing and well-designed web management interface and generally fast performance. Its slow speeds copying small files is disappointing and the lockable front door could be strengthened, but if you can live with these flaws then the TeraStation is a great NAS.
Storage: 4 x 500GB hard disks Ports: 2x USB 2.0, 1x serial RAID: JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10 Network: 2 x Gigabit Ethernet Management: Web browser
