Setting up a remote NAS (Network Attached Storage) system has become increasingly essential for those who want secure, centralized file access from anywhere in the world. Whether for personal backups, multimedia streaming, or collaborative projects, leveraging OpenMediaVault and Meshnet can help you create a robust and accessible NAS setup. OpenMediaVault is a free and open-source NAS solution, while Meshnet, provided by NordVPN, enables seamless remote connectivity. Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up a remote NAS using these tools.
Understanding the Tools: OpenMediaVault and Meshnet
OpenMediaVault (OMV) is a versatile and highly configurable NAS operating system based on Debian Linux. It allows users to turn a basic computer or single-board device, such as a Raspberry Pi, into a dedicated storage server. With OMV, you can manage file sharing, RAID arrays, user permissions, and more through a simple web-based interface.
Meshnet, on the other hand, is a peer-to-peer networking feature by NordVPN that lets you connect multiple devices securely over the internet. Unlike traditional VPN setups that route through external servers, Meshnet creates a private network where your devices directly communicate. This is especially beneficial when you want to access your NAS remotely without compromising security.
Setting Up OpenMediaVault on Your Server
To begin, you need to install OpenMediaVault on the machine you want to use as your NAS server. For this process, ensure your device has sufficient storage and is connected to a reliable network.
Start by downloading the latest version of OpenMediaVault from its official website. You will need to create a bootable USB drive using software like Rufus or BalenaEtcher. Once your USB drive is ready, boot the machine from it and follow the installation prompts. During installation, configure the root password and select the appropriate hard drives to be used for storage.
After installation, access the OMV web interface by entering the device’s IP address in your browser. Log in using the default credentials (admin for the username and openmediavault for the password). Once inside, you can configure your storage drives, create shared folders, and set up user permissions. OpenMediaVault supports protocols like SMB/CIFS, NFS, and FTP, making it easy to share files across different operating systems.
Ensure you enable and test your file-sharing options locally before proceeding to remote access. At this stage, your NAS is functional but can only be accessed on the local network.
Configuring Meshnet for Remote Connectivity
With OpenMediaVault configured, the next step is to set up Meshnet to access your NAS remotely. Start by installing NordVPN and enabling Meshnet on both the NAS server and the remote device you intend to use. If your NAS server is running a Linux-based OS (like OpenMediaVault), you can install NordVPN CLI tools to activate Meshnet.
Once NordVPN is installed, log in to your account and enable Meshnet with a simple command like:
nordvpn meshnet –enable
You will see the unique Meshnet IP address assigned to the device. Make a note of this IP, as you will use it to access your NAS remotely.
Repeat the process on the remote client device (such as your laptop or phone). With Meshnet enabled, both devices are now part of a private, secure network. You can ping the Meshnet IP of your NAS server from the remote device to ensure connectivity.
Accessing OpenMediaVault Remotely
With Meshnet in place, accessing OpenMediaVault remotely becomes straightforward. Open your file explorer or NAS management software on the remote device and enter the NAS server’s Meshnet IP. For SMB/CIFS shares, you can use paths like:
\\Meshnet_IP\Shared_Folder
Replace “Meshnet_IP” with the actual Meshnet IP address assigned to your NAS. If you have configured FTP or NFS services in OpenMediaVault, you can access these protocols using their respective clients.
The Meshnet connection ensures all data transmitted between your devices remains encrypted and secure. Unlike traditional port-forwarding methods, Meshnet eliminates the need to expose your NAS server to the public internet, reducing security risks.
Optimizing and Maintaining Your NAS
After successfully accessing your NAS remotely, it’s important to optimize and maintain it for smooth performance. OpenMediaVault provides regular updates, so ensure your system is up-to-date to benefit from security patches and new features.
Additionally, consider implementing RAID configurations for data redundancy, setting up automated backups, and monitoring your NAS usage through the OMV dashboard. Meshnet, being lightweight and efficient, will continue to ensure secure access without affecting performance.
Combining OpenMediaVault and Meshnet allows you to set up a secure and efficient remote NAS system with minimal complexity. OpenMediaVault provides a robust, user-friendly NAS solution, while Meshnet ensures private and seamless connectivity without exposing your server to external threats. Whether for personal or professional use, this setup delivers centralized, accessible storage that you can rely on from anywhere in the world.
