TrueNAS on Raspberry Pi 5: An Affordable NAS for Emergency Backups

Transforming a Raspberry Pi 5 into a NAS (Network-Attached Storage) server is a project that can give new life to an otherwise underutilized device. Although traditional NAS solutions prefer x86 hardware to handle multiple storage disks, a community project has made it possible to install TrueNAS on ARM systems like the Raspberry Pi, offering an affordable solution for emergency backups or home labs.

The Technical Challenges of Installation

The main obstacle in installing TrueNAS on a Raspberry Pi 5 is the lack of UEFI support, an essential component for booting the operating system. Without UEFI, the Raspberry Pi cannot run standard Linux or Windows distributions unless a custom UEFI package is configured. In this case, the rpi5-uefi project by worproject has provided a solution, albeit with some limitations.

To install TrueNAS, you need to format a microSD card in FAT32 and copy the extracted files of the UEFI package onto it. However, the microSD card acts as the UEFI partition, so the TrueNAS installation must be done on an external drive, such as a USB flash drive or an SSD. In this configuration, the UEFI package disables some hardware components of the Raspberry Pi, including the EEPROM module, GPIO pins, PWM controls, and the integrated Ethernet port.

Working Around the Limitations

Disabling the integrated Ethernet port is a significant issue for a NAS server, as the "N" in NAS stands for "Network." However, this problem can be solved by using a USB-to-Ethernet adapter, which allows restoring network functionality. With this solution, the Raspberry Pi 5 can handle two hard drives, although the device's limited power makes it unsuitable for powering multiple units, especially HDDs, without additional accessories.

System Performance and Functionality

Despite hardware and software incompatibilities, TrueNAS works surprisingly well on the Raspberry Pi 5 for basic NAS operations. Although the TrueNAS dashboard may have difficulty correctly identifying the processor, it is still possible to create ZFS pools and configure network shares. To test the system's capabilities, a 2.5G Ethernet adapter and an SSD connected to the Raspberry Pi were used.

Creating a new storage pool and configuring network shares and user profiles proved to be simple and intuitive. In just a few minutes, it was possible to access the SMB share from a PC and transfer files at a constant speed of 210MB/s, an impressive result considering the Raspberry Pi's hardware limitations. However, TrueNAS app models are not compatible with the Raspberry Pi, but it is still possible to implement custom LXC containers.

Rsync and scrub operations proved to be effective, offering all the essential functionalities of a barebones NAS. Although it is not possible to use app models, it is still possible to implement custom LXC containers to extend the system's functionalities.

Utility of the Raspberry Pi NAS

The Raspberry Pi 5 is not suitable as a dedicated NAS, especially considering the network and UEFI limitations. An x86 system is always preferable for a storage, backup, and primary archive server, especially considering the high price of the Raspberry Pi. However, if you have an unused Raspberry Pi and do not have the budget for a dedicated NAS system, this configuration can work as an offsite backup server or for cold storage.

To improve the system's functionality, you can pair the Raspberry Pi NAS with an OPNsense router equipped with Tailscale or a subnet router on another PC. This setup can be useful for performing rsync operations from a local node. Additionally, the Raspberry Pi NAS can be used as a redundant backup machine, although it is advisable to avoid using SSDs for long-term storage, as they may lose data if left disconnected for a few months.

Raspberry Pi 5 Specifications

  • CPU: Arm Cortex-A76 (quad-core, 2.4GHz)
  • Memory: Up to 8GB LPDDR4X SDRAM
  • Operating System: Raspberry Pi OS (official)
  • Ports: 2× USB 3.0, 2× USB 2.0, Ethernet, 2x micro HDMI, 2× 4-lane MIPI transceivers, PCIe Gen 2.0 interface, USB-C, 40-pin GPIO header
  • GPU: VideoCore VII
  • Starting Price: $60

The Raspberry Pi 5 as a NAS: An Interesting Option for Data Storage Experimentation

The Raspberry Pi 5 can be a useful solution for those in need of a basic NAS or a secondary backup solution. However, its hardware limitations make it unsuitable as a primary storage server. For more ambitious projects, it is advisable to consider more robust x86 solutions.

The Raspberry Pi 5 as a NAS is an interesting option for those who want to experiment with data storage, but it is important to be aware of its limitations and the available alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can the Raspberry Pi 5 be used as a primary NAS?

No, the Raspberry Pi 5 is not suitable as a primary NAS due to its hardware limitations. It is better to use it as a secondary backup solution or for home lab projects.

2. What are the alternatives to the Raspberry Pi 5 for a NAS?

Alternatives include x86 mini-PCs, commercial NAS solutions, and more powerful Raspberry Pi-based systems, such as the Raspberry Pi 4 with more RAM.

3. Is it possible to extend the functionalities of the Raspberry Pi NAS?

Yes, although TrueNAS app models are not compatible with the Raspberry Pi, it is possible to implement custom LXC containers to extend the system's functionalities.

4. What are the risks of using SSDs for long-term storage?

SSDs can lose data if left disconnected for long periods. It is advisable to use traditional hard drives for long-term storage.

5. How can I improve the security of my Raspberry Pi NAS?

Configuring strong passwords, using secure networks, and ensuring regular software updates can help improve system security.

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