Introduction
The Asustor Lockerstor 4 AS6604T is a four-bay network attached storage system designed for users who need centralized storage, fast network access, and flexible expansion without stepping into a large rack-mounted NAS. With a quad-core 2.0GHz processor, 4GB of DDR4 memory, dual 2.5GbE networking, and two M.2 SSD slots, it brings several features normally associated with more advanced NAS platforms into a relatively compact desktop enclosure.
For a household with multiple users, a small office, a creative team, or an enterprise network storage Multi Room environment, the AS6604T offers an interesting balance between capacity and connectivity. Its four drive bays can accommodate traditional hard drives for larger storage pools, while the M.2 slots provide options for SSD-based caching or other supported storage configurations. Because this is a diskless NAS, you can select the drives that best match your capacity, redundancy, performance, and budget requirements.
The dual 2.5GbE ports are particularly important because network performance can become a bottleneck when several computers access shared files simultaneously. Combined with suitable networking hardware, the AS6604T can provide a much faster experience than conventional gigabit NAS systems. It can also serve as a central location for backups, media, documents, projects, and other files that need to be accessible from multiple rooms or devices.
Features
Four-Bay Storage Architecture
The four drive bays give the Lockerstor 4 a useful capacity advantage over smaller two-bay NAS systems. You can populate the enclosure according to your needs instead of paying for storage you may not immediately require. Four bays also create more flexibility when selecting a RAID configuration, although the appropriate configuration depends on your desired balance between capacity, redundancy, and performance.
For an enterprise network storage Multi Room setup, four bays can be especially practical. A centralized NAS can hold shared work files, backups, media libraries, project folders, and other frequently accessed data while allowing multiple computers to connect through the network.
Quad-Core 2.0GHz Processor
At the heart of the AS6604T is a quad-core 2.0GHz CPU. A multi-core processor gives a NAS more processing resources for handling simultaneous services and users than a basic single-purpose storage device. Everyday NAS workloads can include file sharing, backup jobs, indexing, applications, media management, and network services running at the same time.
Processor performance is only one part of overall NAS speed, but it matters when the system is expected to do more than simply store files. For users building a multi-room storage environment, the AS6604T’s quad-core architecture provides a foundation for handling varied workloads while keeping the system responsive.
4GB DDR4 Memory
The system includes 4GB of DDR4 RAM. Memory contributes to the NAS’s ability to manage applications, services, file operations, and multiple concurrent tasks. For a home or small-business storage server, 4GB provides a useful starting point for typical network storage workloads.
Actual memory requirements vary depending on the number of applications, simultaneous users, and services running on the NAS. Buyers planning unusually demanding workloads should evaluate the system’s supported memory configuration and software requirements before purchasing.
Dual 2.5GbE Network Ports
One of the most attractive specifications is the inclusion of two 2.5GbE ports. Compared with standard 1GbE networking, 2.5GbE provides substantially more theoretical network bandwidth for compatible infrastructure. This can make a noticeable difference when transferring large files, backing up computers, or accessing shared project folders.
The benefit becomes more apparent when the rest of the network supports multi-gigabit connectivity. A 2.5GbE NAS connected to a conventional gigabit switch will not magically provide a 2.5GbE connection to a client. For best results, compatible switches, cabling, and client network adapters should be considered as part of the complete system.
Two M.2 SSD Slots
The two M.2 SSD slots add another layer of flexibility. SSDs can be useful for workloads where faster access to frequently used data is important, depending on how the NAS software supports their use. This gives the AS6604T an advantage over basic four-bay systems that rely exclusively on mechanical hard drives.
SSD functionality should be planned carefully. Adding an SSD does not automatically make every NAS operation dramatically faster, because network speed, hard-drive performance, application behavior, and workload type all influence the final result. Nevertheless, having two M.2 slots provides additional configuration possibilities for users who want to optimize their storage environment.
Diskless Design
The AS6604T is sold without storage drives. That means the buyer has control over the drive selection rather than being locked into a predefined capacity. You can choose NAS-oriented hard drives based on the capacity and workload you expect, and you can plan the storage pool around your preferred redundancy strategy.
A diskless NAS also makes it easier to upgrade over time. You can begin with a practical configuration and expand as your storage requirements grow, subject to the supported expansion and RAID rules of the NAS operating system.
Designed for Centralized Access
The core purpose of the Lockerstor 4 is centralized data access. Instead of maintaining important files across several computers, users can place shared data on one network storage platform. This can simplify file organization and make backups easier to manage.
In a multi-room environment, this centralized approach can be particularly useful. A desktop computer in one room, a laptop elsewhere, and additional network-connected devices can potentially access the same storage infrastructure without requiring separate external drives for every system.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Four drive bays provide flexible storage capacity | Diskless configuration requires separate drive purchases |
| Dual 2.5GbE ports offer multi-gigabit networking potential | Full network performance requires compatible networking hardware |
| Two M.2 SSD slots add configuration flexibility | SSD benefits depend heavily on workload and configuration |
| Quad-core 2.0GHz CPU supports varied NAS workloads | More demanding applications may require careful resource planning |
| 4GB DDR4 RAM provides a useful starting configuration | Actual performance varies with drives, network, and software services |
| Suitable form factor for home and small-office deployments | Four bays may not satisfy users needing very large drive counts |
Performance
Performance is where the AS6604T becomes particularly interesting. A NAS is not simply a computer with hard drives; its real-world speed depends on the interaction between the processor, memory, storage drives, network infrastructure, file protocol, and client device. The dual 2.5GbE ports give this model an important advantage for environments that have moved beyond standard gigabit networking.
When large files are transferred across a properly configured 2.5GbE network, the additional bandwidth can reduce transfer times compared with a 1GbE connection. This is valuable for large photo libraries, video projects, backups, software archives, and business documents. Multiple clients can also benefit from additional network capacity when the NAS and network infrastructure are configured appropriately.
Drive selection remains critical. Four high-capacity NAS hard drives can provide substantial storage, but mechanical drives have different performance characteristics from SSDs. If your workload consists primarily of sequential file transfers, large hard drives can be very practical. If your workflow involves many small files or applications with frequent random access, SSD storage may offer a different experience.
The M.2 slots provide another tool for optimizing the system. Depending on the supported configuration and software, SSDs can be used to improve certain frequently accessed workloads. However, buyers should avoid assuming that simply installing an M.2 SSD will accelerate every task. The largest performance gains generally come when the storage and network architecture match the workload.
Performance for Backups
For backup duties, the AS6604T can function as a centralized destination for computers and other compatible devices. A multi-bay NAS can also provide redundancy when configured appropriately, although RAID should never be confused with a complete backup strategy. RAID can help maintain availability after certain drive failures, but separate backups are still important for protection against accidental deletion, corruption, theft, or other failures.
Performance for Media Libraries
A four-bay NAS can also work well as a centralized media repository. Photos, music, videos, and personal archives can be organized in one location and accessed by compatible network devices. The actual media experience will depend on the applications used, client devices, file formats, and whether transcoding is required.
Performance in a Multi-Room Network
The enterprise network storage Multi Room concept fits the AS6604T particularly well when several rooms or workstations need access to centralized files. Imagine a home office, editing workstation, family computer, and laptop all connecting to one storage server. Instead of copying the same files repeatedly between external drives, the NAS can become the central storage point.
For business users, the same concept can apply to shared documents, project folders, departmental backups, and collaborative workflows. The actual suitability for enterprise deployment depends on the organization’s security requirements, user count, applications, backup policies, and administrative needs.
Setup and Everyday Use
Setting up a diskless NAS requires several decisions before normal use begins. First, install compatible storage drives according to the manufacturer’s guidance. Next, connect the NAS to your network and complete the operating-system setup. After that, you can create storage pools, shared folders, user accounts, permissions, and other services appropriate for your environment.
Network planning is especially important with a dual-2.5GbE NAS. If your existing switch only supports 1GbE, you may want to consider whether upgrading the networking infrastructure makes sense. A suitable multi-gigabit switch and compatible client adapters can help you take greater advantage of the AS6604T’s networking capabilities.
For users who are new to network storage, it is also useful to establish a backup plan before filling the NAS with important data. Storage capacity and data protection are separate considerations. A reliable NAS setup should include appropriate redundancy and an independent backup strategy.
If you are comparing storage equipment with other home technology, you may also find this Related Guide useful as another example of evaluating feature sets before choosing a device.
Who Should Consider the AS6604T?
The Lockerstor 4 AS6604T is worth considering for users who want more than a basic two-bay storage device. Its four bays make it appropriate for people planning larger storage pools, while dual 2.5GbE ports make it attractive for networks that already use multi-gigabit connectivity or are preparing to upgrade.
It can also make sense for photographers, video creators, home-office users, small teams, and technology enthusiasts who want centralized storage with room for future expansion. The M.2 slots further increase its flexibility for users interested in SSD-based storage options.
Important Buying Considerations
Because the unit is diskless, remember to budget for the storage drives. The NAS itself is only one part of the complete storage system. You should also consider whether your preferred drives are suitable for continuous NAS operation, how much usable capacity you need after redundancy, and whether your network can take advantage of 2.5GbE connectivity.
Think about your workload before choosing a configuration. Someone storing family photos and documents may prioritize capacity and redundancy. A video editor may place greater importance on network throughput and storage performance. A small business may prioritize permissions, backup reliability, user management, and availability. The AS6604T’s hardware provides flexibility, but the final configuration should match the intended workload.
FAQ
Is the Asustor Lockerstor 4 AS6604T sold with hard drives?
No. The AS6604T listed here is a diskless four-bay NAS, so storage drives need to be purchased separately. This lets buyers choose their preferred capacity and compatible NAS-oriented drives.
How many drives can the AS6604T hold?
The system has four main drive bays. This allows users to build a multi-drive storage pool and select an appropriate supported RAID configuration based on their priorities for capacity and redundancy.
Does the AS6604T support 2.5GbE networking?
Yes. It features two 2.5GbE network ports. To benefit from multi-gigabit connectivity, the connected switch, client devices, and network infrastructure also need to support the appropriate speeds.
What are the two M.2 slots used for?
The two M.2 SSD slots provide additional storage configuration flexibility. Depending on the supported NAS software configuration, compatible SSDs can be used for supported SSD-related functions such as caching or other storage roles.
Is 4GB of RAM enough for a NAS?
For many standard file-storage and backup workloads, 4GB can provide a useful starting point. The amount of memory required depends on the applications, services, number of users, and workload complexity running on the NAS.
Is RAID a backup?
No. RAID can provide redundancy and help maintain access to data after certain drive failures, but it does not replace an independent backup. Important files should also be protected with a separate backup destination.
Can the AS6604T be used in a multi-room environment?
Yes. A NAS is designed to provide network-based access, making a four-bay system suitable for centralized file storage across multiple rooms and compatible devices. The quality of the experience depends on network infrastructure, client hardware, storage configuration, and the workload.
Is the ASUSTOR Lockerstor 4 suitable for a small business?
Its four bays, quad-core processor, DDR4 memory, dual 2.5GbE networking, and M.2 slots make it a potentially useful platform for small-business file storage and backup workloads. Businesses should evaluate security, backup, user-management, application, and availability requirements before deployment.
Final Thoughts
The Asustor Lockerstor 4 AS6604T combines four-bay storage, a quad-core 2.0GHz CPU, 4GB DDR4 memory, dual 2.5GbE connectivity, and two M.2 SSD slots in a desktop NAS platform. Its diskless design gives users freedom to select their own storage drives, while the multi-gigabit networking makes it more interesting for modern networks than conventional gigabit-only NAS hardware.
For an enterprise network storage Multi Room deployment, its strongest characteristics are the four drive bays, dual 2.5GbE ports, and additional M.2 flexibility. As with any NAS, the best results come from matching the drive configuration and network infrastructure to the intended workload. If your goal is centralized storage for multiple computers, backups, media, documents, or collaborative files, the AS6604T provides a flexible hardware foundation to build around.