Basic troubleshooting for when a NAS isn't properly available on the local network.
First confirm that the NAS is working correctly by directly connecting it to a PC or otherwise. If it available using this method, then any connectivity problems might be related to the Local Area Network (LAN). If possible, temporarily installing the NAS on another network altogether can be a handy troubleshooting step to verify the NAS device's functionality.
Most home Networks are managed by a router or cable modem/router combination. These devices include firewalls and other functions that can inhibit or disable network access for some devices in your home. If you're familiar with how to manage the router's settings, consider the list below. If you're not familiar with how to do this, please contact your ISP before proceeding.
- Verify that the NAS is powered on and connected to your router with a working Ethernet cable. Try other cables if available.
- Firewall and/or Port Forwarding - While these are different functions, they both can prevent a particular device from gaining access to the network. Ensure that any exceptions are made that are necessary to control the device. Port forwarding is unnecessary unless you are attempting to access it via the internet from a remote location.
- IP Pool - Occasionally routers are configured with a limited number of IP addresses which are assigned to devices connected to it. Most home routers default to 50 IP addresses, however that may differ. Confirm that enough IP addresses are allowed on the network.
- NAT configuration - If this function is disabled or restrictions are configured by default, it may be preventing access to one or more devices on the network. Be sure that no restrictions are set and that the NAT is active.
- MAC address filtering - If this is set, the NAS device may not be allowed access. Ensure that the NAS device's MAC address is added to the approved list or that the feature is disabled. (The MAC address can be found on a sticker on the NAS device)
- UPnP - Some routers by default have this feature set to OFF or do not include it at all (like Apple Airport routers). This feature is required to use the LaCie Network Assistant. If the NAS is receiving an IP address from the router, try typing this IP address in the address bar of a browser and pressing Enter to see if the Dashboard will load.
Please contact LaCie technical support if you need further assistance.
