1. Unraid OS is a proprietary Linux-based system designed for home servers, supporting NAS, media, app, and virtualization functions, with customization via plugins and Docker.
2. The latest version, 7.3.0, introduces support for booting from external drive types like NVMe, SSD, eMMC, or existing storage, and offers encrypted/ mirrored boot options.
3. Licensing options include a $49 starter license for up to 6 drives, a $109 Unleashed version for unlimited drives, and a lifetime license for one payment of $249.
4. Prebuilt servers such as the LincStation S1 are available with Unraid included, starting at $499.
Overview of Unraid’s Unique Positioning
Right now, even though Unraid technically runs on a Linux core, it’s classed as a proprietary operating system really tailored for home servers that perform various functions like NAS, media streaming, or hosting apps and virtual machines. The system offers a lot of potential to be customized with plugins or Docker applications, extending its functionalities. It’s been around for quite some time, originating from Slackware, over 20 years ago, with the most recent update named 7.3.0 just rolled out yesterday.
Latest Update and Installation Flexibility
New Licensing Options and Boot Methods
Unraid OS 7.3.0 has introduced some significant improvements, especially in licensing and boot options. In the past, users had to rely on booting from a flash drive and validating licenses via this method. But now, the OS can be installed directly onto external drives like NVMe, SSDs, or eMMCs, or even onto existing storage devices, providing much more flexibility. Moreover, for internal booting, there’s support for a mirrored boot pool through ZFS, offering better data resilience. Users can choose between flash licensing or TPM-based licensing when switching to internal boot methods.
Price Plans and Cost Options
- The starter license costing $49 supports up to 6 storage devices and includes a year’s worth of updates. This makes it a more budget-friendly option for small-scale users.
- The Unleashed version, priced at $109, allows for unlimited devices while still offering a year of updates, perfect for heavier users or expanding systems.
- For those wanting forever upgrades, the lifetime license costs $249, granting unlimited devices and updates with a single payment.
Prebuilt Hardware and Availability
If buying prebuilt servers is your preferred way to go, there are options, though generally they’re quite pricey. Currently, Amazon is selling the LincStation S1 that comes with Unraid OS included, available for just $499. That might be an attractive starting point for users who want a ready-made solution without fussing over assembly and software setup.