this post was submitted on 08 Feb 2026
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A NAS is just a computer and TrueNAS is just Linux (ok, TrueNAS CORE is Bsd).
You can run zfs on any machine: they recommend loads of RAM for optimal performance, which you don't need at home (or at work, unless your job is running a data center).
You can choose from a number of FOSS NAS-specific operating systems, plus all linux distros (since you post here, I'd assume you either can or aim to administer a home sever?)... why would you go with a proprietary OS?
There are several FOSS operating systems for network equipment too (keyword "NOS"), but as far as I'm aware none that work on small soho/edge switches. OpenWrt runs both my router (mikrotik) and WAPs (tplink), but the two 8-port switches I have at home (also tplink) run their proprietary firmware.
You can run OpenWRT on switches without issue. Linux and thus openwrt support hardware switches so Openwrt really just manages the config.
Also I personally really like Truenas as it simplifies management.
I'm happy with my Unifi network and security setup, especially the single pain of glass. I had assumed the NAS would integrate with that system, but it doesn't seem to.