When comparing NAS and SAN for large storage deployments, which statement best reflects the cost aspect?

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Cost is the factor being tested: for large storage deployments, NAS typically offers a lower total cost of ownership than SAN. NAS uses standard Ethernet networks and commodity hardware, which keeps both upfront capital costs and ongoing operational expenses down. It scales by adding more NAS nodes or expanding shelves, often leveraging the existing IP network, reducing the need for expensive fabric switches, specialized adapters, and high-license costs that SAN environments usually require. SAN relies on fast block storage fabrics like Fibre Channel or tuned iSCSI setups, plus controllers, switches, and licenses that add to both initial investment and ongoing maintenance. So, for large, primarily file-based storage, NAS tends to be more cost-effective, while SAN may be justified only if workloads demand the specific performance characteristics of block-level access.