Does a QNAP NAS really need a UPS?
Often yes, because the goal is not just runtime. A UPS helps protect against abrupt shutdowns, brownouts, and enough instability to let the NAS stop services and shut down cleanly.
Should I back up only the NAS?
Usually no. The switch and router path often matter too, especially if you want management, alerts, remote access, or network-based shutdown logic to work during the outage.
How much runtime do I really need?
For many NAS environments, a clean shutdown window is the priority. Some users want longer runtime for short outages, but the right answer depends on the full stack and the continuity goal.
Is bigger always better?
No. The best unit is the one that matches the real QNAP stack, leaves sensible headroom, and supports the shutdown path you actually plan to use.