United States
Q
What is Synology Storage and how does it work?
A
Synology Storage is a network-attached storage (NAS) solution that centralizes data on your local network. It runs on DiskStation Manager (DSM) and provides file sharing, backup, and multimedia services via Ethernet.
Q
How do I set up my Synology NAS for the first time?
A
Connect your drives, power on the NAS, and open DSM Assistant in a web browser to follow the guided installation. The wizard formats volumes, installs DSM, and configures your administrator account.
Q
What are the minimum system requirements for Synology Storage?
A
Synology NAS requires a compatible CPU, at least 1 GB RAM, and network connectivity via Ethernet. Specific models may demand higher specs, so consult the Synology compatibility list for details.
Q
How can I configure RAID on Synology NAS?
A
Open Storage Manager in DSM, select Storage Pool > Create, and choose your RAID type (e.g., SHR, RAID 1, RAID 5). The system will optimize disk redundancy and performance automatically.
Q
What backup options are available on Synology Storage?
A
Synology offers Hyper Backup for multi-version backups, Snapshot Replication for near-instant recovery, and Cloud Sync to mirror data to public cloud services. All tools support schedules and end-to-end encryption.
Q
How do I access my Synology NAS remotely?
A
Enable QuickConnect or configure DDNS and port forwarding in DSM Control Panel > Connectivity. You can then access files via Synology Drive, File Station, or mobile apps from any internet-enabled device.
Q
Can I expand storage capacity on my Synology NAS?
A
Yes. Install additional drive trays or connect a Synology Expansion Unit (DX series) to your NAS. Then use Storage Manager to add new drives to existing volumes or create new storage pools.
Q
How secure is data on Synology Storage?
A
Synology implements AES-256 volume encryption, 2FA, SSL/TLS, and auto-block for failed logins. Regular DSM updates and AppArmor profile enforcement further protect your data.
Q
What file protocols does Synology NAS support?
A
Synology NAS supports SMB, AFP, NFS, FTP, WebDAV, iSCSI, and SFTP. This ensures seamless file sharing across Windows, macOS, Linux, and virtualization environments.
Q
How do I optimize performance on Synology Storage?
A
Enable SSD cache, configure link aggregation, and use Synology High Availability (SHA) for clustered nodes. Regularly monitor Resource Monitor and adjust I/O priorities in Storage Manager.
Q
What features does DiskStation Manager (DSM) offer?
A
DSM provides a web-based interface with package center apps for backup, multimedia, virtualization, surveillance, and collaboration. It delivers granular permission controls, resource monitoring, and automated updates.
Q
How does Synology Surveillance Station work?
A
Install Surveillance Station from Package Center, add IP cameras, and configure recording rules and alerts. The system supports event-based recording, live view, and remote monitoring on desktop or mobile.
Q
Are Synology mobile apps free to use?
A
Yes. Synology provides free mobile apps—DS file, DS cloud, DS audio, DS video, and DS cam—for iOS and Android. These apps enable secure file access, streaming, and camera monitoring on the go.
Q
How do I integrate Synology NAS with public cloud services?
A
Use Cloud Sync in DSM to connect with AWS, Azure, Google Drive, Dropbox, and more. You can schedule sync tasks, set bandwidth limits, and enable data encryption for cloud transfers.
Q
What warranty and support options are available for Synology products?
A
Synology offers a standard 2- to 5-year limited warranty depending on the model, with options to purchase extended warranties. Technical support includes online knowledge base, community forums, and direct ticketing.
Q
How do I migrate data from an old NAS to Synology Storage?
A
Use the Synology Migration Assistant or Synology Hybrid Share to transfer volumes, settings, and applications. Alternatively, perform rsync, SMB, or FTP file transfers between devices with minimal downtime.
