how to configure synology nas

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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17-01-2025

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Setting up your Synology NAS for the first time can seem daunting, but with this step-by-step guide, you'll be storing and sharing your files in no time. We'll cover everything from initial setup to advanced configurations, ensuring your Synology NAS is optimized for your needs.

Getting Started: Initial Setup

1. Physical Connection:

• Connect the Power: Plug your Synology NAS into a power outlet.
• Network Connection: Connect your NAS to your router using an Ethernet cable (for optimal speed). A Wi-Fi connection is possible but less reliable for data transfers.
• Connect Hard Drives: Install your hard drives into the designated bays. Refer to your Synology NAS model's manual for specific instructions.

2. Initial System Setup:

• Locate the IP Address: Once powered on, find your Synology NAS's IP address. This is usually printed on the device itself or found in your router's device list.
• Access the DSM Interface: Open a web browser and type your NAS's IP address into the address bar. This will take you to the Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) interface.
• Create an Account: Follow the on-screen instructions to create an administrator account. Choose a strong password!
• QuickConnect ID (Optional): Synology's QuickConnect feature allows remote access to your NAS without needing to configure port forwarding. Set this up now if you want easy remote access.

Setting Up Storage and Volumes

1. Storage Manager:

Navigate to "Storage Manager" in the DSM interface. This is where you'll configure your hard drives and storage pools.

2. Creating a Storage Pool:

• Select Your Drives: Choose the hard drives you want to use for storage. Synology supports various RAID configurations (RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, etc.). Choose the RAID type that best suits your needs and data redundancy requirements. RAID 1 is a good starting point for beginners, offering data redundancy.
• Format the Drives: The system will format your drives and create a storage pool. This process will erase all existing data on the drives.

3. Creating a Shared Folder:

Once your storage pool is created, you can create shared folders to organize your data. This is where you will store your files.

• Name the Shared Folder: Give it a descriptive name.
• Set Permissions: Carefully manage permissions to control who can access this folder and what they can do.

Essential Synology NAS Configurations

1. User Accounts:

• Create User Accounts: Create individual accounts for each user who will access your NAS. Assign appropriate permissions for each user.
• Password Protection: Enforce strong passwords and enable 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) for enhanced security.

2. Network Configuration:

• Check Network Settings: Ensure your NAS is correctly connected to your network and has a static or reserved IP address.
• Port Forwarding (if not using QuickConnect): Configure port forwarding on your router to access your NAS from outside your local network.

3. Data Backup and Replication:

• Set Up a Backup Plan: Regularly back up your important data to an external hard drive or cloud service. Synology's built-in backup utilities make this easy.
• Consider Replication: Protect against data loss by replicating your data to another Synology NAS or a cloud service.

4. Security:

• Regular DSM Updates: Keep your DSM software updated to benefit from security patches and new features.
• Firewall: Enable and configure your NAS's firewall to protect against unauthorized access.
• HTTPS: Use HTTPS for encrypted communication with your NAS.

5. File Sharing:

• File Sharing Protocols: Synology NAS supports various file-sharing protocols (SMB/CIFS, AFP, NFS). Configure the protocols your devices need.
• Cloud Sync: Integrate cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive for seamless cloud synchronization.

6. Apps and Packages:

Synology offers a vast library of apps and packages you can install to extend your NAS's functionality. Explore options like surveillance, media server, and VPN server.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Unable to Connect: Check your network connection, IP address, and firewall settings.
• Slow Transfer Speeds: Ensure you're using an Ethernet connection and have sufficient network bandwidth.
• Storage Issues: Verify your RAID configuration and check the hard drive health status.

This comprehensive guide should get you started with your Synology NAS. Remember to always refer to Synology's official documentation for specific instructions related to your NAS model. Happy configuring!