NAS devices are network-attached storage servers that work with local and cloud-based applications to provide data storage, backup, and remote access for multiple users. They are available in a variety of form factors and capacities, and come with various software that provides useful features such as multimedia streaming, file synchronization, virtualization, and surveillance. The latest NAS models have a wide range of performance options that make them ideal for business environments. Synology is a leader in the NAS industry, with its DiskStation Manager operating system (DSM) providing a rich web-based user interface that makes it easy to use even for beginners.
Most NAS devices have a built-in Gigabit LAN port, and some offer an add-on slot for a 10GbE card to increase the server’s bandwidth. They can also work with most 3.5-inch desktop drives and 2.5-inch laptop drives. A standard screwdriver is all that’s needed to open the case and replace or remove a drive, and newer cases are tool-free, meaning there’s no need for special adapters.
All synology nas servers are powered by DSM, which is a Linux-based operating system designed specifically for the server platform. DSM has a fluid interface that looks and behaves like a native OS, with a start button and desktop, taskbar, and control panel. DSM also includes a suite of apps, some proprietary and others from third-party developers. You can find them in a separate app center that works much like a mobile app store.
Each NAS model from the company comes with different hardware, depending on its capacity, release date, and other specs. The DS series of servers offers high-performance hardware, while the SE and J series offer more budget-friendly choices with lower speeds and hardware. Depending on the hardware, some NAS models support up to four drives, while others have room for expansion units that allow you to add more capacity.
Among the best features offered by Synology is Hyper Backup, which automatically synchronizes data across multiple devices and locations, such as public clouds, other Synology NAS systems, or computers. This keeps your files safe in the event of accidental or malicious data changes, and allows you to restore the original version with a single click. Another great feature is Cloud Station Suite, which creates a private cloud for accessing files and sharing them with others.
The company’s newest offering is the DS923+, which offers improved read and write performance over its predecessor. It also supports NVMe drives, allowing you to maximize the NAS’s potential for speedy data transfers. The DS923+ is an excellent option for home and small businesses alike, and it can handle demanding tasks such as transcoding 4K videos on the fly. It also has an unused PCIe slot for adding a 10GbE network card, which will further improve performance and cost. It is a welcome addition to the company’s flagship lineup.