Best UPS for protecting Synology NAS power
The Best UPS Options for Synology NAS
Power outages can happen at any time. When the power goes out suddenly, it can corrupt volumes, cause backups to fail, and even damage drives on network-attached storage systems like a Synology NAS. One of the best ways to keep your NAS safe, keep your data safe, and make sure safe shutdowns during power outages is to choose the right Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).
Why Your NAS Needs a UPS
A UPS gives your NAS enough time to do the following when the power goes out or dims:
- Finish writing operations
- Flush caches in a safe way
- Close down nicely
- Keep dependent devices connected
Without a UPS, sudden power outages can stop DSM tasks like creating snapshots, rebuilding RAID, or running scheduled backups. Repeated outages also put stress on hardware over time, which makes it more likely that a part will fail.
Things to Think About When Choosing a UPS
When picking a UPS for a Synology NAS, keep these important things in mind:
- Battery Size (VA/Watt)
More capacity means longer runtime. Instead of extended operation, aim for enough runtime to finish a controlled shutdown. - Output of a Sine Wave
True sine wave UPS units give you cleaner power, which makes them work better with sensitive equipment. - Ports for Communication
With USB or network UPS support, DSM can find the UPS, check the battery level, and start automatic shutdowns. - Shape
For desktops and small setups, choose tower models. For server closets or data racks, choose rackmount UPS units. - Ability to grow and expand
Some UPS units let you add external battery modules to make them last longer.
APC Back-UPS Pro Series
APC Back-UPS Pro units protect NAS systems of all sizes in a reliable way. They have automatic voltage regulation (AVR), pure sine wave output on some models, and built-in USB communication. APC is well supported with DSM detection and support for graceful shutdown.
The CyberPower CP Series
The CP series from CyberPower strikes a good balance between price and performance. A lot of models have sine wave output, LCD status screens, and more than one outlet. CyberPower units can connect to USB ports for DSM integration, which lets you monitor and shut down your computer automatically.
These are great options for medium NAS setups or mini server closets.
5P or 9PX Series from Eaton
People know that Eaton UPS units are well-made and have longer battery lives. The 5P and 9PX series have pure sine wave output, advanced power management, and optional external battery packs. Eaton’s compatibility with DSM makes sure that NAS power protection works in both desktop and rack settings.
These choices work well for bigger NAS setups that have to handle more data.
Tripp Lite’s SMART UPS
The SMART UPS line from Tripp Lite has professional-grade units that come with network management card options. They have a long battery life, can be replaced, and are very reliable. DSM can easily coordinate shutdowns over USB or a network.
These are great for server rooms in small businesses or advanced home labs.
Matching the size of the UPS to the load on the NAS
To pick the right size for your UPS:
- Add up the power that the NAS uses.
- Add peripherals that are connected, like a switch or router.
- Add a margin for a safe runtime.
A UPS with a rating between 800 VA and 1500 VA gives most home NAS systems enough time to safely shut down. Some NAS systems or extra equipment may need 1500 VA or more.
How to Connect a UPS to Synology DSM
You can connect a UPS to a Synology NAS device through USB or network UPS servers. Once you connect:
- In the Control Panel, go to Hardware & Power and then UPS to turn on UPS support.
- Choose the UPS that is connected and set the shutdown limits.
- You can make the NAS a UPS server for other devices if you want.
With proper integration, the NAS will respond to power events on its own, without any help from you.
Testing and Upkeep
A UPS is only useful if it works when you need it. To keep things reliable:
- Check the battery’s runtime every now and then.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for changing batteries.
- Check DSM for UPS logs.
- Update the management software or firmware regularly.
You can trust your UPS during real outages if you test it regularly.
UPS and a bigger backup plan
A UPS keeps your power on, but it doesn’t replace backups. Ransomware attacks or hardware failures can happen at the same time as sudden outages. A strong backup plan uses:
- Local snapshots of NAS
- Replication off-site
- Backups in the cloud
- Backups for endpoints
About the Epis Technology
Epis Technology helps businesses build storage environments that can withstand damage by providing enterprise IT infrastructure, data protection, and Synology consulting services. The business focuses on setting up Synology, integrating UPS, building backup systems, and improving performance. Epis Technology makes sure that Synology systems stay safe, secure, and available even when the power goes out by making sure that UPS solutions work with NAS configuration and continuity planning.