Moving From Synology Apps to Docker Containers
Moving from Built-In Synology Apps to Services in Containers
Many companies start using built-in Synology packages to set up services because they are easy and quick to set up. But over time, these packages become too small for businesses. They need version control, the ability to work with other software, and updates that happen on time.
Docker containers are a more stable and scalable way to run apps on a NAS. Administrators can set up standardized environments that work the same way on all systems instead of using vendor-maintained packages. Switching to containers doesn’t mean giving up Synology; it means using the NAS as a full infrastructure platform instead of just a device.
Why companies switch to containers
Synology packages are useful, but they don’t have a lot of features. They are meant to be set up quickly, not to manage infrastructure over the long term. Updates depend on the people who maintain the packages, and there aren’t many configuration options.
Containers get around these problems by keeping applications separate from the operating system. No matter what hardware changes or system upgrades you make, the same application will work the same way. This makes it easier to keep things up to date and less likely to have problems with compatibility.
When companies need regular updates, better integration with other tools, or the same deployment across many locations, they usually migrate.
Setting up the Migration
Before moving, administrators should find out what data the application keeps and where the configuration files are. Some Synology apps save data in system folders, while others use mounted volumes to store data.
The goal is to keep the data and the application logic separate. Data should stay the same, but the application environment should be able to be changed. Planning ahead keeps data safe and saves time by not having to set up user settings again.
Before replacing production services, it is best to test them in a temporary environment.
Setting up the NAS Environment
Container deployments need a well-organized way to store things. Administrators should make separate folders for configuration, databases, and shared files instead of letting applications make random directories.
Instead of giving permissions to each user, they should be given to service accounts. This makes sure that applications keep working even if the accounts of administrators change.
The container platform can mount storage paths as persistent volumes once they are set up.
Putting the Container in Place
The container manager can install the application after it has been set up. The mapped data folders keep all the content, but the container image replaces the package.
During deployment, administrators set up network ports, environment variables, and how the system should restart. Automatic restart makes sure that services come back after a reboot without any help from a person.
Once the container is running, it doesn’t depend on DSM package updates.
Moving Data
You need to copy the data from the existing application into the container storage location. This could mean moving files from system directories or exporting databases.
Administrators should start the container and check access with test accounts after the migration is complete. The original package can be turned off once it has been confirmed.
Until functionality is confirmed, the migration should always be able to be undone.
Benefits After Moving
Containers make things more reliable over time because they make the application environment portable. Instead of changing system parts, upgrades mean replacing the container.
Administrators can control when updates happen, which makes maintenance more predictable. Because application data is stored in separate folders instead of system paths, backup procedures also get better.
This method makes storage systems work better with the way businesses set up their infrastructure.
A Look at the Synology Platform
Synology NAS devices can handle containerized workloads while still providing backup, storage, and snapshot protection. The NAS serves as both a host for applications and a platform for recovery. Snapshots let you quickly go back to a previous version if an update fails without having to rebuild services.
This combination lets businesses modernize how they deploy applications without having to add new servers.
About the Epis Technology
Epis Technology helps companies move from traditional NAS apps to infrastructure that is based on containers. The company makes backup solutions for Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, as well as storage architecture, backup protection, and disaster recovery plans. Epis Technology makes sure that applications stay stable, recoverable, and scalable in all business environments by using standardized deployments and recovery planning.