Namecheap DDNS with Synology NAS: Configuration Guide

Complete Guide to Configuring Namecheap DDNS with Synology NAS

Dynamic DNS (DDNS) allows you to access your network remotely, even when you don’t have a static IP address. For those using Synology NAS systems, configuring DDNS is essential for remote access to files, media, and applications without worrying about changing IP addresses.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of configuring Namecheap DDNS with your Synology NAS. We’ll also provide troubleshooting tips and best practices to ensure you have a smooth experience setting up remote access.

Why Use DDNS with Your Synology NAS?

By default, most home networks use dynamic IP addresses, which can change periodically. This can make accessing your Synology NAS remotely via a fixed IP address impossible. DDNS resolves this issue by linking a domain name (e.g., yournas.dynu.com) to your dynamic IP, updating it whenever the IP address changes. This ensures that you can always access your NAS remotely via the same domain name.

How to Set Up Namecheap DDNS with Synology NAS

Step 1: Sign Up for Namecheap DDNS Service

First, you need to have a Namecheap account and set up a domain. If you don’t already have one, follow these steps:

Visit Namecheap.com and sign up for an account.
Purchase a domain or use an existing one that you own.
Once your domain is active, go to your Namecheap dashboard and navigate to the “Advanced DNS” tab.

Now you’ll be able to configure the DNS settings for your domain.

Step 2: Configure DDNS in Namecheap

To enable DDNS, you need to configure your domain to update its IP address automatically.

In the Advanced DNS tab, locate the Dynamic DNS section.
Enable DDNS by ticking the “Use Namecheap’s DNS” option.
Create a new A record (or update an existing one) with the following details:
- Host: The subdomain of your choice (e.g., nas.yourdomain.com).
- Value: Leave this blank for now; the system will fill this in later.
Save the changes. Namecheap will generate a DDNS password you will need for the Synology configuration.

Step 3: Set Up DDNS on Synology NAS

Now that you have your DDNS service set up on Namecheap, it’s time to configure your Synology NAS.

Log in to your Synology NAS DSM (DiskStation Manager).
Go to Control Panel > External Access > DDNS tab.
Click Add to create a new DDNS profile.
Select Namecheap from the service provider list (if it’s not listed, choose “Custom”).
Enter the following details:
- Host name: The subdomain you set up on Namecheap (e.g., nas.yourdomain.com).
- Username: Your Namecheap account username.
- Password: The DDNS password provided by Namecheap.
- Server: Use the default server provided by Namecheap or set it to dynamicdns.park-your-domain.com.
Click Test Connection to make sure everything is set up correctly.
Click Apply to save the settings.

Step 4: Verify Your DDNS Setup

Once you’ve configured DDNS on both Namecheap and Synology NAS, you should test your setup.

Open a browser and type in your DDNS domain name (e.g., nas.yourdomain.com).
You should be directed to your Synology NAS login page, confirming that remote access is active.

Troubleshooting Tips

Issue 1: DDNS Not Updating IP Address

Check your internet connection to make sure your NAS is connected properly.
Ensure that DDNS updates are enabled on both your Synology NAS and Namecheap settings.
If the IP address does not update, you may need to manually force an update in the Synology DSM settings.

Issue 2: Unable to Access NAS Remotely

Ensure that the router firewall is configured to allow access to the appropriate ports (e.g., HTTP/HTTPS ports, default Synology ports).
Verify that the DDNS configuration on Namecheap and DSM is correct.
Double-check your ISP’s restrictions on port forwarding or DDNS usage.

Synology-Focused Solution Overview

Synology offers seamless integration with DDNS providers like Namecheap, which helps ensure remote access even when IP addresses change. Synology’s DSM operating system simplifies the setup process, with a user-friendly interface for DDNS configuration. With Synology’s advanced firewall and encryption features, users can confidently manage remote access to their data while maintaining a secure environment.

Synology’s built-in backup services also complement DDNS usage by enabling remote backups and data access anywhere. Whether you’re backing up files remotely or accessing media libraries, Synology ensures everything works together securely.

How Epis Technology Supports Your DDNS and NAS Configuration

While setting up DDNS and Synology NAS may seem straightforward, businesses and individuals often benefit from expert support during configuration. Epis Technology assists with NAS deployments, helping clients choose the right settings for remote access, security, and backup solutions. The team also provides custom configurations, ensuring Synology NAS works seamlessly with other network infrastructure and external services.

For users needing reliable, ongoing support or optimization, Epis Technology offers long-term maintenance and monitoring, ensuring that everything from remote access to backup systems is secure and running smoothly.

Setting up Namecheap DDNS with your Synology NAS enables you to securely access your data from anywhere in the world, even when your IP address changes. With these simple steps, you can configure and troubleshoot DDNS on your NAS, ensuring a seamless experience.

If you’re unsure about any part of the setup or want to optimize your configuration, Epis Technology offers expert guidance and deployment services to help you make the most of your Synology NAS system.

About Epis Technology

Epis Technology provides enterprise IT infrastructure, data protection, and Synology consulting services. The company specializes in scalable NAS deployments, hybrid cloud integration, Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace backups, fully managed PC backups, and business continuity planning. Epis Technology helps organizations secure, manage, and optimize their data environments, ensuring reliable remote access and seamless network functionality.