Prerequisites for Installing Xpenology: Setting Up Synology DSM on Custom Hardware

Xpenology is an open-source bootloader project that allows users to run Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM) on custom-built hardware. It’s a great way to experience Synology’s powerful NAS operating system without needing to purchase Synology hardware.
However, before installing Xpenology, you must ensure that your system meets the necessary hardware, BIOS, and network prerequisites for a smooth and secure setup. Setting up Xpenology incorrectly can lead to instability or data loss, so preparation is key.

1. Understand What Xpenology Is

Xpenology uses a bootloader (such as TinyCore RedPill) that emulates Synology hardware, enabling DSM installation on standard PCs or servers. It’s ideal for enthusiasts who want:

• A cost-effective private NAS solution.

• DSM’s features like file sharing, RAID, and cloud sync.

• Compatibility with Synology applications and services.

Note: Xpenology is not officially supported by Synology. It’s best used for personal or testing environments, not enterprise production systems.

2. Hardware Requirements

Before installing, confirm your system meets DSM’s basic requirements.

Recommended Hardware Configuration

• Processor: Intel or AMD 64-bit CPU (dual-core or better).

• RAM: Minimum 2 GB (4 GB or more recommended for performance).

• Storage: At least one SATA HDD/SSD (2 or more for RAID setup).

• Motherboard: Must support AHCI or RAID mode.

• Network Card (NIC): Intel chipsets (e.g., e1000e, igb) are highly compatible.

• Boot Device: USB flash drive (minimum 1 GB) to host the Xpenology bootloader.

Ensure your components are supported by the RedPill or Jun’s Loader version you plan to use. Community forums and compatibility lists are valuable resources for this step.

3. BIOS / UEFI Configuration

Proper BIOS configuration ensures DSM detects all drives and boots successfully.

• Enable AHCI Mode for all SATA ports.

• Disable Secure Boot (DSM bootloaders often fail with it enabled).

• Enable USB Boot Priority and set the USB drive as the first boot device.

• Disable unnecessary controllers (e.g., floppy, legacy serial ports).

• If using virtualization, enable VT-x/AMD-V for better performance.

Once these settings are configured, save changes and reboot your system.

4. Network Configuration

Since DSM runs as a network-based NAS OS, a stable connection is crucial.

• Use a wired Ethernet connection; Wi-Fi is not supported for installation.

• Ensure your router assigns a valid IP address (via DHCP).

• If your system isn’t visible, use Synology Assistant to discover devices on your local network.

• Note the MAC address and Serial Number if you plan to use Synology QuickConnect or certain packages.

5. Software and Files Required

You’ll need a few essential tools to prepare for installation:

• Bootloader (e.g., TinyCore RedPill) – downloads the DSM installer.

• DSM.PAT File – Synology’s operating system image.

• Rufus / BalenaEtcher – to write the bootloader image to a USB drive.

• Synology Assistant / Web Browser – to access the DSM installation page.

Keep all files organized in one folder and verify the DSM version matches your chosen loader for compatibility.

6. Storage Preparation

All drives will be formatted during installation.

• Back up any existing data before proceeding.

• Use new or empty drives to avoid partition conflicts.

• Plan your RAID configuration (e.g., SHR, RAID 1, RAID 5) depending on the number of disks available.

For testing or home use, Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR) is ideal for flexibility and protection.

7. Safety and Data Considerations

Xpenology provides Synology-like functionality but does not include Synology’s official warranty or cloud support.

• Use it for personal or non-critical data only.

• Avoid enabling automatic DSM updates; they can break compatibility.

• Maintain regular external backups for important files.

8. The Epis Technology Advantage

At Epis Technology, we specialize in Synology-based infrastructure, data management, and private cloud solutions, including hybrid environments inspired by Xpenology frameworks. Our experts guide clients in deploying custom NAS systems with enterprise-grade security, backup automation, and optimized hardware compatibility. Epis Technology ensures each installation, whether official Synology or Xpenology, is stable, secure, and fully tailored to performance and scalability needs. We transform complex setup processes into seamless data management solutions.

9. Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

Most setup problems can be resolved through careful hardware selection and BIOS tuning.

10. Final Setup and First Boot

Once the bootloader initializes:

1. Open Synology Assistant or visit find.synology.com.

2. Follow the DSM installation wizard.

3. Upload the .PAT file when prompted.

4. Complete setup, configure RAID, and create user accounts.

Your Xpenology NAS will now function similarly to an official Synology device, offering file sharing, backups, and app installations through DSM.

Installing Xpenology is an excellent way to explore Synology’s powerful DSM ecosystem using custom hardware. However, proper preparation, hardware compatibility, BIOS configuration, and network readiness are critical to success. By following these prerequisites, you can achieve a stable and efficient NAS environment for personal or development use.
For businesses seeking reliability, scalability, and security, Epis Technology provides expert solutions that combine Synology innovation with enterprise-grade infrastructure, ensuring your data is always protected, connected, and optimized for performance.