Problems with QuickConnect and API integration

Why QuickConnect and APIs Don’t Always Work Well Together

Synology QuickConnect is not meant to be a full API gateway; it is meant to make it easier for users to access things from afar. QuickConnect works well for browser access, mobile apps, and basic services, but companies often run into problems when they try to connect it to APIs, automation tools, or third-party apps.

Businesses that use Synology NAS systems with integrations, scripting, monitoring tools, or custom applications need to know about these problems.

A High-Level Look at How QuickConnect Works

QuickConnect is an abstraction layer that sits between external clients and the NAS. It may use:

• Direct connections
• NAT traversal
• Relay servers from Synology

This dynamic routing is great for making things easy to get to, but it makes API-based communication less reliable because it often expects stable endpoints and consistent network behavior.

Common Problems with QuickConnect API Integration: Unpredictable Connection Paths

Most of the time, APIs need stable, direct connections. QuickConnect can switch between direct and relay paths quickly, which can lead to:

• Response times that aren’t always the same
• Breaks in the session
• Errors in automation scripts that happen when the script times out

Because of this behavior, QuickConnect is not reliable for apps that need predictable network routing.

Not much help for custom ports and services

QuickConnect mostly works with regular Synology services. QuickConnect might not be able to access custom APIs or apps that run on non-standard ports, especially when relay connections are used.

This makes it less useful for:

• Applications that are made to order
• Agents that keep an eye on things
• Scripts for checking backups
• Integrations with other companies

Problems with Authentication and Token Handling

Persistent authentication tokens or session-based access are often needed for API integrations. QuickConnect’s relay-based access can get in the way of:

• Session persistence
• Checking tokens
• Access controls based on IP

These problems happen a lot when APIs expect direct communication between clients and servers.

Limits on Performance and Latency

When QuickConnect goes back to relay servers, the API’s performance can get a lot worse. Latency that is higher affects:

• Tools for monitoring in real time
• Workflows for automation
• Checking the status of backups

Relay-based access is often not acceptable for integrations that need to be done quickly.

Limitations on Security and Compliance

Some businesses need strict control over IP allowlists, access paths, and audit trails. QuickConnect hides details about the network, which can make things more difficult:

• Watching for security
• Reporting on compliance
• Detecting intrusions

This lack of openness is a problem in places where rules are in place.

QuickConnect Is Not an API Gateway

QuickConnect was never meant to take the place of:

• Access to a VPN
• Settings for reverse proxies
• Dedicated API gateways

It puts usability ahead of control over the architecture. Trying to make QuickConnect work as an API integration tool often leads to problems with stability and security.

Better Ways to Access APIs: VPN-Based Access

A VPN lets you connect directly to the NAS over a secure network. APIs work in a predictable way because:

• IP addressing is always the same.
• You can get to all of the ports.
• Policies for security can be enforced.

This is the best way to get administrative and automated access.

Reverse Proxy with Safe Certificates

A reverse proxy that is set up correctly lets you control access to external APIs while keeping:

• Encryption with HTTPS
• Logging access
• Limiting the rate

This method gives you more options and visibility than QuickConnect.

Direct Access with Firewall Settings

For fixed integrations, direct access with strict firewall rules and IP restrictions gives you:

• The best performance
• Behavior that can be predicted
• Audit trails that are clear

This method works well for systems and platforms that you can trust.

When QuickConnect Still Makes Sense

QuickConnect is still useful for:

• People can get to DSM
• Apps for mobile devices

Sometimes you can access files from afar.

It should be seen as a helpful feature, not a way to automate or connect things.

Best Ways for Businesses to Use APIs with Synology

To stop problems from happening again:

1. Make sure that user access and API access are not the same.
2. Only use QuickConnect for interactive sessions.
3. Use a VPN or reverse proxy to connect to other systems.
4. Check logs and access patterns on a regular basis.

This separation makes things more reliable and safe.

What this means for IT teams in terms of strategy

As more and more businesses automate storage, backups, and monitoring, it becomes more and more important to have reliable API access. Using QuickConnect for these tasks adds extra risk and complexity that isn’t needed.

Making sure the right access architecture is in place means:

• Integrations that are stable
• Performance that can be counted on
• Strong security stance

Epis Technology in a Nutshell

Epis Technology helps businesses design secure and reliable access architectures by offering enterprise IT infrastructure, data protection, and Synology consulting services. The company focuses on setting up Synology, planning API integration, making remote access safe, and speeding up performance. Epis Technology keeps Synology environments stable, secure, and scalable by separating convenience access from automation and integration workflows.