Synology NAS Initial Setup: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Setting up your Synology NAS (Network Attached Storage) is more than just connecting hardware; it’s about creating a secure, centralized, and efficient data ecosystem. In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through every stage of the process, from unboxing and installation to advanced network configuration and performance optimization.

1. Understanding Synology NAS: What It Is and Why It Matters

A Synology NAS is a powerful, multi-purpose storage server designed for both personal and business use. It offers centralized data access, file synchronization, data protection, and cloud backup integration, all controlled through Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM).

Key benefits:

• Centralized file management across devices.

• Private cloud storage with full data ownership.

• Advanced backup and recovery solutions.

• Multimedia streaming, virtualization, and Docker hosting.

• Scalable storage with RAID redundancy.

2. Preparing for Installation

Before beginning setup, ensure:

• You’ve selected the right Synology NAS model for your needs.

• You have compatible NAS-grade hard drives (e.g., Seagate IronWolf or WD Red).

• Your router supports Gigabit Ethernet and DHCP.

Checklist:

1. Could you unbox your NAS and drives?

2. Connect to the power and the router.

3. Install drives into bays using Synology’s tool-less trays.

4. Power on the NAS.

3. Accessing the DiskStation Manager (DSM)

Once powered, use a browser on the same network and visit:

http://find.synology.com

Or download the Synology Assistant to automatically detect your NAS.

Follow the prompts to:

1. Install the latest DSM firmware.

2. Assign a server name, username, and password.

3. Enable QuickConnect for remote access.

4. Configure automatic updates and notifications.

4. Creating Storage Volumes and File Systems

Open Storage Manager in DSM to configure your drives.

Step 1: Create a Storage Pool

• Select RAID type (Basic, RAID 1, SHR, RAID 5/6/10).

• Allocate drives to the pool.

• Check drive health with S.M.A.R.T. tests.

Step 2: Create Volumes

• Choose Btrfs for snapshot support or EXT4 for performance.

• Assign a volume name and capacity limit.

• Format and confirm setup.

Tip: Btrfs enables faster recovery and advanced data integrity checks — ideal for business environments.

5. Setting Up Shared Folders and Permissions

Shared folders are the foundation of your NAS file system.

To create:

• Go to Control Panel → Shared Folder → Create.

• Name the folder and select its volume.

• Set encryption if storing sensitive data.

• Assign user permissions (Read/Write/None).

Enable the Recycle Bin for each shared folder to recover deleted files easily.

6. Connecting Devices and File Protocols

Enable necessary network protocols for multi-device compatibility:

• SMB / CIFS – for Windows users.

• AFP / NFS – for macOS and Linux.

• FTP / WebDAV – for remote access.

To enable:

• Navigate to Control Panel → File Services.

• Toggle on the desired protocol.

• Configure advanced settings (max connections, speed limits).

7. Setting Up User Accounts and Access Control

Create individual user accounts for better access management.

• Go to Control Panel → User → Create.

• Assign them to Groups (e.g., Admin, Staff, Guest).

• Set storage quotas and application access rights.

Use Directory Server or LDAP integration for enterprise-scale management.

8. Enabling Remote Access via QuickConnect or DDNS

Synology offers multiple remote access options:

Option 1: QuickConnect

• Go to Control Panel → External Access → QuickConnect.

• Register a Synology account.

• Create a unique QuickConnect ID.

Access your NAS anywhere using:

https://QuickConnect.to/YourID

Option 2: Dynamic DNS (DDNS)

• Configure DDNS under External Access → DDNS.

• Link your NAS to a domain name for remote login.

9. Installing Essential Synology Packages

Enhance functionality through Package Center.
Recommended packages:

• Synology Drive Server – file sync and sharing.

• Active Backup for Business – complete data protection.

• Surveillance Station – security camera management.

• Hyper Backup – multi-destination backups.

• Docker – lightweight app deployment.

10. Data Backup and Recovery Setup

Protect your data from loss or corruption.

Local Backups

Use Hyper Backup to copy data to:

• External drives.

• Other Synology NAS devices.

• Remote file servers.

Cloud Backups

Enable Synology C2 Backup for encrypted, off-site storage with global compliance.

Snapshots

If using Btrfs, configure Snapshot Replication to protect shared folders and virtual machines.

11. Security Best Practices

• Enable 2-Step Verification for admin accounts.

• Activate the Firewall under Security Settings.

• Configure auto block for failed login attempts.

• Use SSL certificates for encrypted connections.

• Regularly review DSM Security Advisor reports.

12. Performance Optimization and Monitoring

Use Resource Monitor and Storage Analyzer to track:

• CPU, RAM, and network load.

• Disk I/O and temperature.

• Storage efficiency.

Schedule SMART tests and set up email alerts for critical events.

13. Updating DSM and Packages

Keep your NAS secure and efficient by enabling:

• Automatic DSM updates.

• Package auto-updates via Package Center.

Manual update path:

Control Panel → Update & Restore → DSM Update

14. Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

About Epis Technology

At Epis Technology, we specialize in Synology consulting, NAS deployment, and cloud data protection. Our experts design secure, scalable storage infrastructures for businesses, integrating Synology DSM, C2 Cloud, and Active Backup to ensure data integrity, compliance, and uptime. From architecture to ongoing support, we help you transform your NAS into a powerful enterprise-grade solution.