Synology NAS Security Audit Checklist

Synology

A properly configured Synology NAS can be a highly secure platform for storage, backup, and business applications. However, misconfigurations, outdated settings, or weak access controls can expose your data to serious risks.

This security audit checklist helps businesses ensure their NAS environment is secure, compliant, and resilient against cyber threats.

1. Account and Access Control

Start by reviewing all user accounts and permissions.

Remove unused or inactive accounts
Enforce strong password policies
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Disable default “admin” account or rename it
Apply least-privilege access rules

Controlling access is the first line of defense against unauthorized entry.

2. Network Security Settings

Review how your NAS is exposed to the network.

Disable unnecessary open ports
Avoid direct internet exposure
Use VPN for remote access
Enable Synology firewall rules
Restrict access by IP address where possible

Proper network configuration significantly reduces attack surface.

3. DSM and Package Updates

Outdated systems are a major security risk.

Keep DSM updated to the latest version
Update all installed packages regularly
Enable automatic update notifications
Remove unused or unsupported packages

Regular updates protect against known vulnerabilities.

4. Data Protection and Backup

Ensure your data is protected against loss and ransomware.

Implement the 3-2-1 backup strategy
Enable snapshot replication
Use immutable backup options where possible
Test backup restoration regularly

Backups must be both available and recoverable.

5. Encryption Settings

Protect sensitive data both at rest and in transit.

Enable HTTPS for all connections
Use encrypted shared folders if required
Secure data transfers with SFTP or VPN
Manage encryption keys securely

Encryption prevents unauthorized access to sensitive data.

6. Firewall and Intrusion Protection

Strengthen defenses against external threats.

Enable Synology firewall
Configure intrusion prevention settings
Enable auto-block for failed login attempts
Monitor login attempts and suspicious activity

These features help block brute-force attacks and unauthorized access.

7. Audit Logs and Monitoring

Visibility is critical for security.

Enable system and access logs
Monitor logs regularly
Set up alerts for suspicious activity
Use centralized logging if available

Early detection helps prevent major incidents.

8. Shared Folder and File Permissions

Review file-level access controls.

Limit access to sensitive folders
Avoid overly broad permissions
Regularly audit shared folder access
Remove unnecessary sharing links

Proper permissions reduce internal and external risks.

9. Remote Access Configuration

Secure remote connectivity is essential.

Use VPN instead of port forwarding
Disable QuickConnect if not needed
Enforce secure login methods
Limit remote access to authorized users

Remote access is a common entry point for attacks.

10. Data Integrity and System Health

Ensure your data remains accurate and intact.

Enable data scrubbing
Monitor disk health (SMART checks)
Use file systems with integrity protection
Schedule regular system health checks

This prevents silent data corruption and system failures.

Regular Security Reviews

Security is not a one-time task. Businesses should perform regular audits to adapt to new threats and system changes. Periodic reviews ensure that configurations remain aligned with best practices and evolving cybersecurity requirements.

How Epis Technology Performs Security Audits

Epis Technology helps organizations conduct comprehensive Synology NAS security audits to identify vulnerabilities and implement best practices. From access control to backup security, Epis Technology ensures your environment is fully protected.

The company provides services including Synology consulting, large storage solutions, Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace backups, and fully managed PC backups. Epis Technology also assists with security hardening, monitoring, and compliance.

About Epis Technology

Epis Technology provides enterprise IT infrastructure, Synology consulting, and data protection solutions for organizations of all sizes. The company specializes in Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace backup solutions, large-scale storage systems, fully managed PC backups, and Synology deployment and support. Through expert design, implementation, and optimization, Epis Technology helps businesses secure, manage, and recover their critical data while ensuring performance, scalability, and cybersecurity resilience.