Using Synology Chat: Streamlined Team Communication and Collaboration
In today’s fast-paced digital workplace, effective communication tools are critical for productivity and collaboration. Synology Chat offers a secure, private, and efficient messaging platform designed to enhance teamwork while protecting sensitive business data.
Unlike public chat services that rely on cloud servers, Synology Chat operates on your own Synology NAS, ensuring full ownership and control of your communication environment. It’s ideal for organizations that value privacy, reliability, and seamless integration with their existing infrastructure.
1. What Is Synology Chat?
Synology Chat is a private instant messaging service integrated into Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM) ecosystem. It enables teams to communicate in real time through web browsers, desktop clients, and mobile apps, all while keeping data stored securely on local servers.
With Synology Chat, organizations can:
Exchange messages and files privately.
Create dedicated channels for departments or projects.
Manage permissions and user access.
Integrate with productivity tools and automation workflows.
This makes it a powerful alternative to public cloud chat tools such as Slack or Microsoft Teams, particularly for data-sensitive industries.
2. Key Features of Synology Chat
a. Private and Secure Messaging
All conversations are hosted on your NAS, giving you full control over storage and security policies. Administrators can enforce encryption, backups, and access restrictions to safeguard communication.
b. Group Channels and Conversations
Teams can create public or private channels for projects, departments, or clients. Members can share updates, links, or files while maintaining message history for reference.
c. File Sharing and Collaboration
Synology Chat integrates with Synology Drive and Synology Office, allowing users to send documents directly or co-edit files without leaving the chat interface.
d. Cross-Platform Accessibility
Synology Chat supports desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) and mobile (iOS, Android) apps, as well as a browser-based interface, ensuring that teams stay connected anywhere.
e. Integration and Automation
Through Chat Webhooks and Bot API, Synology Chat can connect with third-party tools or custom scripts. For example, teams can automate notifications from CRM systems, project trackers, or IT monitoring tools.
f. Message Search and History
Powerful search filters help users find past messages, links, and attachments quickly, making it easier to reference discussions or project details.
3. Benefits of Using Synology Chat
Enhanced Privacy: No third-party servers or external data storage.
Centralized Management: All communications are managed through DSM, simplifying IT control.
Cost Efficiency: Avoid monthly subscription fees associated with cloud-based platforms.
Customizability: Integration with Synology tools allows tailored workflows.
Collaboration Efficiency: Combine chat, file sharing, and video conferencing within one ecosystem.
Whether for a small business or an enterprise, Synology Chat scales easily with organizational needs.
4. How to Set Up Synology Chat
Step 1: Install the Synology Chat Server
Log in to your DiskStation Manager (DSM).
Open Package Center.
Search for “Synology Chat” and click Install.
Step 2: Access the Chat Interface
Once installed, you can open Chat from the main menu. You’ll be able to create channels, send private messages, and manage users.
Step 3: Configure Permissions
Navigate to Control Panel → User → Permissions to define access rights for each department or group.
Step 4: Enable Mobile and Desktop Apps
Download and connect the Synology Chat client using the NAS IP address or QuickConnect ID to sync across devices.
Step 5: Integrate with Other Synology Services
Use Synology Calendar for task scheduling.
Link with Synology Drive to share files instantly.
Connect with Synology Office to co-edit documents.
5. The Epis Technology Advantage
At Epis Technology, we specialize in deploying Synology-powered collaboration environments that combine performance, privacy, and scalability. Our experts configure Synology Chat, Drive, and Office within secure NAS ecosystems, helping organizations create unified communication hubs without sacrificing data control.
By integrating encrypted storage, automated backup, and network monitoring, Epis Technology ensures every conversation, file, and notification remains confidential, compliant, and instantly accessible. Whether you’re managing internal teams or cross-organization communication, we help you build digital workspaces where efficiency and security coexist seamlessly.
6. Tips for Maximizing Synology Chat Efficiency
Create Dedicated Channels: Keep discussions organized by topic or department.
Use Mentions (@): Quickly grab teammates’ attention in busy threads.
Pin Important Messages: Highlight key updates for visibility.
Integrate Bots: Automate notifications from other business systems.
Enable Backups: Use Synology Hyper Backup to secure Chat data.
7. Synology Chat vs. Cloud-Based Messaging Apps
| Feature | Synology Chat | Cloud Chat Apps (e.g., Slack) |
|---|---|---|
| Data Ownership | Fully local, self-hosted | Stored on third-party servers |
| Security | Encrypted and customizable | Limited control over data |
| Cost | One-time hardware investment | Ongoing monthly subscription |
| Integration | Works with Synology Drive, Office, Calendar | Limited unless premium |
| Scalability | Flexible for SMBs and enterprises | Depends on subscription tier |
This comparison highlights Synology Chat’s appeal for organizations prioritizing privacy and cost efficiency.
8. Common Issues and Troubleshooting
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Chat not loading | Incorrect DSM port settings | Verify reverse proxy or port configuration |
| Missing notifications | App permissions disabled | Enable push notifications in settings |
| User cannot connect | Incorrect NAS IP or QuickConnect ID | Re-enter credentials and verify the connection |
| File sharing errors | Drive integration is not enabled | Reconnect the Synology Drive package |
Synology Chat transforms internal communication by combining the speed of instant messaging with the control of self-hosted infrastructure. It allows teams to collaborate securely, share information efficiently, and integrate workflows, all without relying on third-party services.
With Epis Technology’s Synology deployment expertise, organizations gain a fully optimized chat environment that enhances teamwork, boosts productivity, and protects digital privacy. In a connected world, Synology Chat stands out as a solution that puts control, communication, and confidence back into your hands.