UPDATE – The UniFi UNAS Pro NAS is now available and can be found HERE

The UniFi UNAS Pro is Ubiquiti’s first major leap into the NAS (Network Attached Storage) market, building on the success of their networking hardware and ecosystem. This rackmount NAS aims to provide a cost-effective, streamlined option, especially for those who are already invested in the UniFi product ecosystem. But is this device the right choice for your storage needs? In this detailed review, we’ll explore the pros and cons of the UniFi UNAS Pro to help you decide.

Pros of the UniFi UNAS Pro NAS

1. Competitive Pricing

One of the most remarkable selling points of the UniFi UNAS Pro is its price. Retailing at $499, the UNAS Pro offers a 7-bay rackmount NAS, which is significantly more affordable than many competing NAS devices with similar hardware capabilities. For this price, you get a quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 processor, 8GB of DDR4 memory, and a built-in 10GbE networking port alongside a 1GbE port, without the need for additional licenses. In comparison, similar rackmount NAS devices from brands like Synology and QNAP are typically priced closer to $800 or even $1,000. For example, a comparable system like the QNAP TS-832PX often costs around $900 but comes with similar performance in terms of storage and connectivity options. The value proposition is undeniable, especially when you factor in that UniFi’s NAS software comes with no extra costs for features like snapshot management or backups. For small businesses or home users looking for high-capacity storage at a low price, the UniFi UNAS Pro is a solid choice.

2. Ease of Use

Ubiquiti has a long-standing reputation for designing user-friendly products, and the UNAS Pro is no exception. The NAS system comes with an intuitive user interface that’s reminiscent of UniFi’s networking equipment management software, making it easy for existing UniFi users to get up and running quickly. The interface, whether accessed via the web or through UniFi’s mobile app, offers a clean, straightforward experience.

The mobile app, which supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, allows you to monitor and manage the NAS on the go. This functionality is particularly useful for small businesses where IT support might not always be readily available. Additionally, the built-in LCD panel on the front of the device allows for on-the-spot diagnostics and control without needing to access the web interface, offering a more hands-on approach to managing your NAS.

3. Offline Setup Capability

One standout feature of the UniFi UNAS Pro is its ability to be set up and managed offline. Many NAS systems require users to create an online account to access core features or manage the device, but with the UNAS Pro, you can set up local credentials and manage the device without ever needing to connect to the cloud. This means you can retain complete control over your data and avoid sharing anything with external services, which is an attractive option for users who prioritize privacy. Though you will miss out on certain remote access features without a UniFi cloud account, this offline setup capability is ideal for environments where internet access may be unreliable or for users who prefer to keep their storage network air-gapped from the wider web.

Keep in mind however that setting the device up without a UI.com / UniFi account will limit some of the remote access and additional security verification features of the UNAS Pro.

4. Modular Updates

UniFi has implemented a modular update system that makes software maintenance more flexible and customizable. Rather than requiring full system reboots or blanket updates that affect every part of the NAS at once, the UNAS Pro allows users to schedule and manage individual updates for the NAS OS and each of its applications. You can select between stable updates or more cutting-edge early access updates for those who prefer to stay on the forefront of new features. This update system ensures that you can keep critical parts of your system updated while minimizing disruptions to services. For example, you might set security updates to apply immediately while delaying other updates until a convenient time. For a NAS that’s designed to run continuously, this granular control is a valuable feature.

5. Solid Core Features

For its first foray into the NAS market, UniFi has done an excellent job at providing all the core features users expect from a modern NAS. The UNAS Pro excels in basic NAS functionality, such as file storage, folder creation, and permission management. Its a very straight forward system to understand and use, as well as a very responsive GUI (especially for the internal hardware it has being so modest). Whether backing up to another NAS or a cloud service, browsing files/folders on the fly, managing active shares quickly – the process is straightforward and reliable.

RAID support is available out of the box, allowing users to configure their drives for performance, redundancy, or a balance of both. While the hardware might not be top-tier, UniFi has ensured that its software nails down the fundamentals, providing reliable performance for small businesses and home users.

6. 10GbE Connectivity

At this price point, the inclusion of a 10GbE networking port is a significant advantage. Many NAS devices in this price range only include 1GbE or, at best, 2.5GbE networking. The 10GbE port on the UniFi UNAS Pro enables much faster data transfer rates, particularly for users dealing with large file transfers such as video production teams, graphic designers, or those needing to back up multiple systems simultaneously. For small businesses that need faster network throughput without breaking the bank, the UNAS Pro is an excellent option.

7. Seamless UniFi Ecosystem Integration

The UniFi UNAS Pro integrates seamlessly with the broader UniFi product ecosystem. If you’re already using UniFi routers, switches, or access points, the UNAS Pro can be managed alongside these devices through the same UniFi controller interface.

This makes it easy to monitor and manage all your network infrastructure from a single dashboard. For businesses already invested in UniFi, this integration adds significant value and simplifies network management.

8. Very Easy Snapshot and Backup Management

The UNAS Pro’s snapshot management is another highlight. It allows for easy setup and quick recovery of snapshots, making it a powerful tool for backing up and restoring data.

Whether you’re scheduling automatic snapshots or manually backing up your most important files, the system is responsive and reliable. Data can also be backed up to a cloud service like Google Drive, adding flexibility to your data management strategy.

Cons of the UniFi UNAS Pro NAS

1. Modest Hardware Specifications

Despite its many strengths, the UniFi UNAS Pro’s hardware can feel somewhat underwhelming, especially for more demanding users. The device is powered by a quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 processor, which is capable but not nearly as powerful as the Intel or AMD x86 processors found in higher-end NAS devices.

Specification	Details
Brand	UniFi (from Ubiquiti)
Model	UniFi UNAS Professional Rackmount NAS
Dimensions	442.4 x 325 x 43.7 mm (17.4 x 12.8 x 1.7 inches)
Weight	Without Rackmount Brackets: 5.11 kg (11.27 lb)
	With Rackmount Brackets: 5.20 kg (11.46 lb)
Enclosure Characteristics	SGCC Steel
Processor	Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A57 at 1.7 GHz
System Memory	8GB DDR4
On-Board Flash Storage	SPI NOR 32 MB, USB Flash 8 GB
Power Supply	200W Lipet Internal
Max. Power Consumption	160W
Max. Power Budget for Drives	135W
Power Method	(1) Universal AC Input
	(1) RPS DC Input
Power Supply	100-240VAC, 50/60 Hz, 2A
Networking Interfaces	(1) 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ45 Ethernet
	(1) 1/10 Gbps SFP+ Ethernet
Management Interface	Ethernet In-Band Management
ESD/EMP Protection	Air: ±12kV, Contact: ±8kV
Operating Temperature	-5 to 40° C (23 to 104° F)
Operating Humidity	5 – 95% Non-condensing
LED Indicators	System: (1) Power, Blue/White

While the ARM processor is energy-efficient and suitable for basic tasks like file storage, it lacks the muscle required for more demanding workloads like virtualization, media transcoding, or running complex applications.

For users who need to perform CPU-intensive tasks or run multiple concurrent operations, the ARM architecture could be a limiting factor. Although it’s understandable that UniFi opted for ARM to keep costs down, this choice might alienate users looking for a high-performance solution.

2. Limited Expandability

One of the most significant downsides of the UniFi UNAS Pro is its lack of expandability. While the 7-bay design offers substantial storage out of the box, there are no options for expanding the system beyond that. The device lacks PCIe slots for adding features like SSD caching, additional networking interfaces, or other hardware upgrades. Additionally, the 8GB of DDR4 RAM is non-upgradable, which means users are stuck with the default memory capacity—limiting the NAS’s potential to handle more intensive applications or larger numbers of users.

This lack of scalability could be a dealbreaker for businesses or IT professionals who expect their storage needs to grow over time and want a system that can grow with them.

3. Single Storage Pool

Unlike more advanced NAS systems that allow users to create multiple storage pools, the UniFi UNAS Pro is limited to a single storage pool. This limitation could be problematic for users who want to segregate different types of data or use different storage media, such as SSDs for high-speed access and HDDs for bulk storage. While the system does allow for RAID configurations, the lack of flexibility in storage pool management could be a downside for more advanced users who need granular control over their storage environments.

4. No Redundant Power Supply

For businesses that require constant uptime, the lack of a redundant power supply on the UniFi UNAS Pro is a significant shortcoming. While the device does support an external uninterruptible power supply (UPS), it lacks the built-in redundancy that is common in many higher-end NAS systems. Redundant power supplies are critical in ensuring that hardware failures don’t lead to extended downtime. Without this feature, the UNAS Pro may not be suitable for mission-critical environments where uptime is a priority.

5. Lack of UniFi Protect Support

A surprising omission in the UniFi UNAS Pro is its lack of support for UniFi Protect, UniFi’s popular video surveillance platform. UniFi Protect is available on other UniFi hardware such as the Dream Machine and UNVR systems, but it cannot be installed on the UNAS Pro. This is a missed opportunity, especially for users who might want to centralize their storage and surveillance needs on a single device. While future software updates may address this, the current lack of Protect support limits the device’s versatility, particularly for small businesses or homeowners looking to consolidate network and surveillance management.

6. Absence of Popular NAS Apps and Virtualization

Compared to more established NAS solutions like QNAP or Synology, the UniFi UNAS Pro falls short when it comes to app availability. There’s no support for popular applications like Plex or Docker, which limits its utility for users who want to run media servers, manage smart home devices, or deploy containerized applications. This absence is particularly noticeable when compared to NAS solutions from other brands that have built extensive app ecosystems over many years. Additionally, the lack of virtualization support makes the UNAS Pro less appealing for businesses that need to run virtual machines or isolated environments for development and testing. While this might not matter to users looking for simple storage solutions, it’s a glaring omission for power users.

While the UniFi UNAS Pro covers the basics well, it lacks many of the advanced features that have become standard in more mature NAS systems. There’s no support for containerization, virtual environments, or advanced SaaS integrations like Google Workspace or Office 365. These high-end features are often essential for businesses with complex workflows or larger teams. The absence of these capabilities makes the UNAS Pro less competitive for users who need more than basic file storage and backups.

7. Limited OS Client Tools and File Syncing

Although the UNAS Pro offers a web interface and easy-to-use file sharing features, it lacks the more sophisticated client tools available on competing NAS platforms. For instance, Synology Drive and QNAP QSync offer robust client tools that allow users to sync files across multiple devices or manage their NAS more comprehensively from their desktop, without any need to engage with the system dashboard or the NAS GUI itself – with all file synchronization happening in the background whilst they only interact with their native OS file manager. By contrast, the UniFi UNAS Pro’s file syncing tools are fairly limited and although mapping via SMB and similar is possible, there is little to no live sync tools at launch, which could be frustrating for users looking for more advanced file management capabilities. I really think this is something that UniFi will remedy in time, but at least right now, this is absent to the same degree as their new NAS competitors.

Should You Buy the UniFi UNAS Pro NAS?

The UniFi UNAS Pro is a compelling entry into the NAS market, offering excellent value for money, ease of use, and seamless integration with the UniFi ecosystem. For users looking for a simple, reliable NAS solution that can handle basic storage tasks and backups, the UNAS Pro is a great option, particularly at its competitive price point of $499. However, the device’s limitations in hardware scalability, application support, and advanced features mean that it may not be the best choice for power users or businesses with more complex needs – at least at launch. If you’re already invested in UniFi’s ecosystem and only need a NAS for fundamental storage and backups, the UNAS Pro is a solid choice. But for users seeking greater flexibility, more advanced features, or the ability to scale their storage, other NAS systems from QNAP or Synology may be a better fit.

I feel like a bit of a broken record in this review, and I keep repeating the same two words in conjunction with the UniFi UNAS Pro—fundamentals and consistency! It’s pretty clear that UniFi has prioritized the need for this system to perfectly complement their existing UniFi ecosystem and make it a true part of their hardware portfolio. In doing so, it has resulted in them focusing considerably on the fundamental storage requirements of a NAS system and making sure that these are as good as they possibly can be out of the gate. To this end, I would say that UniFi has unquestionably succeeded. The cracks in the surface begin once you start comparing this system with other offerings in the market right now—which is inevitably what users are going to do and have been doing since the first indications of a UniFi NAS system were being rumored. It may seem tremendously unfair to compare the newly released UniFi NAS with solutions from vendors that have had more than 20 years of experience in this field, but for a business that wants to fully detach themselves from the cloud and wants true user-friendly but highly featured control of their network operations, comparison is inevitable! The UniFi UNAS Pro is an excellent choice for users seeking a budget-friendly, easy-to-use NAS solution with solid core features and strong integration into the UniFi ecosystem. However, for those needing more advanced capabilities or future-proof scalability, it may be worth exploring other options in the NAS market.

BUILD QUALITY - 10/10

HARDWARE - 7/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.2

PROS

Nails down the fundamentals of NAS Storage very well
Easy to use GUI and well suited in the UniFi Ecosystem/UX
Complete Offline Use is supported
Use of a UI account is NOT compulsory
Excellently deployed Snapshot Features
10GbE out-the-box
Open HDD Compatibility, but also 1st party options too
Backup and Restoration Options Nailed down perfectly
Very power efficient and CPU/, Memory utilization rarely high
Compact, Quite and well designed chassis
The LCD controls are completely \'different level\' compared to other brands in the market
Promised competitive pricing
FAST deployment (3-5mins tops)
Reactive Storage expandability and easy-to-understand storage failover options
Mobile app deployment is intuitive/fast
Feels stable, secure and reliable at all times
Performance is respectable (considering SATA Bay count and CPU) but also sustained performance is very good
Single screen dashboard is clear and intuitive
Ditto for the native file explorer

CONS

7 Bays is a bit unusual, plus feels like the existing UNVR with different firmware
Additional App installation (eg. \'Protect\') not currently supported. So no container support for 3rd party apps
Network Controls are limited
Works at it\'s best in an existing UniFi managed network, feels a little limited in \'standalone\'
Multiple storage pools not supported (nor is RAID 0)
Lack of Scheduled On/Off
Lack of redundant PSU
Only 1 10Gb port and 1x 1GbE, no USBs for expanded storage or an expansion

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UPDATE – The UniFi UNAS Pro NAS is now available and can be found HERE

In the world of Network Attached Storage (NAS), Synology has been a dominant player for over two decades, recognized for its extensive range of products, robust features, and seamless user experience. UniFi, by contrast, is a newcomer in the NAS market, having built a reputation for excellence in networking solutions under the umbrella of Ubiquiti. With the recent release of the UniFi UNAS Pro, the company is entering a highly competitive space dominated by established NAS providers like Synology. This article takes an in-depth look at both Synology’s NAS solutions and UniFi’s first NAS system. It compares the two across key aspects such as price, hardware, software, expandability, and company history, offering insights for both casual users and IT professionals considering which NAS system is right for them.

UniFi UNAS Pro vs Synology NAS – Price

When it comes to pricing, Synology and UniFi are positioned at different ends of the spectrum, catering to a wide variety of users with different needs and budgets.

UniFi‘s UNAS Pro, priced at $499, offers a 7-bay rackmount NAS with 10GbE networking capabilities, making it a highly competitive option, particularly for users already embedded in the UniFi ecosystem. This pricing is aggressive for a rackmount system, as most NAS systems with similar features are priced higher. The UNAS Pro is designed to offer an affordable entry point into the world of NAS for small businesses, IT enthusiasts, or existing UniFi users looking to expand their infrastructure with file storage.

By comparison, Synology offers a wide range of NAS devices, starting with affordable 2-bay home systems and scaling up to high-end rackmount systems designed for large enterprises. For example, the Synology DS923+, which retails around $499, provides a 4-bay desktop solution with expandable 10GbE support and an x86 processor, giving it a slight edge in performance over the UNAS Pro for the same price. However, Synology’s rackmount offerings, such as the RS422+, start at $599 for a 4-bay system, and prices quickly rise for larger models with more features and higher-end hardware.

The price difference between these two brands becomes more apparent as you explore Synology’s higher-end options. Their enterprise-grade NAS systems with features like redundant power supplies, dual controllers, and PCIe expansion slots can cost well over $1,000, whereas UniFi’s UNAS Pro remains a single, relatively fixed offering at the lower end of the price range.

In terms of long-term value, UniFi clearly offers a more affordable entry into the NAS market, particularly for users who already use UniFi’s networking products. However, Synology provides a much broader pricing structure, with options that allow users to scale up based on their growing needs—whether for home, SMB, or enterprise use.

Synology vs UniFi NAS – Hardware / Range / Value for Money

The hardware offered by both Synology and UniFi reflects their differing approaches to the NAS market. UniFi’s UNAS Pro is positioned as an affordable 7-bay rackmount solution, with a focus on simplicity and integration into the broader UniFi ecosystem. The UNAS Pro features a quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 processor, 8GB DDR4 memory, and a 10GbE port with an additional 1GbE port. Its hardware is designed to deliver adequate performance for tasks like file storage, backups, and basic networking, but it lacks advanced features like NVMe SSD support or expandable RAM. This makes it a good fit for users who want reliable storage without the need for heavy processing power or extensive scalability.

Synology, on the other hand, offers an extensive range of hardware, from small 2-bay models for personal use to enterprise-grade solutions. Synology’s systems often feature Intel or AMD processors, expandable RAM, and support for NVMe SSD caching. For example, the Synology DS923+ comes with an AMD Ryzen R1600 processor, expandable RAM, and optional 10GbE support, making it more powerful and flexible than the UNAS Pro for users needing higher performance. Additionally, Synology’s rackmount models like the RS422+ offer robust hardware for business environments, with support for redundant power supplies and PCIe slots for expansion.

Where Synology truly shines is in the variety of hardware it offers, allowing users to select devices that suit their exact needs, whether it’s a small 2-bay NAS for personal backups or a large-scale rackmount NAS for a data-heavy business. Synology’s hardware flexibility ensures that users can start small and scale up over time, adding more storage, faster networking, or additional computing power as needed. The comparison below highlights the differences in hardware between UniFi and 1 Synology NAS at a similar price point (DS923+), and another that is similar in hardware (RS422+:

Verdict on Hardware: While the UNAS Pro provides excellent value for its price, especially with its 7-bay capacity, Synology offers a broader and more flexible range of hardware options. Synology’s systems are better suited for users who need scalability, processing power, and more advanced features like NVMe SSD caching and expandable RAM.

UniFi NAS vs Synolgoy NAS – Software Presentation

The software interface of a NAS system is crucial to its usability, and here, the differences between Synology and UniFi are stark. Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM) is known for its user-friendly, graphical interface that feels similar to using a desktop operating system. DSM provides users with a desktop-like environment, complete with drag-and-drop functionality, customizable wallpapers, and a taskbar for quick access to applications. This layout makes it easy for both novice and experienced users to navigate the system, install applications, manage files, and perform backups. The interface is intuitive, with large icons and a clean, modern design that encourages exploration and productivity.

In contrast, UniFi’s UNAS OS is designed with a more text-based, data-centric approach. Borrowing from UniFi’s successful networking interfaces, the UNAS OS focuses heavily on analytics and system monitoring, making it ideal for users already familiar with UniFi’s ecosystem. The interface provides detailed insights into system performance, file transfer speeds, and network activity, which are displayed in simple, granular dashboards. While it may not have the graphical polish of Synology’s DSM, the UNAS OS excels in presenting network data and providing tools for IT administrators who prioritize system efficiency over aesthetics.

UniFi’s single-pane design keeps all relevant information within reach, but it lacks the app-based approach that Synology users are accustomed to. Synology’s DSM, on the other hand, organizes features into discrete applications, making it easy to jump between tasks like file management, backup scheduling, and multimedia streaming. Below is a table that summarizes the key differences in software presentation between UniFi and Synology at a glance (bigger chart soon, don’t worry!):

Feature	UNAS OS	DSM 7.2
User Interface Style	Text-based, network analytics	Desktop-like, graphical interface
Customization	Minimal	Quite customizable (wallpaper, layout, shortcuts)
Mobile App Support	Limited	Extensive
Third-Party App Store	No	Yes (Synology Package Center)
Storage Interface	Simplified, easy to use	Comparatively Advanced, easy-to-use

Verdict on Software Presentation: Synology’s DSM clearly offers a more engaging and customizable user experience, while UniFi’s UNAS OS focuses on providing a streamlined, efficient interface for users already familiar with the UniFi ecosystem. Users looking for an intuitive, desktop-like experience will prefer DSM, while those focused on networking performance and integration may find the UNAS OS more suitable.

Synology vs UniFi – Software Security

Security is paramount for NAS systems, as they often store sensitive data and operate in environments where external access is necessary. Both UniFi and Synology offer security features, but they take different approaches based on their respective ecosystems.

Synology DSM offers a full suite of security features, including two-factor authentication (2FA), firewall configuration, and behavioral analysis to monitor suspicious activities. DSM allows users to integrate third-party security tools, such as Google Authenticator or OTP services, providing flexibility for businesses that already use external authentication systems. Additionally, DSM includes SSL certificates and IP blocking, ensuring that only trusted users can access the system. Synology also has an inbuilt security scanner that checks the system periodically (ad hoc if you want too) for potential weaknesses in the system configuration,which can be set to a home or business class standard (custom too).

UniFi’s UNAS Pro integrates security measures more closely tied to the broader UniFi ecosystem. 2FA is also available but typically relies on UniFi’s own authentication services, such as the UniFi Identity App. This may be limiting for users who prefer third-party authentication tools. The UNAS OS benefits from UniFi’s enterprise-grade network security tools, such as IP monitoring and network relay services, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the entire network infrastructure. However, its NAS-specific security tools, such as DOS protection and auto-lock, are less extensive than Synology’s.

UniFi’s focus on network-level security makes it ideal for businesses that already use UniFi networking hardware, as the UNAS Pro can integrate seamlessly with UniFi switches and security gateways.

However, Synology’s in-system security tools are more comprehensive, making DSM a better choice for users who prioritize NAS-specific security features. It’s also worth remembering that the majority of remote access security features of the UniFi UNAS Pro are locked into use with he UI.COM / UniFi account system. You cannot use 3rd party 2FA/OTP applications or use 3rd party remote access services like Tailscale or Teamviewer.

That said, BOTH systems provide a regular rotation of security and feature system updates over the years that they will be in operation, so the latest security fixes and improvements that are needed to combat vulnerabilities that appear i nthe wild can be automatically adjusted for. However, UniFi does provide a little something extra with simple modular update control. Synology DOES allow you to install updates on the whole OS and/or individual Apps (or be alerted about them but action when it best suits your needs for a restart), but the UniFi UNAS Pro presents this in a much easier to action single option, that allows for full update control to be more granular for either the OS or the application service(s). It’s no more/less than the synology DSM option, but it is presented a great deal more cleanly.

UniFi NAS OS vs Synology DSM – Software Features

When comparing the software features of Synology and UniFi, it’s clear that Synology has had years to develop a rich, feature-packed operating system, while UniFi‘s UNAS OS is still in its infancy. Synology DSM (DiskStation Manager) is known for its vast ecosystem of first-party and third-party apps, which provide a wide array of functionalities beyond basic file storage.

By contrast, UniFi UNAS OS focuses on core NAS functions, offering fewer features but maintaining tight integration with UniFi’s networking solutions.

Synology DSM is renowned for its wide range of software features that cater to home users, small businesses, and enterprise environments. DSM is designed to be a complete solution, offering robust support for file management, multimedia streaming, backup solutions, virtualization, and containerized applications. There is even support of a 3rd Party App center that can be added in less than a minute to add even further applications and services to your Synology NAS system:

One of the standout features of DSM is its application center, known as the Synology Package Center. Here, users can find hundreds of first-party and third-party apps that can be easily installed to extend the functionality of their NAS. These apps cover a broad spectrum of use cases, including:

• Plex Media Server / Video Station (for now!) / Audio Station / Synology Photos for media streaming to smart TVs and mobile devices.
• Synology Active Backup for High-end license-free backup management across hundreds/thousands of devices
• Hyper Backup to manage domestic backup Operations
• The Office Collaboration Suite for an email manager, user chat facilities, office package and more
• Synology Container Manager / Docker for running containerized applications, which is essential for developers or businesses needing to test software in isolated environments.
• Virtual Machine Manager (VMM), allows users to run multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and DSM Virtual Appliances, on a single NAS.

For businesses, Synology offers Active Backup for Business, a powerful backup solution that supports PCs, physical servers, virtual machines, and even cloud services like Office 365 and Google Workspace. This makes Synology DSM an attractive option for organizations looking for a comprehensive, multi-platform backup solution. DSM also excels in multimedia management. Apps like Synology Photos and Audio Station allow users to organize and access their photos, music, and videos from anywhere. Video Station, though recently phased out in favor of third-party options like Plex, has historically provided an easy-to-use platform for media streaming and management.

For surveillance needs, Synology offers Surveillance Station, which allows users to turn their NAS into a full-fledged NVR (Network Video Recorder), supporting IP cameras from a wide variety of manufacturers. This feature makes Synology NAS systems a compelling choice for businesses or homeowners who need both data storage and security monitoring.

While UniFi UNAS OS lacks the extensive feature set of DSM, it provides essential NAS features for file storage, snapshot management, and backup scheduling. It’s clear that UniFi’s focus is on simplicity and integration with their broader UniFi ecosystem. Drive is the primary app available on UNAS OS, offering basic file storage and sharing capabilities with snapshot and backup support.

Currently, UNAS OS does not support advanced features like Docker, virtual machines, or third-party media server apps such as Plex. This limits its appeal to more advanced users who need the ability to run multiple services or applications from their NAS. However, UniFi’s focus on network-level integration could be seen as a strength for businesses that already use UniFi networking hardware and want a NAS that fits seamlessly into their existing infrastructure.

There’s also potential for future growth. UniFi has a robust history of adding new features to their products post-launch, and it is possible that UNAS OS could see support for containerized applications like Docker or surveillance software such as UniFi Protect in the future. However, currently UniFi has not allowed Protect to be deployable on the UNAS Pro system – however you can use the UNAS Pro as a targetted storage system for your existing UNVR or UDM system. Most of the features of the UniFi UNAS Pro are not presented as ‘applications’ or ‘optional services’, but rather they are backed into the UX of the NAS OS already. Snapshots, Shared Drives, Security management, SMB file/folder management, Encrypted Drives, etc – all of it is in the OS already. That said, it still feels comparatively feature dry vs the Synology NAS pplatform.

I know I seem to be hammering the UniFi’s UNAS OS hard here, but currently it lacks many of the popular/current advanced capabilities that may appeal to users, favouring their simple and integrated experience over a large feature set. For perspective, here is a full list of what is there and what isn’t:

Software / Service	DSM 7.1/7.2/7.2.2	UNAS Pro
Operating System	DiskStation Manager (DSM) 7.x	UniFi OS (UNAS-specific OS layer)
User Interface	Highly polished, desktop-like interface, intuitive	Simplified interface, single-pane dashboard, focused on network metrics
Mobile Apps	DS Finder, DS File, DS Cloud, DS Photo, DS Video, and more	UniFi Mobile App (Drive management, Snapshots, Backups)
Virtualization	Virtual Machine Manager (Supports Windows, Linux, and DSM Virtual Appliance)	No virtualization support
Container Support	Docker via Container Manager	No Docker or container support
Surveillance	Surveillance Station (2 free camera licenses, additional paid licenses)	No support for UniFi Protect (at launch)
Multimedia Streaming	Plex, Synology Photos, Video Station, Audio Station	No multimedia apps (no Plex or streaming apps support)
RAID Support	Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, Basic, JBOD	RAID 1, 5 and 10 (with RAID 6 coming soon after launch)
Snapshot Support	Yes (Btrfs for supported models), Advanced Snapshot Replication	Yes (Snapshots with scheduling and backup options)
Cloud Backup	Synology C2, Amazon S3, Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive	Google Drive (Limited cloud backup options)
Local Backup Solutions	Hyper Backup, Snapshot Replication	Local NAS backups supported (NAS to NAS)
File Synchronization	Synology Drive (Supports syncing with Windows, macOS, and Linux)	SMB, basic file synchronization with mobile app
Backup for PCs	Active Backup for Business (PCs, Servers, VMs, SaaS, NAS, and Cloud)	Basic backup for Windows, no advanced backup suite
Backup for macOS	Time Machine Support	Time Machine support (via SMB)
External Backup	USB and eSATA Backup	No external backup support
Cloud Integration	Synology Cloud Sync (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, etc.)	Google Drive cloud sync only
Security Features	2FA, firewall, SSL certificates, VPN, Active Insight monitoring	2FA, SSL certificates, integration with UniFi Identity for SSO
Encryption	Full-volume encryption, Folder encryption	Full-volume and folder encryption
Multimedia Apps	Synology Photos, Video Station, Audio Station, Plex	No multimedia apps available
Third-Party App Store	Synology Package Center	No third-party app store
Mobile Backup	Synology Drive (For mobile devices)	Basic mobile backup via UniFi Drive
Cloud Sync	C2 Cloud Sync, Dropbox, Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive	Google Drive only
Collaboration Tools	Synology Office (Similar to Google Docs, Excel)	No collaboration tools
Virtualization Backup	Active Backup for Business (VMware, Hyper-V)	No virtualization backup
AI-Powered Apps	Synology Photos (AI-based photo organization)	No AI-powered apps
High Availability (HA)	Synology High Availability (for redundancy)	No high availability features
NAS as VPN Server	Yes (VPN Plus Server, supports PPTP, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec)	Yes (VPN integration with UniFi Gateway and Identity Enterprise)
App Virtualization	Docker, DSM Virtual Appliances	No virtualization or Docker support
Remote Access	QuickConnect (secure remote access without complex configuration)	UniFi cloud access (requires UI.com account)
Cloud Applications	Synology Cloud Station	No cloud applications beyond Google Drive sync
Video Editing	No built-in tools, use third-party apps like Plex	No video editing or AI tools
Remote Replication	Snapshot Replication (Supports replication between NAS devices)	NAS-to-NAS backup and remote replication supported
Multi-Version Backups	Hyper Backup (Supports multi-versioned backups)	Yes (multi-versioned backups via Snapshots)
Email Server	Synology MailPlus	No email server functionality
Web Server	Web Station (Supports hosting multiple websites)	No web server support
Music Streaming	Audio Station, Plex	No music streaming or audio apps
Drive Health Monitoring	Disk Health Monitoring (SMART, regular drive checks)	SMART drive monitoring
Antivirus	Synology Antivirus Essential, third-party apps	No antivirus tools available
PCIe Expansion	Yes (for some models, supports 10GbE cards, M.2 SSD cache cards)	No PCIe expansion options
Thunderbolt Support	No Thunderbolt support	No Thunderbolt support
SSD Caching	Yes (supports NVMe and SATA SSD caching on select models)	No SSD caching
ZFS File System	No (Uses EXT4 or Btrfs on supported models)	No ZFS support, BTRFS
Ransomware Protection	Yes (dedicated security updates, Snapshot Replication)	Yes (Snapshots, network security via UniFi Gateway integration)
Browser-based access	Yes (Full access via web browser, similar to desktop)	Yes (Single-pane UI via web browser)
NAS-to-NAS sync	Yes (via Synology Drive and Snapshot Replication)	Yes (Basic NAS-to-NAS sync)
Plex Media Server	Yes (App available in Synology Package Center)	No Plex or multimedia server support
Built-in AI Tools	Synology Photos (AI-powered photo management)	No AI-powered tools

Synology NAS H/W vs UniFi UNAS Pro – Hardware and Storage Expandability

Hardware and storage expandability is a critical factor for users looking to invest in a NAS system, especially for businesses or power users who expect their storage needs to grow over time. In this area, Synology excels, providing a broad range of options that allow users to easily expand their storage capacity and enhance system performance. On the other hand, UniFi’s UNAS Pro offers more limited expandability, focusing instead on offering a compact, all-in-one solution without much room for future upgrades.

Synology NAS systems are designed with scalability in mind. Many of their models, especially in the DS and RS series, allow for storage expansion via external expansion units. For example, the Synology DX517 expansion unit can add up to 5 additional drive bays to models like the DS920+, increasing the total number of drives and overall storage capacity. Similarly, Synology’s rackmount NAS solutions like the RS1221+ can connect to RX418 expansion units, enabling businesses to significantly increase their storage capacity as their data needs grow.

Additionally, Synology’s rackmount models often come with PCIe slots, allowing users to add features such as 10GbE networking, SSD caching, or even NVMe drives for high-speed storage pools. This level of hardware flexibility means that Synology systems can grow alongside a business’s needs, offering features that improve performance and expand storage without requiring a completely new system. For users seeking to maximize performance, Synology also offers support for SSD caching, which can greatly improve read and write speeds by using NVMe SSDs or SATA SSDs to cache frequently accessed data. Models like the DS1621xs+ support dual NVMe M.2 slots for SSD caching, giving users the ability to enhance performance even further without sacrificing drive bays for traditional hard drives.

Beyond the hardware expandability, Synology’s storage management features are equally powerful. Synology’s Hybrid RAID (SHR) technology allows users to mix and match drive sizes, making it easy to upgrade individual drives over time without losing data. SHR automatically optimizes storage space and provides RAID-like redundancy, ensuring data is protected even if drives fail.

In contrast, the UniFi UNAS Pro is designed as a more compact, self-contained unit. The 7-bay capacity offers a solid amount of storage from the outset, especially for SMBs and home users. However, the expandability options are much more limited when compared to Synology. For instance, the UNAS Pro does not support external expansion units, meaning that users are confined to the 7-bay configuration from the start.

Moreover, the UNAS Pro lacks PCIe slots or NVMe support, limiting its ability to be upgraded with features like 10GbE or SSD caching. This is particularly noticeable when comparing the UNAS Pro to Synology models that allow for these kinds of hardware upgrades. While 10GbE is included on the UNAS Pro, its lack of PCIe expandability means users cannot add additional features like dual 10GbE ports or SSD caching to further improve performance. Another limitation of the UNAS Pro is the inability to upgrade the RAM. While 8GB of DDR4 RAM is included, this cannot be expanded, which may be a limiting factor for users who want to run more intensive applications or serve multiple users simultaneously. In comparison, many of Synology’s NAS devices, such as the DS1821+, come with expandable memory, allowing users to increase RAM up to 32GB or more depending on the model.

Overall, UniFi’s UNAS Pro offers sufficient storage capacity for most small businesses and home users, but its lack of expandability makes it a less flexible solution for those who anticipate needing more storage or advanced features in the future.

Key Examples of Synology’s Expandable Hardware Features:

• DX517 Expansion Unit: Adds 5 additional bays to compatible DS series NAS devices.
• PCIe Slots: Found in models like the DS1621+, allowing for 10GbE upgrades, SSD caching, and more.
• NVMe Support: NVMe SSD caching is available in devices like the DS1621xs+, improving I/O performance.

HOWEVER, we also need to factor in that Synology has recently been reducing the number of 3rd party HDDs and SSDs that are listed as ‘compatible’ and ‘supported’ on their product advice pages. The majority of 2024/2025 systems now either list ONLY Synology HDD/SSD media (such as the HAT5300, SAT5210, SNV3410, etc) or list only a handful of storage media from established brands such as Seagate and WD (around 15-18 – out of potentially hundreds), despite them being proven to work successfully. UniFi has it’s own range of storage media drives for their UNAS Pro, UDM and UNVR systems, however they also widely support 3rd party drive utilities.

This would not be an issue in the case of Synology if their own branded storage media was the same price or superior – but the reality is that Synology storage media IS more expensive and in many cases a better, faster and/or larger drive from Seagate/WD is available at the same and/or lower price. This is less true on the entry NAS class of HDDs (eg Seagate Ironwolf vs Synology HAT3300, with only 2-4% difference), but once you look at higher capacity HDDs and more durable HDDs and SSDs, the price difference is kinda crazy:

Synology promotes their solutions are ‘all on one’ solutions and focus all their development towards a single NAS ecosystem, so focusing support, compatibility and operations towards their own media makes sense in a development sense. However, many first time Synology NAS buyers who are scaling up from smaller solutions or migrating away from SAAS/PAAS/Cloud storage in a big way might be unaware of the media storage policy they seem to be persuing. By no means a dealbreaker for many, but something to be aware of!

Synology vs UniFi ANS – Verdict and Conclusion

Choosing between Synology and UniFi NAS systems comes down to evaluating your specific needs, the level of software and hardware expandability you require, and whether you prioritize a more established ecosystem or tighter integration with your networking infrastructure. Both brands offer compelling NAS solutions, but they target different user bases and excel in distinct areas. For users who prioritize software features, scalability, and a broad range of applications, Synology is the clear winner. With over two decades of experience in the NAS market, Synology has fine-tuned its DSM (DiskStation Manager) software to offer an impressive array of first-party and third-party applications. Whether you’re a home user looking for a media server or a business seeking comprehensive backup solutions, Synology DSM provides an extensive feature set that meets almost any need. The rich support for virtualization, containerized apps, and backup tools makes it a top choice for advanced users and businesses with diverse requirements. Synology’s hardware lineup is also far more diverse, with options that cater to everyone from entry-level users to enterprises. Their hardware is expandable, supporting PCIe slots, NVMe caching, and external expansion units, which makes them suitable for users with growing storage needs or demanding performance requirements. Moreover, Synology’s Hybrid RAID (SHR) and flexible storage management tools are ideal for users who need to easily expand their storage without dealing with complex RAID setups. The downside of Synology, however, is its cost. While its hardware is packed with features, it comes at a higher price point, especially as you move up the product range. Additionally, some users have criticized Synology’s recent push to restrict third-party drive compatibility in newer models, which could be a drawback for users looking for more flexibility in their hardware choices.

UniFi’s UNAS Pro series is a newer player in the NAS field but leverages Ubiquiti’s expertise in networking to provide a product that is tightly integrated with the UniFi ecosystem. If you’re already invested in UniFi’s networking gear, adding a UniFi NAS to your setup can make network management and storage integration much simpler. UniFi’s controller-based system allows users to manage their entire network—including their NAS—from a single dashboard, which is a significant convenience for users in SMB environments. The UNAS OS, while still in its early stages, does an admirable job at nailing down the fundamentals of NAS functionality, such as file storage, snapshots, and backups. However, it currently lacks the depth and range of applications found in Synology DSM. This makes UniFi a better choice for users who are looking for simple storage solutions rather than advanced features like Docker, virtual machines, or third-party multimedia apps. When it comes to hardware expandability, UniFi lags behind Synology. The 7-bay UNAS Pro offers a decent starting point for storage, but the lack of PCIe slots, NVMe support, or external expansion units limits its long-term scalability. Furthermore, the inability to upgrade RAM or add additional 10GbE ports means that UniFi’s NAS might not grow as effectively with your needs over time. However, it does come with built-in 10GbE, which could be a compelling feature for users looking to take advantage of higher network speeds out of the box.

Which NAS Should You Choose?

• If you’re a business or power user who needs a highly customizable, feature-rich NAS with long-term expandability, Synology is likely the better choice. Its DSM software, extensive hardware options, and proven reliability make it a solid investment for users who want full control over their storage and the ability to run advanced applications.
• On the other hand, if you’re already embedded in the UniFi ecosystem and prioritize network integration over advanced NAS features, UniFi’s UNAS Pro may be more appealing. Its ease of use and seamless integration with other UniFi devices make it a great option for SMBs and users who prefer simplicity over extensive customization.

Ultimately, the decision between Synology and UniFi NAS depends on whether you value software flexibility and advanced applications (Synology) or seamless integration and simplicity (UniFi).

PROS	PROS
Rich ecosystem of first- and third-party apps DSM is a highly polished and feature-rich OS Supports expansion units, PCIe slots, NVMe caching Active Backup Suite, Hyper Backup, Time Machine support Docker and Virtual Machine Manager for VMs Supports Plex, Synology Photos, Audio Station A wide range of NAS devices for home users to enterprises Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR) for easier storage upgrades	Drive integration with the entire UniFi ecosystem UNAS OS is simple and intuitive for basic storage needs Built-in 10GbE offers high-speed networking out of the box Supports simple cloud backups via Google Drive Tightly integrated into UniFi Controller for network management Basic media streaming supported via Drive Compact design with 7 bays and minimal footprint Good for small businesses and home offices
CONS	CONS
Higher initial cost, especially for advanced models Third-party drive compatibility becoming more limited Feature-rich software may be overwhelming for some users More features mean a higher learning curve Can take time to fully configure with advanced settings Higher expandability adds to cost Video Station removed, requires third-party apps like Plex 10GbE not standard on many models, many require an upgrade	Lacks advanced software features like Docker and VMs No hardware expandability (no PCIe or NVMe support) Limited to 7 bays, no expansion units available RAM is non-upgradable, limiting future performance Limited third-party app support Lacks SSD caching and other advanced storage features No multimedia management tools beyond basic file sharing Fewer remote access options compared to Synology’s QuickConnect, Tailscale and More
Check Amazon Below for the Latest Synology NAS	Visit the UniFi Store for your UNAS Pro Below

Synology stands out for users seeking a high-performance and highly expandable NAS system with a mature software ecosystem, while UniFi shines in integrated network solutions for those looking for simplicity and efficiency in small business and home office environments.

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UPDATE – The UniFi UNAS Pro NAS is now available and can be found HERE

In the world of Network Attached Storage (NAS), Synology has been a dominant player for over two decades, recognized for its extensive range of products, robust features, and seamless user experience. UniFi, by contrast, is a newcomer in the NAS market, having built a reputation for excellence in networking solutions under the umbrella of Ubiquiti. With the recent release of the UniFi UNAS Pro, the company is entering a highly competitive space dominated by established NAS providers like Synology. This article takes an in-depth look at both Synology’s NAS solutions and UniFi’s first NAS system. It compares the two across key aspects such as price, hardware, software, expandability, and company history, offering insights for both casual users and IT professionals considering which NAS system is right for them.

UniFi UNAS Pro vs Synology NAS – Price

When it comes to pricing, Synology and UniFi are positioned at different ends of the spectrum, catering to a wide variety of users with different needs and budgets.

UniFi‘s UNAS Pro, priced at $499, offers a 7-bay rackmount NAS with 10GbE networking capabilities, making it a highly competitive option, particularly for users already embedded in the UniFi ecosystem. This pricing is aggressive for a rackmount system, as most NAS systems with similar features are priced higher. The UNAS Pro is designed to offer an affordable entry point into the world of NAS for small businesses, IT enthusiasts, or existing UniFi users looking to expand their infrastructure with file storage.

By comparison, Synology offers a wide range of NAS devices, starting with affordable 2-bay home systems and scaling up to high-end rackmount systems designed for large enterprises. For example, the Synology DS923+, which retails around $499, provides a 4-bay desktop solution with expandable 10GbE support and an x86 processor, giving it a slight edge in performance over the UNAS Pro for the same price. However, Synology’s rackmount offerings, such as the RS422+, start at $599 for a 4-bay system, and prices quickly rise for larger models with more features and higher-end hardware.

The price difference between these two brands becomes more apparent as you explore Synology’s higher-end options. Their enterprise-grade NAS systems with features like redundant power supplies, dual controllers, and PCIe expansion slots can cost well over $1,000, whereas UniFi’s UNAS Pro remains a single, relatively fixed offering at the lower end of the price range.

In terms of long-term value, UniFi clearly offers a more affordable entry into the NAS market, particularly for users who already use UniFi’s networking products. However, Synology provides a much broader pricing structure, with options that allow users to scale up based on their growing needs—whether for home, SMB, or enterprise use.

Synology vs UniFi NAS – Hardware / Range / Value for Money

The hardware offered by both Synology and UniFi reflects their differing approaches to the NAS market. UniFi’s UNAS Pro is positioned as an affordable 7-bay rackmount solution, with a focus on simplicity and integration into the broader UniFi ecosystem. The UNAS Pro features a quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 processor, 8GB DDR4 memory, and a 10GbE port with an additional 1GbE port. Its hardware is designed to deliver adequate performance for tasks like file storage, backups, and basic networking, but it lacks advanced features like NVMe SSD support or expandable RAM. This makes it a good fit for users who want reliable storage without the need for heavy processing power or extensive scalability.

Synology, on the other hand, offers an extensive range of hardware, from small 2-bay models for personal use to enterprise-grade solutions. Synology’s systems often feature Intel or AMD processors, expandable RAM, and support for NVMe SSD caching. For example, the Synology DS923+ comes with an AMD Ryzen R1600 processor, expandable RAM, and optional 10GbE support, making it more powerful and flexible than the UNAS Pro for users needing higher performance. Additionally, Synology’s rackmount models like the RS422+ offer robust hardware for business environments, with support for redundant power supplies and PCIe slots for expansion.

Where Synology truly shines is in the variety of hardware it offers, allowing users to select devices that suit their exact needs, whether it’s a small 2-bay NAS for personal backups or a large-scale rackmount NAS for a data-heavy business. Synology’s hardware flexibility ensures that users can start small and scale up over time, adding more storage, faster networking, or additional computing power as needed. The comparison below highlights the differences in hardware between UniFi and 1 Synology NAS at a similar price point (DS923+), and another that is similar in hardware (RS422+:

Verdict on Hardware: While the UNAS Pro provides excellent value for its price, especially with its 7-bay capacity, Synology offers a broader and more flexible range of hardware options. Synology’s systems are better suited for users who need scalability, processing power, and more advanced features like NVMe SSD caching and expandable RAM.

UniFi NAS vs Synolgoy NAS – Software Presentation

The software interface of a NAS system is crucial to its usability, and here, the differences between Synology and UniFi are stark. Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM) is known for its user-friendly, graphical interface that feels similar to using a desktop operating system. DSM provides users with a desktop-like environment, complete with drag-and-drop functionality, customizable wallpapers, and a taskbar for quick access to applications. This layout makes it easy for both novice and experienced users to navigate the system, install applications, manage files, and perform backups. The interface is intuitive, with large icons and a clean, modern design that encourages exploration and productivity.

In contrast, UniFi’s UNAS OS is designed with a more text-based, data-centric approach. Borrowing from UniFi’s successful networking interfaces, the UNAS OS focuses heavily on analytics and system monitoring, making it ideal for users already familiar with UniFi’s ecosystem. The interface provides detailed insights into system performance, file transfer speeds, and network activity, which are displayed in simple, granular dashboards. While it may not have the graphical polish of Synology’s DSM, the UNAS OS excels in presenting network data and providing tools for IT administrators who prioritize system efficiency over aesthetics.

UniFi’s single-pane design keeps all relevant information within reach, but it lacks the app-based approach that Synology users are accustomed to. Synology’s DSM, on the other hand, organizes features into discrete applications, making it easy to jump between tasks like file management, backup scheduling, and multimedia streaming. Below is a table that summarizes the key differences in software presentation between UniFi and Synology at a glance (bigger chart soon, don’t worry!):

Feature	UNAS OS	DSM 7.2
User Interface Style	Text-based, network analytics	Desktop-like, graphical interface
Customization	Minimal	Quite customizable (wallpaper, layout, shortcuts)
Mobile App Support	Limited	Extensive
Third-Party App Store	No	Yes (Synology Package Center)
Storage Interface	Simplified, easy to use	Comparatively Advanced, easy-to-use

Verdict on Software Presentation: Synology’s DSM clearly offers a more engaging and customizable user experience, while UniFi’s UNAS OS focuses on providing a streamlined, efficient interface for users already familiar with the UniFi ecosystem. Users looking for an intuitive, desktop-like experience will prefer DSM, while those focused on networking performance and integration may find the UNAS OS more suitable.

Synology vs UniFi – Software Security

Security is paramount for NAS systems, as they often store sensitive data and operate in environments where external access is necessary. Both UniFi and Synology offer security features, but they take different approaches based on their respective ecosystems.

Synology DSM offers a full suite of security features, including two-factor authentication (2FA), firewall configuration, and behavioral analysis to monitor suspicious activities. DSM allows users to integrate third-party security tools, such as Google Authenticator or OTP services, providing flexibility for businesses that already use external authentication systems. Additionally, DSM includes SSL certificates and IP blocking, ensuring that only trusted users can access the system. Synology also has an inbuilt security scanner that checks the system periodically (ad hoc if you want too) for potential weaknesses in the system configuration,which can be set to a home or business class standard (custom too).

UniFi’s UNAS Pro integrates security measures more closely tied to the broader UniFi ecosystem. 2FA is also available but typically relies on UniFi’s own authentication services, such as the UniFi Identity App. This may be limiting for users who prefer third-party authentication tools. The UNAS OS benefits from UniFi’s enterprise-grade network security tools, such as IP monitoring and network relay services, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the entire network infrastructure. However, its NAS-specific security tools, such as DOS protection and auto-lock, are less extensive than Synology’s.

UniFi’s focus on network-level security makes it ideal for businesses that already use UniFi networking hardware, as the UNAS Pro can integrate seamlessly with UniFi switches and security gateways.

However, Synology’s in-system security tools are more comprehensive, making DSM a better choice for users who prioritize NAS-specific security features. It’s also worth remembering that the majority of remote access security features of the UniFi UNAS Pro are locked into use with he UI.COM / UniFi account system. You cannot use 3rd party 2FA/OTP applications or use 3rd party remote access services like Tailscale or Teamviewer.

That said, BOTH systems provide a regular rotation of security and feature system updates over the years that they will be in operation, so the latest security fixes and improvements that are needed to combat vulnerabilities that appear i nthe wild can be automatically adjusted for. However, UniFi does provide a little something extra with simple modular update control. Synology DOES allow you to install updates on the whole OS and/or individual Apps (or be alerted about them but action when it best suits your needs for a restart), but the UniFi UNAS Pro presents this in a much easier to action single option, that allows for full update control to be more granular for either the OS or the application service(s). It’s no more/less than the synology DSM option, but it is presented a great deal more cleanly.

UniFi NAS OS vs Synology DSM – Software Features

When comparing the software features of Synology and UniFi, it’s clear that Synology has had years to develop a rich, feature-packed operating system, while UniFi‘s UNAS OS is still in its infancy. Synology DSM (DiskStation Manager) is known for its vast ecosystem of first-party and third-party apps, which provide a wide array of functionalities beyond basic file storage.

By contrast, UniFi UNAS OS focuses on core NAS functions, offering fewer features but maintaining tight integration with UniFi’s networking solutions.

Synology DSM is renowned for its wide range of software features that cater to home users, small businesses, and enterprise environments. DSM is designed to be a complete solution, offering robust support for file management, multimedia streaming, backup solutions, virtualization, and containerized applications. There is even support of a 3rd Party App center that can be added in less than a minute to add even further applications and services to your Synology NAS system:

One of the standout features of DSM is its application center, known as the Synology Package Center. Here, users can find hundreds of first-party and third-party apps that can be easily installed to extend the functionality of their NAS. These apps cover a broad spectrum of use cases, including:

• Plex Media Server / Video Station (for now!) / Audio Station / Synology Photos for media streaming to smart TVs and mobile devices.
• Synology Active Backup for High-end license-free backup management across hundreds/thousands of devices
• Hyper Backup to manage domestic backup Operations
• The Office Collaboration Suite for an email manager, user chat facilities, office package and more
• Synology Container Manager / Docker for running containerized applications, which is essential for developers or businesses needing to test software in isolated environments.
• Virtual Machine Manager (VMM), allows users to run multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and DSM Virtual Appliances, on a single NAS.

For businesses, Synology offers Active Backup for Business, a powerful backup solution that supports PCs, physical servers, virtual machines, and even cloud services like Office 365 and Google Workspace. This makes Synology DSM an attractive option for organizations looking for a comprehensive, multi-platform backup solution. DSM also excels in multimedia management. Apps like Synology Photos and Audio Station allow users to organize and access their photos, music, and videos from anywhere. Video Station, though recently phased out in favor of third-party options like Plex, has historically provided an easy-to-use platform for media streaming and management.

For surveillance needs, Synology offers Surveillance Station, which allows users to turn their NAS into a full-fledged NVR (Network Video Recorder), supporting IP cameras from a wide variety of manufacturers. This feature makes Synology NAS systems a compelling choice for businesses or homeowners who need both data storage and security monitoring.

While UniFi UNAS OS lacks the extensive feature set of DSM, it provides essential NAS features for file storage, snapshot management, and backup scheduling. It’s clear that UniFi’s focus is on simplicity and integration with their broader UniFi ecosystem. Drive is the primary app available on UNAS OS, offering basic file storage and sharing capabilities with snapshot and backup support.

Currently, UNAS OS does not support advanced features like Docker, virtual machines, or third-party media server apps such as Plex. This limits its appeal to more advanced users who need the ability to run multiple services or applications from their NAS. However, UniFi’s focus on network-level integration could be seen as a strength for businesses that already use UniFi networking hardware and want a NAS that fits seamlessly into their existing infrastructure.

There’s also potential for future growth. UniFi has a robust history of adding new features to their products post-launch, and it is possible that UNAS OS could see support for containerized applications like Docker or surveillance software such as UniFi Protect in the future. However, currently UniFi has not allowed Protect to be deployable on the UNAS Pro system – however you can use the UNAS Pro as a targetted storage system for your existing UNVR or UDM system. Most of the features of the UniFi UNAS Pro are not presented as ‘applications’ or ‘optional services’, but rather they are backed into the UX of the NAS OS already. Snapshots, Shared Drives, Security management, SMB file/folder management, Encrypted Drives, etc – all of it is in the OS already. That said, it still feels comparatively feature dry vs the Synology NAS pplatform.

I know I seem to be hammering the UniFi’s UNAS OS hard here, but currently it lacks many of the popular/current advanced capabilities that may appeal to users, favouring their simple and integrated experience over a large feature set. For perspective, here is a full list of what is there and what isn’t:

Software / Service	DSM 7.1/7.2/7.2.2	UNAS Pro
Operating System	DiskStation Manager (DSM) 7.x	UniFi OS (UNAS-specific OS layer)
User Interface	Highly polished, desktop-like interface, intuitive	Simplified interface, single-pane dashboard, focused on network metrics
Mobile Apps	DS Finder, DS File, DS Cloud, DS Photo, DS Video, and more	UniFi Mobile App (Drive management, Snapshots, Backups)
Virtualization	Virtual Machine Manager (Supports Windows, Linux, and DSM Virtual Appliance)	No virtualization support
Container Support	Docker via Container Manager	No Docker or container support
Surveillance	Surveillance Station (2 free camera licenses, additional paid licenses)	No support for UniFi Protect (at launch)
Multimedia Streaming	Plex, Synology Photos, Video Station, Audio Station	No multimedia apps (no Plex or streaming apps support)
RAID Support	Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, Basic, JBOD	RAID 1, 5 and 10 (with RAID 6 coming soon after launch)
Snapshot Support	Yes (Btrfs for supported models), Advanced Snapshot Replication	Yes (Snapshots with scheduling and backup options)
Cloud Backup	Synology C2, Amazon S3, Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive	Google Drive (Limited cloud backup options)
Local Backup Solutions	Hyper Backup, Snapshot Replication	Local NAS backups supported (NAS to NAS)
File Synchronization	Synology Drive (Supports syncing with Windows, macOS, and Linux)	SMB, basic file synchronization with mobile app
Backup for PCs	Active Backup for Business (PCs, Servers, VMs, SaaS, NAS, and Cloud)	Basic backup for Windows, no advanced backup suite
Backup for macOS	Time Machine Support	Time Machine support (via SMB)
External Backup	USB and eSATA Backup	No external backup support
Cloud Integration	Synology Cloud Sync (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, etc.)	Google Drive cloud sync only
Security Features	2FA, firewall, SSL certificates, VPN, Active Insight monitoring	2FA, SSL certificates, integration with UniFi Identity for SSO
Encryption	Full-volume encryption, Folder encryption	Full-volume and folder encryption
Multimedia Apps	Synology Photos, Video Station, Audio Station, Plex	No multimedia apps available
Third-Party App Store	Synology Package Center	No third-party app store
Mobile Backup	Synology Drive (For mobile devices)	Basic mobile backup via UniFi Drive
Cloud Sync	C2 Cloud Sync, Dropbox, Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive	Google Drive only
Collaboration Tools	Synology Office (Similar to Google Docs, Excel)	No collaboration tools
Virtualization Backup	Active Backup for Business (VMware, Hyper-V)	No virtualization backup
AI-Powered Apps	Synology Photos (AI-based photo organization)	No AI-powered apps
High Availability (HA)	Synology High Availability (for redundancy)	No high availability features
NAS as VPN Server	Yes (VPN Plus Server, supports PPTP, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec)	Yes (VPN integration with UniFi Gateway and Identity Enterprise)
App Virtualization	Docker, DSM Virtual Appliances	No virtualization or Docker support
Remote Access	QuickConnect (secure remote access without complex configuration)	UniFi cloud access (requires UI.com account)
Cloud Applications	Synology Cloud Station	No cloud applications beyond Google Drive sync
Video Editing	No built-in tools, use third-party apps like Plex	No video editing or AI tools
Remote Replication	Snapshot Replication (Supports replication between NAS devices)	NAS-to-NAS backup and remote replication supported
Multi-Version Backups	Hyper Backup (Supports multi-versioned backups)	Yes (multi-versioned backups via Snapshots)
Email Server	Synology MailPlus	No email server functionality
Web Server	Web Station (Supports hosting multiple websites)	No web server support
Music Streaming	Audio Station, Plex	No music streaming or audio apps
Drive Health Monitoring	Disk Health Monitoring (SMART, regular drive checks)	SMART drive monitoring
Antivirus	Synology Antivirus Essential, third-party apps	No antivirus tools available
PCIe Expansion	Yes (for some models, supports 10GbE cards, M.2 SSD cache cards)	No PCIe expansion options
Thunderbolt Support	No Thunderbolt support	No Thunderbolt support
SSD Caching	Yes (supports NVMe and SATA SSD caching on select models)	No SSD caching
ZFS File System	No (Uses EXT4 or Btrfs on supported models)	No ZFS support, BTRFS
Ransomware Protection	Yes (dedicated security updates, Snapshot Replication)	Yes (Snapshots, network security via UniFi Gateway integration)
Browser-based access	Yes (Full access via web browser, similar to desktop)	Yes (Single-pane UI via web browser)
NAS-to-NAS sync	Yes (via Synology Drive and Snapshot Replication)	Yes (Basic NAS-to-NAS sync)
Plex Media Server	Yes (App available in Synology Package Center)	No Plex or multimedia server support
Built-in AI Tools	Synology Photos (AI-powered photo management)	No AI-powered tools

Synology NAS H/W vs UniFi UNAS Pro – Hardware and Storage Expandability

Hardware and storage expandability is a critical factor for users looking to invest in a NAS system, especially for businesses or power users who expect their storage needs to grow over time. In this area, Synology excels, providing a broad range of options that allow users to easily expand their storage capacity and enhance system performance. On the other hand, UniFi’s UNAS Pro offers more limited expandability, focusing instead on offering a compact, all-in-one solution without much room for future upgrades.

Synology NAS systems are designed with scalability in mind. Many of their models, especially in the DS and RS series, allow for storage expansion via external expansion units. For example, the Synology DX517 expansion unit can add up to 5 additional drive bays to models like the DS920+, increasing the total number of drives and overall storage capacity. Similarly, Synology’s rackmount NAS solutions like the RS1221+ can connect to RX418 expansion units, enabling businesses to significantly increase their storage capacity as their data needs grow.

Additionally, Synology’s rackmount models often come with PCIe slots, allowing users to add features such as 10GbE networking, SSD caching, or even NVMe drives for high-speed storage pools. This level of hardware flexibility means that Synology systems can grow alongside a business’s needs, offering features that improve performance and expand storage without requiring a completely new system. For users seeking to maximize performance, Synology also offers support for SSD caching, which can greatly improve read and write speeds by using NVMe SSDs or SATA SSDs to cache frequently accessed data. Models like the DS1621xs+ support dual NVMe M.2 slots for SSD caching, giving users the ability to enhance performance even further without sacrificing drive bays for traditional hard drives.

Beyond the hardware expandability, Synology’s storage management features are equally powerful. Synology’s Hybrid RAID (SHR) technology allows users to mix and match drive sizes, making it easy to upgrade individual drives over time without losing data. SHR automatically optimizes storage space and provides RAID-like redundancy, ensuring data is protected even if drives fail.

In contrast, the UniFi UNAS Pro is designed as a more compact, self-contained unit. The 7-bay capacity offers a solid amount of storage from the outset, especially for SMBs and home users. However, the expandability options are much more limited when compared to Synology. For instance, the UNAS Pro does not support external expansion units, meaning that users are confined to the 7-bay configuration from the start.

Moreover, the UNAS Pro lacks PCIe slots or NVMe support, limiting its ability to be upgraded with features like 10GbE or SSD caching. This is particularly noticeable when comparing the UNAS Pro to Synology models that allow for these kinds of hardware upgrades. While 10GbE is included on the UNAS Pro, its lack of PCIe expandability means users cannot add additional features like dual 10GbE ports or SSD caching to further improve performance. Another limitation of the UNAS Pro is the inability to upgrade the RAM. While 8GB of DDR4 RAM is included, this cannot be expanded, which may be a limiting factor for users who want to run more intensive applications or serve multiple users simultaneously. In comparison, many of Synology’s NAS devices, such as the DS1821+, come with expandable memory, allowing users to increase RAM up to 32GB or more depending on the model.

Overall, UniFi’s UNAS Pro offers sufficient storage capacity for most small businesses and home users, but its lack of expandability makes it a less flexible solution for those who anticipate needing more storage or advanced features in the future.

Key Examples of Synology’s Expandable Hardware Features:

• DX517 Expansion Unit: Adds 5 additional bays to compatible DS series NAS devices.
• PCIe Slots: Found in models like the DS1621+, allowing for 10GbE upgrades, SSD caching, and more.
• NVMe Support: NVMe SSD caching is available in devices like the DS1621xs+, improving I/O performance.

HOWEVER, we also need to factor in that Synology has recently been reducing the number of 3rd party HDDs and SSDs that are listed as ‘compatible’ and ‘supported’ on their product advice pages. The majority of 2024/2025 systems now either list ONLY Synology HDD/SSD media (such as the HAT5300, SAT5210, SNV3410, etc) or list only a handful of storage media from established brands such as Seagate and WD (around 15-18 – out of potentially hundreds), despite them being proven to work successfully. UniFi has it’s own range of storage media drives for their UNAS Pro, UDM and UNVR systems, however they also widely support 3rd party drive utilities.

This would not be an issue in the case of Synology if their own branded storage media was the same price or superior – but the reality is that Synology storage media IS more expensive and in many cases a better, faster and/or larger drive from Seagate/WD is available at the same and/or lower price. This is less true on the entry NAS class of HDDs (eg Seagate Ironwolf vs Synology HAT3300, with only 2-4% difference), but once you look at higher capacity HDDs and more durable HDDs and SSDs, the price difference is kinda crazy:

Synology promotes their solutions are ‘all on one’ solutions and focus all their development towards a single NAS ecosystem, so focusing support, compatibility and operations towards their own media makes sense in a development sense. However, many first time Synology NAS buyers who are scaling up from smaller solutions or migrating away from SAAS/PAAS/Cloud storage in a big way might be unaware of the media storage policy they seem to be persuing. By no means a dealbreaker for many, but something to be aware of!

Synology vs UniFi ANS – Verdict and Conclusion

Choosing between Synology and UniFi NAS systems comes down to evaluating your specific needs, the level of software and hardware expandability you require, and whether you prioritize a more established ecosystem or tighter integration with your networking infrastructure. Both brands offer compelling NAS solutions, but they target different user bases and excel in distinct areas. For users who prioritize software features, scalability, and a broad range of applications, Synology is the clear winner. With over two decades of experience in the NAS market, Synology has fine-tuned its DSM (DiskStation Manager) software to offer an impressive array of first-party and third-party applications. Whether you’re a home user looking for a media server or a business seeking comprehensive backup solutions, Synology DSM provides an extensive feature set that meets almost any need. The rich support for virtualization, containerized apps, and backup tools makes it a top choice for advanced users and businesses with diverse requirements. Synology’s hardware lineup is also far more diverse, with options that cater to everyone from entry-level users to enterprises. Their hardware is expandable, supporting PCIe slots, NVMe caching, and external expansion units, which makes them suitable for users with growing storage needs or demanding performance requirements. Moreover, Synology’s Hybrid RAID (SHR) and flexible storage management tools are ideal for users who need to easily expand their storage without dealing with complex RAID setups. The downside of Synology, however, is its cost. While its hardware is packed with features, it comes at a higher price point, especially as you move up the product range. Additionally, some users have criticized Synology’s recent push to restrict third-party drive compatibility in newer models, which could be a drawback for users looking for more flexibility in their hardware choices.

UniFi’s UNAS Pro series is a newer player in the NAS field but leverages Ubiquiti’s expertise in networking to provide a product that is tightly integrated with the UniFi ecosystem. If you’re already invested in UniFi’s networking gear, adding a UniFi NAS to your setup can make network management and storage integration much simpler. UniFi’s controller-based system allows users to manage their entire network—including their NAS—from a single dashboard, which is a significant convenience for users in SMB environments. The UNAS OS, while still in its early stages, does an admirable job at nailing down the fundamentals of NAS functionality, such as file storage, snapshots, and backups. However, it currently lacks the depth and range of applications found in Synology DSM. This makes UniFi a better choice for users who are looking for simple storage solutions rather than advanced features like Docker, virtual machines, or third-party multimedia apps. When it comes to hardware expandability, UniFi lags behind Synology. The 7-bay UNAS Pro offers a decent starting point for storage, but the lack of PCIe slots, NVMe support, or external expansion units limits its long-term scalability. Furthermore, the inability to upgrade RAM or add additional 10GbE ports means that UniFi’s NAS might not grow as effectively with your needs over time. However, it does come with built-in 10GbE, which could be a compelling feature for users looking to take advantage of higher network speeds out of the box.

Which NAS Should You Choose?

• If you’re a business or power user who needs a highly customizable, feature-rich NAS with long-term expandability, Synology is likely the better choice. Its DSM software, extensive hardware options, and proven reliability make it a solid investment for users who want full control over their storage and the ability to run advanced applications.
• On the other hand, if you’re already embedded in the UniFi ecosystem and prioritize network integration over advanced NAS features, UniFi’s UNAS Pro may be more appealing. Its ease of use and seamless integration with other UniFi devices make it a great option for SMBs and users who prefer simplicity over extensive customization.

Ultimately, the decision between Synology and UniFi NAS depends on whether you value software flexibility and advanced applications (Synology) or seamless integration and simplicity (UniFi).

PROS	PROS
Rich ecosystem of first- and third-party apps DSM is a highly polished and feature-rich OS Supports expansion units, PCIe slots, NVMe caching Active Backup Suite, Hyper Backup, Time Machine support Docker and Virtual Machine Manager for VMs Supports Plex, Synology Photos, Audio Station A wide range of NAS devices for home users to enterprises Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR) for easier storage upgrades	Drive integration with the entire UniFi ecosystem UNAS OS is simple and intuitive for basic storage needs Built-in 10GbE offers high-speed networking out of the box Supports simple cloud backups via Google Drive Tightly integrated into UniFi Controller for network management Basic media streaming supported via Drive Compact design with 7 bays and minimal footprint Good for small businesses and home offices
CONS	CONS
Higher initial cost, especially for advanced models Third-party drive compatibility becoming more limited Feature-rich software may be overwhelming for some users More features mean a higher learning curve Can take time to fully configure with advanced settings Higher expandability adds to cost Video Station removed, requires third-party apps like Plex 10GbE not standard on many models, many require an upgrade	Lacks advanced software features like Docker and VMs No hardware expandability (no PCIe or NVMe support) Limited to 7 bays, no expansion units available RAM is non-upgradable, limiting future performance Limited third-party app support Lacks SSD caching and other advanced storage features No multimedia management tools beyond basic file sharing Fewer remote access options compared to Synology’s QuickConnect, Tailscale and More
Check Amazon Below for the Latest Synology NAS	Visit the UniFi Store for your UNAS Pro Below

Synology stands out for users seeking a high-performance and highly expandable NAS system with a mature software ecosystem, while UniFi shines in integrated network solutions for those looking for simplicity and efficiency in small business and home office environments.

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UPDATE – The UniFi UNAS Pro NAS is now available and can be found HERE

The UniFi UNAS Pro is Ubiquiti’s first major leap into the NAS (Network Attached Storage) market, building on the success of their networking hardware and ecosystem. This rackmount NAS aims to provide a cost-effective, streamlined option, especially for those who are already invested in the UniFi product ecosystem. But is this device the right choice for your storage needs? In this detailed review, we’ll explore the pros and cons of the UniFi UNAS Pro to help you decide.

Pros of the UniFi UNAS Pro NAS

1. Competitive Pricing

One of the most remarkable selling points of the UniFi UNAS Pro is its price. Retailing at $499, the UNAS Pro offers a 7-bay rackmount NAS, which is significantly more affordable than many competing NAS devices with similar hardware capabilities. For this price, you get a quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 processor, 8GB of DDR4 memory, and a built-in 10GbE networking port alongside a 1GbE port, without the need for additional licenses. In comparison, similar rackmount NAS devices from brands like Synology and QNAP are typically priced closer to $800 or even $1,000. For example, a comparable system like the QNAP TS-832PX often costs around $900 but comes with similar performance in terms of storage and connectivity options. The value proposition is undeniable, especially when you factor in that UniFi’s NAS software comes with no extra costs for features like snapshot management or backups. For small businesses or home users looking for high-capacity storage at a low price, the UniFi UNAS Pro is a solid choice.

2. Ease of Use

Ubiquiti has a long-standing reputation for designing user-friendly products, and the UNAS Pro is no exception. The NAS system comes with an intuitive user interface that’s reminiscent of UniFi’s networking equipment management software, making it easy for existing UniFi users to get up and running quickly. The interface, whether accessed via the web or through UniFi’s mobile app, offers a clean, straightforward experience.

The mobile app, which supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, allows you to monitor and manage the NAS on the go. This functionality is particularly useful for small businesses where IT support might not always be readily available. Additionally, the built-in LCD panel on the front of the device allows for on-the-spot diagnostics and control without needing to access the web interface, offering a more hands-on approach to managing your NAS.

3. Offline Setup Capability

One standout feature of the UniFi UNAS Pro is its ability to be set up and managed offline. Many NAS systems require users to create an online account to access core features or manage the device, but with the UNAS Pro, you can set up local credentials and manage the device without ever needing to connect to the cloud. This means you can retain complete control over your data and avoid sharing anything with external services, which is an attractive option for users who prioritize privacy. Though you will miss out on certain remote access features without a UniFi cloud account, this offline setup capability is ideal for environments where internet access may be unreliable or for users who prefer to keep their storage network air-gapped from the wider web.

Keep in mind however that setting the device up without a UI.com / UniFi account will limit some of the remote access and additional security verification features of the UNAS Pro.

4. Modular Updates

UniFi has implemented a modular update system that makes software maintenance more flexible and customizable. Rather than requiring full system reboots or blanket updates that affect every part of the NAS at once, the UNAS Pro allows users to schedule and manage individual updates for the NAS OS and each of its applications. You can select between stable updates or more cutting-edge early access updates for those who prefer to stay on the forefront of new features. This update system ensures that you can keep critical parts of your system updated while minimizing disruptions to services. For example, you might set security updates to apply immediately while delaying other updates until a convenient time. For a NAS that’s designed to run continuously, this granular control is a valuable feature.

5. Solid Core Features

For its first foray into the NAS market, UniFi has done an excellent job at providing all the core features users expect from a modern NAS. The UNAS Pro excels in basic NAS functionality, such as file storage, folder creation, and permission management. Its a very straight forward system to understand and use, as well as a very responsive GUI (especially for the internal hardware it has being so modest). Whether backing up to another NAS or a cloud service, browsing files/folders on the fly, managing active shares quickly – the process is straightforward and reliable.

RAID support is available out of the box, allowing users to configure their drives for performance, redundancy, or a balance of both. While the hardware might not be top-tier, UniFi has ensured that its software nails down the fundamentals, providing reliable performance for small businesses and home users.

6. 10GbE Connectivity

At this price point, the inclusion of a 10GbE networking port is a significant advantage. Many NAS devices in this price range only include 1GbE or, at best, 2.5GbE networking. The 10GbE port on the UniFi UNAS Pro enables much faster data transfer rates, particularly for users dealing with large file transfers such as video production teams, graphic designers, or those needing to back up multiple systems simultaneously. For small businesses that need faster network throughput without breaking the bank, the UNAS Pro is an excellent option.

7. Seamless UniFi Ecosystem Integration

The UniFi UNAS Pro integrates seamlessly with the broader UniFi product ecosystem. If you’re already using UniFi routers, switches, or access points, the UNAS Pro can be managed alongside these devices through the same UniFi controller interface.

This makes it easy to monitor and manage all your network infrastructure from a single dashboard. For businesses already invested in UniFi, this integration adds significant value and simplifies network management.

8. Very Easy Snapshot and Backup Management

The UNAS Pro’s snapshot management is another highlight. It allows for easy setup and quick recovery of snapshots, making it a powerful tool for backing up and restoring data.

Whether you’re scheduling automatic snapshots or manually backing up your most important files, the system is responsive and reliable. Data can also be backed up to a cloud service like Google Drive, adding flexibility to your data management strategy.

Cons of the UniFi UNAS Pro NAS

1. Modest Hardware Specifications

Despite its many strengths, the UniFi UNAS Pro’s hardware can feel somewhat underwhelming, especially for more demanding users. The device is powered by a quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 processor, which is capable but not nearly as powerful as the Intel or AMD x86 processors found in higher-end NAS devices.

Specification	Details
Brand	UniFi (from Ubiquiti)
Model	UniFi UNAS Professional Rackmount NAS
Dimensions	442.4 x 325 x 43.7 mm (17.4 x 12.8 x 1.7 inches)
Weight	Without Rackmount Brackets: 5.11 kg (11.27 lb)
	With Rackmount Brackets: 5.20 kg (11.46 lb)
Enclosure Characteristics	SGCC Steel
Processor	Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A57 at 1.7 GHz
System Memory	8GB DDR4
On-Board Flash Storage	SPI NOR 32 MB, USB Flash 8 GB
Power Supply	200W Lipet Internal
Max. Power Consumption	160W
Max. Power Budget for Drives	135W
Power Method	(1) Universal AC Input
	(1) RPS DC Input
Power Supply	100-240VAC, 50/60 Hz, 2A
Networking Interfaces	(1) 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ45 Ethernet
	(1) 1/10 Gbps SFP+ Ethernet
Management Interface	Ethernet In-Band Management
ESD/EMP Protection	Air: ±12kV, Contact: ±8kV
Operating Temperature	-5 to 40° C (23 to 104° F)
Operating Humidity	5 – 95% Non-condensing
LED Indicators	System: (1) Power, Blue/White

While the ARM processor is energy-efficient and suitable for basic tasks like file storage, it lacks the muscle required for more demanding workloads like virtualization, media transcoding, or running complex applications.

For users who need to perform CPU-intensive tasks or run multiple concurrent operations, the ARM architecture could be a limiting factor. Although it’s understandable that UniFi opted for ARM to keep costs down, this choice might alienate users looking for a high-performance solution.

2. Limited Expandability

One of the most significant downsides of the UniFi UNAS Pro is its lack of expandability. While the 7-bay design offers substantial storage out of the box, there are no options for expanding the system beyond that. The device lacks PCIe slots for adding features like SSD caching, additional networking interfaces, or other hardware upgrades. Additionally, the 8GB of DDR4 RAM is non-upgradable, which means users are stuck with the default memory capacity—limiting the NAS’s potential to handle more intensive applications or larger numbers of users.

This lack of scalability could be a dealbreaker for businesses or IT professionals who expect their storage needs to grow over time and want a system that can grow with them.

3. Single Storage Pool

Unlike more advanced NAS systems that allow users to create multiple storage pools, the UniFi UNAS Pro is limited to a single storage pool. This limitation could be problematic for users who want to segregate different types of data or use different storage media, such as SSDs for high-speed access and HDDs for bulk storage. While the system does allow for RAID configurations, the lack of flexibility in storage pool management could be a downside for more advanced users who need granular control over their storage environments.

4. No Redundant Power Supply

For businesses that require constant uptime, the lack of a redundant power supply on the UniFi UNAS Pro is a significant shortcoming. While the device does support an external uninterruptible power supply (UPS), it lacks the built-in redundancy that is common in many higher-end NAS systems. Redundant power supplies are critical in ensuring that hardware failures don’t lead to extended downtime. Without this feature, the UNAS Pro may not be suitable for mission-critical environments where uptime is a priority.

5. Lack of UniFi Protect Support

A surprising omission in the UniFi UNAS Pro is its lack of support for UniFi Protect, UniFi’s popular video surveillance platform. UniFi Protect is available on other UniFi hardware such as the Dream Machine and UNVR systems, but it cannot be installed on the UNAS Pro. This is a missed opportunity, especially for users who might want to centralize their storage and surveillance needs on a single device. While future software updates may address this, the current lack of Protect support limits the device’s versatility, particularly for small businesses or homeowners looking to consolidate network and surveillance management.

6. Absence of Popular NAS Apps and Virtualization

Compared to more established NAS solutions like QNAP or Synology, the UniFi UNAS Pro falls short when it comes to app availability. There’s no support for popular applications like Plex or Docker, which limits its utility for users who want to run media servers, manage smart home devices, or deploy containerized applications. This absence is particularly noticeable when compared to NAS solutions from other brands that have built extensive app ecosystems over many years. Additionally, the lack of virtualization support makes the UNAS Pro less appealing for businesses that need to run virtual machines or isolated environments for development and testing. While this might not matter to users looking for simple storage solutions, it’s a glaring omission for power users.

While the UniFi UNAS Pro covers the basics well, it lacks many of the advanced features that have become standard in more mature NAS systems. There’s no support for containerization, virtual environments, or advanced SaaS integrations like Google Workspace or Office 365. These high-end features are often essential for businesses with complex workflows or larger teams. The absence of these capabilities makes the UNAS Pro less competitive for users who need more than basic file storage and backups.

7. Limited OS Client Tools and File Syncing

Although the UNAS Pro offers a web interface and easy-to-use file sharing features, it lacks the more sophisticated client tools available on competing NAS platforms. For instance, Synology Drive and QNAP QSync offer robust client tools that allow users to sync files across multiple devices or manage their NAS more comprehensively from their desktop, without any need to engage with the system dashboard or the NAS GUI itself – with all file synchronization happening in the background whilst they only interact with their native OS file manager. By contrast, the UniFi UNAS Pro’s file syncing tools are fairly limited and although mapping via SMB and similar is possible, there is little to no live sync tools at launch, which could be frustrating for users looking for more advanced file management capabilities. I really think this is something that UniFi will remedy in time, but at least right now, this is absent to the same degree as their new NAS competitors.

Should You Buy the UniFi UNAS Pro NAS?

The UniFi UNAS Pro is a compelling entry into the NAS market, offering excellent value for money, ease of use, and seamless integration with the UniFi ecosystem. For users looking for a simple, reliable NAS solution that can handle basic storage tasks and backups, the UNAS Pro is a great option, particularly at its competitive price point of $499. However, the device’s limitations in hardware scalability, application support, and advanced features mean that it may not be the best choice for power users or businesses with more complex needs – at least at launch. If you’re already invested in UniFi’s ecosystem and only need a NAS for fundamental storage and backups, the UNAS Pro is a solid choice. But for users seeking greater flexibility, more advanced features, or the ability to scale their storage, other NAS systems from QNAP or Synology may be a better fit.

I feel like a bit of a broken record in this review, and I keep repeating the same two words in conjunction with the UniFi UNAS Pro—fundamentals and consistency! It’s pretty clear that UniFi has prioritized the need for this system to perfectly complement their existing UniFi ecosystem and make it a true part of their hardware portfolio. In doing so, it has resulted in them focusing considerably on the fundamental storage requirements of a NAS system and making sure that these are as good as they possibly can be out of the gate. To this end, I would say that UniFi has unquestionably succeeded. The cracks in the surface begin once you start comparing this system with other offerings in the market right now—which is inevitably what users are going to do and have been doing since the first indications of a UniFi NAS system were being rumored. It may seem tremendously unfair to compare the newly released UniFi NAS with solutions from vendors that have had more than 20 years of experience in this field, but for a business that wants to fully detach themselves from the cloud and wants true user-friendly but highly featured control of their network operations, comparison is inevitable! The UniFi UNAS Pro is an excellent choice for users seeking a budget-friendly, easy-to-use NAS solution with solid core features and strong integration into the UniFi ecosystem. However, for those needing more advanced capabilities or future-proof scalability, it may be worth exploring other options in the NAS market.

BUILD QUALITY - 10/10

HARDWARE - 7/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.2

PROS

Nails down the fundamentals of NAS Storage very well
Easy to use GUI and well suited in the UniFi Ecosystem/UX
Complete Offline Use is supported
Use of a UI account is NOT compulsory
Excellently deployed Snapshot Features
10GbE out-the-box
Open HDD Compatibility, but also 1st party options too
Backup and Restoration Options Nailed down perfectly
Very power efficient and CPU/, Memory utilization rarely high
Compact, Quite and well designed chassis
The LCD controls are completely \'different level\' compared to other brands in the market
Promised competitive pricing
FAST deployment (3-5mins tops)
Reactive Storage expandability and easy-to-understand storage failover options
Mobile app deployment is intuitive/fast
Feels stable, secure and reliable at all times
Performance is respectable (considering SATA Bay count and CPU) but also sustained performance is very good
Single screen dashboard is clear and intuitive
Ditto for the native file explorer

CONS

7 Bays is a bit unusual, plus feels like the existing UNVR with different firmware
Additional App installation (eg. \'Protect\') not currently supported. So no container support for 3rd party apps
Network Controls are limited
Works at it\'s best in an existing UniFi managed network, feels a little limited in \'standalone\'
Multiple storage pools not supported (nor is RAID 0)
Lack of Scheduled On/Off
Lack of redundant PSU
Only 1 10Gb port and 1x 1GbE, no USBs for expanded storage or an expansion

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Remember when Synology was only famous for its NAS? Yeah, me neither. Among all the server brands discussed here at NAS Compares, few have created such a diverse portfolio of home and business solutions, covering a wide array of peripherals and accessories, as Synology has. Although their CCTV and security application, Surveillance Station, has been available on their NAS devices for decades, it’s only in the past few years that we’ve seen the brand introduce their own range of surveillance cameras. The new CC400W is the latest addition to their lineup and, although it might look arguably less enterprise-grade compared to the BC500 and TC500 POE high-protection models, the CC400W doesn’t seem to be a slouch either! Targeting indoor use, this multi-surface deployable camera comes with impressively sleek integration with Synology Surveillance Station, no need for a camera license, industry-approved encryption, and wireless connectivity. Indeed, this was the kind of camera I hoped Synology would release in the first phase of their product series launch. Still, better late than never! Today, we’re going to review the new CC400W surveillance camera from Synology NAS and help you decide whether you can trust it with the security of your data and assets!

Note – Video Review Available NOW on YouTube HERE

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Quick Conclusion

The Synology CC400W, when viewed in isolation, stands out as a slightly above-average surveillance camera. It may not be at the cutting edge of technology, but it doesn’t aspire to be. Instead, Synology is focusing on expanding its camera lineup to complement its well-established surveillance NAS platform, aiming to offer robust and seamlessly integrated products rather than chasing the latest trends. The commitment to ensuring compatibility with third-party cameras while expanding its own range, including the CC400W, BC500, and TC500, is a smart move. It appeals to users seeking a unified first-party surveillance solution that minimizes compatibility issues and security vulnerabilities. One of the CC400W’s strengths is its honesty about capabilities, a refreshing approach in a market often dominated by overhyped claims. This camera clearly delineates its role in the surveillance setup, highlighting a balanced workload between the camera and the Synology NAS. This straightforward integration is likely to attract users looking for a hassle-free surveillance solution. The camera’s enhanced security features, compliance with US certifications, and the absence of a requirement for a surveillance camera license further contribute to its appeal as a reliable, if not revolutionary, product designed for long-term use.

However, there are aspects of the CC400W that could be improved. Given its exclusive design for use with Synology systems and services, the absence of an included SD card at its price point is a notable oversight. Additionally, a two-year warranty feels somewhat limited, especially considering the camera’s likely deployment in business settings for five to ten years, exclusively within Synology’s ecosystem. Moreover, there seems to be a gap in understanding among users regarding the camera’s object detection capabilities versus object recognition and analysis—a distinction Synology could clarify more effectively. Despite these drawbacks, for those looking to expand their Synology surveillance setup without the complexities of camera licenses, desiring quick setup and integration under a single brand, the CC400W confidently meets these needs.

SOFTWARE - 10/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 8/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.4

PROS

Fast setup and near seamless integration with Synology NAS hardware
The audio in and out is as clear as a whistle No need for a camera license simplifies everything!
Sturdy and novel mounting base
The wireless connectivity was one of the smoothest setups I have experienced in a surveillance camera
Dedicated disconnection alerts in conjunction with SD card Edge recording works seamlessly!
Remarkably well built, compact yet sturdy.
The AI assisted object recognition (human and vehicle) although not perfect is still well presented and accessible in Surveillance Station
Camera firmware updates are managed by the NAS smoothly.
Significant certification and encryption standards mean unfettered deployment in US businesses

CONS

Surprisingly expensive given the hardware
Lack of an SD card, despite it being a Synology branded product with Synology services that take advantage of the SD card, at this price!
The two-year warranty seems weirdly short given the context of its deployment. Synology could do better in presenting the difference between their AI object cameras and deep video analysis NVRs, to avoid potential user confusion or disappointment.

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Synology CC400W Camera Review – Presentation

Much like the other cameras in Synology’s lineup, the Synology CC400W arrives in a pleasingly aesthetic external package. Considering that 90% of other surveillance cameras on the market, whether for NVR or DVR systems, tend to arrive in plain, brown packaging with little fanfare, Synology deserves a nod here for their continued effort in the presentation of their solutions. The box sides, adorned with specific information relating to the camera’s specifications and capabilities, represent a step above the usual plain, brown, branded box design afforded to other cameras in the market.

Upon opening the retail package, the camera and accessories are all neatly laid out in individual quadrants. As this is a wireless camera, the range of accessories was always expected to be somewhat limited. Nevertheless, everything is presented very well, and each component bears the Synology branding. It also appears that the majority of the packaging materials are fully recyclable.

Alongside the CC400W itself, the camera comes with a remarkably compact PSU. Designed for exceptionally low power consumption, the diminutive five-watt power adapter reflects this. Furthermore, this adapter connects via a USB Type-C interface, meaning you’re not solely reliant on Synology’s own PSU.

The option to purchase much longer USB Type-C extension cables facilitates greater deployment distance from a power outlet. Additionally, with the right arrangement of five-watt external batteries and solar panels, the feasibility of deploying this camera via solar power is clear, as long as a USB-connected battery point is included in the setup.

While Synology doesn’t directly support this, and the CC400W doesn’t come with its own power bank for USB solar panel support, this does highlight the camera’s low power requirement.

The rest of the accessories are quite standard, including warranty information, first-time setup guidance, details on using the wall bracket and fixings, and instructions for attaching the camera. That’s about it, which is perfectly adequate for this kind of camera.

Anything more could have been unnecessary and potentially wasteful. However, I am a bit disappointed that Synology does not include an SD card of any capacity with these cameras at this price point, given the affordability of SD cards and their utility in Surveillance Station.

Additionally, it seems slightly unfair of Synology to only provide this camera with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty when their other cameras come with a 3-year warranty. There’s an argument that those cameras were designed for higher outdoor durability and, with POE support in previous releases, they have fewer potential failure points. However, even though the CC400W isn’t exactly a budget camera, for its price point and intended use, it’s surprising that Synology didn’t offer a three-year warranty as they did with other camera releases. Nonetheless, the Surveillance Station software receives effective lifetime support on Synology NAS systems, so there’s no limitation in terms of security updates and feature enhancements.

Overall, the CC400W presents itself as a quite pleasing and well-packaged kit, a cut above many other supported ONVIF cameras used with Surveillance Station, yet not exactly a game-changer. My concerns regarding the lack of an included SD card and the 2-year warranty aside (considering that the majority of budget cameras barely come with a one-year warranty), I’m satisfied with what I find here. Now, let’s focus on the design of the new CC400W camera.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Design

The Synology CC400W Camera is equipped with a 2.12 mm lens, designed to capture a broad field of view with its 125° horizontal, 72° vertical, and 145° diagonal viewing angles. This wide-angle lens ensures comprehensive coverage of the monitored area, making it ideal for various indoor settings where maximizing the field of view is essential for effective surveillance. The lens’s design aims to provide clear and detailed images across a wide area, enhancing the camera’s utility in security applications.

With an aperture of F2.0, the lens of the Synology CC400W allows for considerable light intake, contributing to the camera’s ability to produce crisp images even in lower light conditions. This feature is particularly beneficial for surveillance in environments with varying lighting, ensuring consistent video quality throughout the day and into the night. The effective aperture supports the camera’s high-resolution HDR video capability, enabling it to capture high-quality footage with balanced exposure in scenes with contrasting light and shadow.

The camera’s lens supports night vision capabilities, utilizing high power infrared LED to illuminate up to 10 meters away. This ensures that the Synology CC400W can provide clear video surveillance in complete darkness, extending its monitoring capabilities to 24/7 operation. The lens, in conjunction with the camera’s infrared capabilities, plays a crucial role in achieving effective night vision, making the CC400W a reliable choice for continuous surveillance needs, regardless of the time of day.

The Synology CC400W Camera not only records live audio as part of its surveillance footage but also allows for the output of custom alarms or direct voice communications through Synology Surveillance Station client services as needed. This functionality is enhanced by an audio sensor that can notify the surveillance setup of noise levels, which can be set permanently or according to a schedule, to preemptively warn of potential intruders. These audio detection alerts, along with physical tampering alerts, add valuable features to the camera’s capabilities, requiring a modern camera for smooth operation. Synology has commendably integrated these services into the camera, reducing reliance on the Synology NAS system to handle all the work.

Underneath a rubber panel at the base of the camera lies a reset button and, more importantly, an SD card slot. While SD card slots are not a novel feature in network cameras, their utility with third-party cameras in Synology’s Surveillance Station is notably limited. However, the SD card slot in the Synology CC400W can be fully utilized for edge recording. This means that in the event of a disconnection from the Synology NAS—due to network failure or system compromise—the camera will continue recording and managing alerts locally on the SD card. Once the connection is restored, it will sync the recordings and alerts back to the NAS. This feature, combined with the Synology C2 cloud recording service, ensures comprehensive protection across various failure scenarios and security threats.

The camera’s base hinge features a 360-degree rotating metal arm, allowing for adjustment across three axes. The base itself is magnetic, simplifying the installation process and significantly easing deployment. Despite its ease of installation and low power consumption, it’s essential to remember this camera still requires a power source, necessitating a USB Type-C outlet or the use of the included five-watt USB PSU. The magnetic base is a notably convenient feature, uncommon in surveillance cameras, and the locking mechanism for the aperture/hinges ensures once positioned, the camera remains securely in place.

The Synology CC400W Camera features an IP65 rating, indicating a high level of protection against dust ingress and water jets, although slightly lower than the BC500 and TC500 models. This rating suggests the camera is not designed for exposure to heavy rain or outdoor elements, emphasizing its suitability for indoor or sheltered outdoor use.

In the realm of government surveillance system installations within the United States, professionals are required to navigate with precision to adhere to specific legal requirements, notably under section 889 of the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This legislation outlines stringent criteria for video surveillance equipment intended for use on U.S. government properties, prohibiting equipment and services from certain companies deemed a national security risk, including Huawei Technologies Company, ZTE Corporation, Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, and Dahua Technology Company. This mandate ensures that only compliant products, which do not incorporate components from these restricted entities, are utilized in sensitive government-related surveillance operations. For security professionals and installers, understanding and adhering to these regulations is crucial when selecting equipment for government projects to ensure legal compliance and maintain national security integrity.

Furthermore, the Trade Agreements Act (TAA) complements the NDAA by enforcing standards for products used in government contracts, requiring them to be produced in the United States or other approved countries. The compliance of security products with both NDAA and TAA is a critical factor for businesses and contractors engaged in federal government projects, signifying that the equipment does not contain components from restricted companies and adheres to trade regulations. The Synology CC400W, with its NDAA and TAA certification, stands as a prime example of a compliant surveillance camera suitable for use in government-related installations. This certification not only ensures adherence to U.S. laws but also positions the CC400W as a viable option for security professionals seeking to fulfill government contracts with confidence in the legality and security of their surveillance technology choices. So, unsurprisingly, the camera’s benefits of NDAA and TAA certification, make it a compliant choice for businesses, especially those dealing with U.S. government contracts. These certifications are crucial in the wake of security concerns and trade disputes, as they ensure the camera meets strict standards required for use in sensitive environments. The CC400W strikes a balance by offering compatibility with Synology’s platform, compliance with important regulatory standards, and moderate affordability for business users.

The design and production quality of the Synology CC400W Camera are commendable. While it’s still a surveillance camera and praise must be relative, it stands out as a compact and easily deployable option for business use. Some might note the absence of an included SD card or a solar panel with an internal battery system as drawbacks, but given its intended use case, these are minor concerns. The focus now shifts to how this camera integrates into your surveillance setup.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Network Connectivity

The Synology CC400W is tailored specifically for integration with Synology NAS systems, eschewing support for use with third-party NVRs or NAS devices. It boasts wireless network connectivity, supporting dual-band Wi-Fi frequencies of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, providing a reliable and sufficient range for camera deployment and the maintenance of stable video streams. While recent trends have introduced Wi-Fi 6 surveillance cameras featuring the 6 GHz band, such enhancements are deemed somewhat superfluous in the surveillance domain, where ensuring ample coverage distance remains the primary objective.

Lacking a physical Ethernet connection, the CC400W might deter users seeking a hybrid deployment approach. However, its integration with Synology software streamlines the setup process. Notably, the camera does not require a Synology surveillance camera license for operation in Surveillance Station, allowing users to conserve the two licenses typically included with most Synology NAS systems. This camera’s compatibility facilitates seamless firmware updates and direct control via the Surveillance Station GUI, simplifying long-term management and maintenance compared to third-party camera solutions.

Deployment of the CC400W requires it to reside within the same local area network as the Synology NAS it is configured to record to. This setup may necessitate adjustments to existing VLAN configurations, especially in environments with scattered wireless access points. The absence of a wired connection option could pose challenges for some setups. Configuration is streamlined through the DS cam mobile app for Android and iOS, which automatically detects the camera within the local network, eliminating the need for manual setup. This ease of integration underscores the camera’s designed compatibility with Synology’s ecosystem, offering a hassle-free addition to existing surveillance systems.

During practical evaluation, the CC400W’s performance was tested using a $10, 10-meter USB-C extension cable to extend power delivery distance, demonstrating the camera’s low power requirements and flexible deployment potential. The camera maintained high-quality video transmission even when placed 8 meters away from the nearest wireless access point, ensuring desired bitrate and framerate consistency. The ability to integrate and manage live feeds, archival footage, and AI-driven alerts within Surveillance Station’s monitoring center highlights the CC400W’s seamless operation and contribution to comprehensive surveillance setups, emphasizing its role within Synology’s networked ecosystem.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Surveillance Station Software Support

Reviewing the Synology CC400W camera without addressing the Synology Surveillance Station software would be incomplete. This camera essentially relies on a Synology NAS and its integrated surveillance software to function. It’s no exaggeration to say that for many, the Surveillance Station software—bundled with every Synology NAS, regardless of size—justifies the entire cost of the system. Offering an enterprise-grade surveillance platform that is both user-friendly and rich in features, Surveillance Station has evolved from a niche add-on to one of Synology’s primary selling points. The software’s accessibility, client support, security, and comprehensive feature set make it a standout, regardless of whether it’s paired with a Synology CC400W camera or a third-party option. To delve into a detailed review of Surveillance Station would significantly extend the length of this article. Fortunately, a comprehensive review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 has been previously conducted, available below, a full review on YouTube. This review covers the wide array of features and benefits offered by this surveillance software when used in conjunction with a Synology camera. The Synology CC400W camera is specifically engineered to provide optimal performance with Synology Surveillance Station, the current version being 9.1.1. The camera’s integration with Surveillance Station offers advanced functionality that outshines the features provided by third-party and non-edge-AI-recognition cameras.

The CC400W camera, when paired with Surveillance Station, supports a plethora of services that transform your security experience. It provides access to live camera feed (monitoring center), which can be scaled to accommodate several cameras on screen simultaneously. You can also view live feeds and previous recordings side-by-side on the software.

Additionally, the Surveillance Station allows for privacy mask and watermark applications on the feed.

It also supports the upload of eMaps and integrates with third-party mapping services like Google Maps and OpenMaps.

Surveillance Station isn’t limited to camera support. It also provides control for IP speakers, door controls, and I/O supported peripherals. Users can access the system swiftly and intuitively via a mobile app, and even use their mobile as another surveillance camera feed with Synology Live Cam. Alerts and push notifications can be scheduled for specific events, and the system generates downloadable analytical reports.

The Surveillance Station further extends its functionality with an array of additional add-ons. These range from YouTube Live Streaming and video integrity tools to transaction checking and IFTTT/Webhook services.

It also offers features like motion detection, missing object detection, idle zone monitoring, and foreign object area tagging. Access to the Surveillance Station is conveniently provided through web browsers, desktop clients, and mobile clients, either over the local network or remotely.

One of the key features is the Smart Lapse creation, which lets you truncate long periods of recording into speedy sequences. For example, you can turn a full day’s footage into a few minutes for quick scanning. It also supports cloud recording with Synology C2 Surveillance (available with a free trial, then on a subscription basis).

The Surveillance Station also offers a Home Mode, which allows automated camera schedules to kick in when a defined user exits or enters the premises using WiFi links. More details on these features can be found in our review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 on our YouTube channel:

The CC400W camera, paired with Surveillance Station, supports sophisticated AI detection techniques like people detection, vehicle detection, intrusion detection, crowd detection, and loitering detection. It also offers a Smart Search feature that lets you search a predefined area of a recorded feed for specific incidents.

Vehicle Detection – Similar to its capability for human detection, the CC400W camera extends its intelligent recognition to vehicles as well. This feature proves particularly useful in situations when the premises are closed, and an unexpected vehicle enters the vicinity. The surveillance system can be programmed to provide ‘out of hours’ alerts, notifying owners whenever vehicles approach their premises during closed or off hours. It’s an excellent way to ensure the security of your property when you’re not physically present.

Intrusion Detection – The CC400W camera takes intrusion detection a notch higher with its advanced features. Users can draw lines on the feed that can have multiple bend or break points, marking out specific areas as off-limits. This allows the system to monitor if people or vehicles cross into these forbidden zones. Thanks to edge AI recognition, you can customize this feature to fit your needs—for example, allowing an area to be entered by people but not vehicles or vice versa. This level of customization helps create ‘no go’ zones at specific times, further enhancing the security of your premises.

Crowd Detection – The CC400W camera’s recognition capabilities extend beyond just humans and vehicles. It also offers nuanced crowd detection. For instance, the system could be programmed to ignore one or two people in a predefined area. However, if that number increases to five or six, it could trigger an alert. This crowd detection feature enables you to set thresholds for alerts based on the number of people in a particular area, ensuring you’re notified only when necessary.

Loitering Detection – Similar to crowd detection, loitering detection is another impressive feature of the CC400W camera. This function enables the camera to alert you when an individual or vehicle remains within a predefined area for an unusually long period. People just passing by won’t trigger an alert, but if they loiter around for a while, the system will notify you. This helps you keep an eye on any potential suspicious activity around your premises.

Smart Search – This feature significantly enhances the surveillance process by allowing you to focus on a specific area within recorded feeds. For instance, you can set the system to alert you of any movement, person, or vehicle in a predetermined spot, such as a door, desk, or window. By combining Smart Search with Smart Time Lapse, you can sift through weeks of recordings in a fraction of the time, automatically identifying any noteworthy events in a particular spot. It allows you to retroactively apply advanced surveillance parameters, even if they weren’t set up at the time of recording.

While the CC400W camera is impressive, it’s important to note that it does not support database storage. It cannot store a reference of specific people or faces and vehicle registrations for future comparison when they appear in the feed, allowing alerts to be scaled accordingly. To access this kind of functionality, a DVA system such as the Synology DVA1622 2-Bay or DVA3221 4 Bay is necessary. Similarly, the CC400W camera cannot keep numerical track of the number of people or objects crossing the set intrusion lines, making it impossible to maintain an accurate count—for instance, knowing who is in or out during a fire alarm. Thus, while the CC400W camera provides a range of advanced features, it has its limitations.

Recordings are sent via HTTPS/SRTP encryption to the NAS, are encrypted when recorded to the local memory card, and remain encrypted when backed up on the Surveillance C2 cloud service. Furthermore, the previously mentioned Synology CC400W camera is NDAA and TAA compliant, which gives it a distinct edge over lower-priced Chinese cameras. In conclusion, while the CC400W Camera does not match up to more expensive Deep Video Analysis systems like the DVA162/DVA3221, its exclusive features and exemption from surveillance licenses make it a compelling choice.

Surveillance Station boasts a vast array of features and services, many of which are either managed by the system itself or utilized in collaboration with the security camera. The integration of AI services with the CC400W camera opens up additional possibilities, although these are somewhat limited when compared to the capabilities unlocked with Synology’s DVA (Deep Video Analysis) NAS units. The CC400W can recognize humans and vehicles, create paths and exclusion zones, and assist in AI-driven searches to accelerate archive retrievals. However, lacking an onboard AI database means it cannot perform more complex AI tasks that require immediate access to an extensive, regularly updated system database—such as people counting, license plate recognition, and facial recognition. These advanced functionalities necessitate a DVA NAS and are crucial to consider when setting up a surveillance system aimed at recognition or identification, as these tasks require different system resources and camera capabilities.

What IS and ISN’T Possible with the Synology Camera AI-Assisted Services?

Now, despite the Synology CC400W, BC500 and TC500 Surveillance Cameras arriving with onboard hardware for AI-powered recognition tasks, it is worth highlighting that using them is NOT the same as using the Deep Video Analysis (DVA) series of NAS servers in Synology’s portfolio. These operations are managed from inside the camera and the alerts are handled and actioned by the NAS after the camera sends the appropriate alert – and these cameras so NOT have the same level of hardware as the DVA1622 and DVA3221 inside each of them! Additionally, whereas the DVA series manages multiple tasks internally from multiple cameras, only using the camera hardware as a life ‘feed’, these cameras cannot run deeper AI tasks that involve counting, internal database management and keeping records of AI referral data internally – they do not have the storage or processing power for that. So more complex people counting and specific facial recognition will not be immediately available to your PLUS series Diskstation, just because you are using the BC500, CC400W and/or TC500. Here is a breakdown of the services available to users with either Synology Cameras or a Synology DVA NAS:

AI Service	Case Use	BC500 & TC500	DVA1622 & DVA3221
People / Vehicle/Loitering Detection	Reduce false alarm and protect against loitering	YES	YES
Crowd Detection	Monitor public safety or quality of service	YES	YES
Intrusion Detection	Protect perimeter and restricted area	YES	YES
Instant Search	Investigate incidents quickly after they happen	YES	NO
People/Vehicle Counting	Calculate occupancy in shops, food courts, or parking lots with aggregated counting of people and vehicles entering and leaving	NO	YES
Face Recognition	Automate personnel identification and prevent unauthorized access	NO	YES
License Plate Recognition	Identify license plates and set up triggers based on configurable allow or block lists	NO	YES

If you are unaware of the Synology Deep Video Analysis NAS system, you can find out more about it in the video reviews of the hardware and software below from our YouTube channel:

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Conclusion

The Synology CC400W, when viewed in isolation, stands out as a slightly above-average surveillance camera. It may not be at the cutting edge of technology, but it doesn’t aspire to be. Instead, Synology is focusing on expanding its camera lineup to complement its well-established surveillance NAS platform, aiming to offer robust and seamlessly integrated products rather than chasing the latest trends. The commitment to ensuring compatibility with third-party cameras while expanding its own range, including the CC400W, BC500, and TC500, is a smart move. It appeals to users seeking a unified first-party surveillance solution that minimizes compatibility issues and security vulnerabilities.

One of the CC400W’s strengths is its honesty about capabilities, a refreshing approach in a market often dominated by overhyped claims. This camera clearly delineates its role in the surveillance setup, highlighting a balanced workload between the camera and the Synology NAS. This straightforward integration is likely to attract users looking for a hassle-free surveillance solution. The camera’s enhanced security features, compliance with US certifications, and the absence of a requirement for a surveillance camera license further contribute to its appeal as a reliable, if not revolutionary, product designed for long-term use.

However, there are aspects of the CC400W that could be improved. Given its exclusive design for use with Synology systems and services, the absence of an included SD card at its price point is a notable oversight. Additionally, a two-year warranty feels somewhat limited, especially considering the camera’s likely deployment in business settings for five to ten years, exclusively within Synology’s ecosystem. Moreover, there seems to be a gap in understanding among users regarding the camera’s object detection capabilities versus object recognition and analysis—a distinction Synology could clarify more effectively. Despite these drawbacks, for those looking to expand their Synology surveillance setup without the complexities of camera licenses, desiring quick setup and integration under a single brand, the CC400W confidently meets these needs.

Synology CC400W PROS	Synology CC400W CONS
Fast setup and near seamless integration with Synology NAS hardware The audio in and out is as clear as a whistle No need for a camera license simplifies everything! Sturdy and novel mounting base The wireless connectivity was one of the smoothest setups I have experienced in a surveillance camera Dedicated disconnection alerts in conjunction with SD card Edge recording works seamlessly! Remarkably well built, compact yet sturdy. The AI assisted object recognition (human and vehicle) although not perfect is still well presented and accessible in Surveillance Station Camera firmware updates are managed by the NAS smoothly. Significant certification and encryption standards mean unfettered deployment in US businesses	Surprisingly expensive given the hardware Lack of an SD card, despite it being a Synology branded product with Synology services that take advantage of the SD card, at this price! The two-year warranty seems weirdly short given the context of its deployment. Synology could do better in presenting the difference between their AI object cameras and deep video analysis NVRs, to avoid potential user confusion or disappointment.

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Remember when Synology was only famous for its NAS? Yeah, me neither. Among all the server brands discussed here at NAS Compares, few have created such a diverse portfolio of home and business solutions, covering a wide array of peripherals and accessories, as Synology has. Although their CCTV and security application, Surveillance Station, has been available on their NAS devices for decades, it’s only in the past few years that we’ve seen the brand introduce their own range of surveillance cameras. The new CC400W is the latest addition to their lineup and, although it might look arguably less enterprise-grade compared to the BC500 and TC500 POE high-protection models, the CC400W doesn’t seem to be a slouch either! Targeting indoor use, this multi-surface deployable camera comes with impressively sleek integration with Synology Surveillance Station, no need for a camera license, industry-approved encryption, and wireless connectivity. Indeed, this was the kind of camera I hoped Synology would release in the first phase of their product series launch. Still, better late than never! Today, we’re going to review the new CC400W surveillance camera from Synology NAS and help you decide whether you can trust it with the security of your data and assets!

Note – Video Review Available NOW on YouTube HERE

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Quick Conclusion

The Synology CC400W, when viewed in isolation, stands out as a slightly above-average surveillance camera. It may not be at the cutting edge of technology, but it doesn’t aspire to be. Instead, Synology is focusing on expanding its camera lineup to complement its well-established surveillance NAS platform, aiming to offer robust and seamlessly integrated products rather than chasing the latest trends. The commitment to ensuring compatibility with third-party cameras while expanding its own range, including the CC400W, BC500, and TC500, is a smart move. It appeals to users seeking a unified first-party surveillance solution that minimizes compatibility issues and security vulnerabilities. One of the CC400W’s strengths is its honesty about capabilities, a refreshing approach in a market often dominated by overhyped claims. This camera clearly delineates its role in the surveillance setup, highlighting a balanced workload between the camera and the Synology NAS. This straightforward integration is likely to attract users looking for a hassle-free surveillance solution. The camera’s enhanced security features, compliance with US certifications, and the absence of a requirement for a surveillance camera license further contribute to its appeal as a reliable, if not revolutionary, product designed for long-term use.

However, there are aspects of the CC400W that could be improved. Given its exclusive design for use with Synology systems and services, the absence of an included SD card at its price point is a notable oversight. Additionally, a two-year warranty feels somewhat limited, especially considering the camera’s likely deployment in business settings for five to ten years, exclusively within Synology’s ecosystem. Moreover, there seems to be a gap in understanding among users regarding the camera’s object detection capabilities versus object recognition and analysis—a distinction Synology could clarify more effectively. Despite these drawbacks, for those looking to expand their Synology surveillance setup without the complexities of camera licenses, desiring quick setup and integration under a single brand, the CC400W confidently meets these needs.

SOFTWARE - 10/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 8/10

VALUE - 8/10

8.4

PROS

Fast setup and near seamless integration with Synology NAS hardware
The audio in and out is as clear as a whistle No need for a camera license simplifies everything!
Sturdy and novel mounting base
The wireless connectivity was one of the smoothest setups I have experienced in a surveillance camera
Dedicated disconnection alerts in conjunction with SD card Edge recording works seamlessly!
Remarkably well built, compact yet sturdy.
The AI assisted object recognition (human and vehicle) although not perfect is still well presented and accessible in Surveillance Station
Camera firmware updates are managed by the NAS smoothly.
Significant certification and encryption standards mean unfettered deployment in US businesses

CONS

Surprisingly expensive given the hardware
Lack of an SD card, despite it being a Synology branded product with Synology services that take advantage of the SD card, at this price!
The two-year warranty seems weirdly short given the context of its deployment. Synology could do better in presenting the difference between their AI object cameras and deep video analysis NVRs, to avoid potential user confusion or disappointment.

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Synology CC400W Camera Review – Presentation

Much like the other cameras in Synology’s lineup, the Synology CC400W arrives in a pleasingly aesthetic external package. Considering that 90% of other surveillance cameras on the market, whether for NVR or DVR systems, tend to arrive in plain, brown packaging with little fanfare, Synology deserves a nod here for their continued effort in the presentation of their solutions. The box sides, adorned with specific information relating to the camera’s specifications and capabilities, represent a step above the usual plain, brown, branded box design afforded to other cameras in the market.

Upon opening the retail package, the camera and accessories are all neatly laid out in individual quadrants. As this is a wireless camera, the range of accessories was always expected to be somewhat limited. Nevertheless, everything is presented very well, and each component bears the Synology branding. It also appears that the majority of the packaging materials are fully recyclable.

Alongside the CC400W itself, the camera comes with a remarkably compact PSU. Designed for exceptionally low power consumption, the diminutive five-watt power adapter reflects this. Furthermore, this adapter connects via a USB Type-C interface, meaning you’re not solely reliant on Synology’s own PSU.

The option to purchase much longer USB Type-C extension cables facilitates greater deployment distance from a power outlet. Additionally, with the right arrangement of five-watt external batteries and solar panels, the feasibility of deploying this camera via solar power is clear, as long as a USB-connected battery point is included in the setup.

While Synology doesn’t directly support this, and the CC400W doesn’t come with its own power bank for USB solar panel support, this does highlight the camera’s low power requirement.

The rest of the accessories are quite standard, including warranty information, first-time setup guidance, details on using the wall bracket and fixings, and instructions for attaching the camera. That’s about it, which is perfectly adequate for this kind of camera.

Anything more could have been unnecessary and potentially wasteful. However, I am a bit disappointed that Synology does not include an SD card of any capacity with these cameras at this price point, given the affordability of SD cards and their utility in Surveillance Station.

Additionally, it seems slightly unfair of Synology to only provide this camera with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty when their other cameras come with a 3-year warranty. There’s an argument that those cameras were designed for higher outdoor durability and, with POE support in previous releases, they have fewer potential failure points. However, even though the CC400W isn’t exactly a budget camera, for its price point and intended use, it’s surprising that Synology didn’t offer a three-year warranty as they did with other camera releases. Nonetheless, the Surveillance Station software receives effective lifetime support on Synology NAS systems, so there’s no limitation in terms of security updates and feature enhancements.

Overall, the CC400W presents itself as a quite pleasing and well-packaged kit, a cut above many other supported ONVIF cameras used with Surveillance Station, yet not exactly a game-changer. My concerns regarding the lack of an included SD card and the 2-year warranty aside (considering that the majority of budget cameras barely come with a one-year warranty), I’m satisfied with what I find here. Now, let’s focus on the design of the new CC400W camera.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Design

The Synology CC400W Camera is equipped with a 2.12 mm lens, designed to capture a broad field of view with its 125° horizontal, 72° vertical, and 145° diagonal viewing angles. This wide-angle lens ensures comprehensive coverage of the monitored area, making it ideal for various indoor settings where maximizing the field of view is essential for effective surveillance. The lens’s design aims to provide clear and detailed images across a wide area, enhancing the camera’s utility in security applications.

With an aperture of F2.0, the lens of the Synology CC400W allows for considerable light intake, contributing to the camera’s ability to produce crisp images even in lower light conditions. This feature is particularly beneficial for surveillance in environments with varying lighting, ensuring consistent video quality throughout the day and into the night. The effective aperture supports the camera’s high-resolution HDR video capability, enabling it to capture high-quality footage with balanced exposure in scenes with contrasting light and shadow.

The camera’s lens supports night vision capabilities, utilizing high power infrared LED to illuminate up to 10 meters away. This ensures that the Synology CC400W can provide clear video surveillance in complete darkness, extending its monitoring capabilities to 24/7 operation. The lens, in conjunction with the camera’s infrared capabilities, plays a crucial role in achieving effective night vision, making the CC400W a reliable choice for continuous surveillance needs, regardless of the time of day.

The Synology CC400W Camera not only records live audio as part of its surveillance footage but also allows for the output of custom alarms or direct voice communications through Synology Surveillance Station client services as needed. This functionality is enhanced by an audio sensor that can notify the surveillance setup of noise levels, which can be set permanently or according to a schedule, to preemptively warn of potential intruders. These audio detection alerts, along with physical tampering alerts, add valuable features to the camera’s capabilities, requiring a modern camera for smooth operation. Synology has commendably integrated these services into the camera, reducing reliance on the Synology NAS system to handle all the work.

Underneath a rubber panel at the base of the camera lies a reset button and, more importantly, an SD card slot. While SD card slots are not a novel feature in network cameras, their utility with third-party cameras in Synology’s Surveillance Station is notably limited. However, the SD card slot in the Synology CC400W can be fully utilized for edge recording. This means that in the event of a disconnection from the Synology NAS—due to network failure or system compromise—the camera will continue recording and managing alerts locally on the SD card. Once the connection is restored, it will sync the recordings and alerts back to the NAS. This feature, combined with the Synology C2 cloud recording service, ensures comprehensive protection across various failure scenarios and security threats.

The camera’s base hinge features a 360-degree rotating metal arm, allowing for adjustment across three axes. The base itself is magnetic, simplifying the installation process and significantly easing deployment. Despite its ease of installation and low power consumption, it’s essential to remember this camera still requires a power source, necessitating a USB Type-C outlet or the use of the included five-watt USB PSU. The magnetic base is a notably convenient feature, uncommon in surveillance cameras, and the locking mechanism for the aperture/hinges ensures once positioned, the camera remains securely in place.

The Synology CC400W Camera features an IP65 rating, indicating a high level of protection against dust ingress and water jets, although slightly lower than the BC500 and TC500 models. This rating suggests the camera is not designed for exposure to heavy rain or outdoor elements, emphasizing its suitability for indoor or sheltered outdoor use.

In the realm of government surveillance system installations within the United States, professionals are required to navigate with precision to adhere to specific legal requirements, notably under section 889 of the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This legislation outlines stringent criteria for video surveillance equipment intended for use on U.S. government properties, prohibiting equipment and services from certain companies deemed a national security risk, including Huawei Technologies Company, ZTE Corporation, Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, and Dahua Technology Company. This mandate ensures that only compliant products, which do not incorporate components from these restricted entities, are utilized in sensitive government-related surveillance operations. For security professionals and installers, understanding and adhering to these regulations is crucial when selecting equipment for government projects to ensure legal compliance and maintain national security integrity.

Furthermore, the Trade Agreements Act (TAA) complements the NDAA by enforcing standards for products used in government contracts, requiring them to be produced in the United States or other approved countries. The compliance of security products with both NDAA and TAA is a critical factor for businesses and contractors engaged in federal government projects, signifying that the equipment does not contain components from restricted companies and adheres to trade regulations. The Synology CC400W, with its NDAA and TAA certification, stands as a prime example of a compliant surveillance camera suitable for use in government-related installations. This certification not only ensures adherence to U.S. laws but also positions the CC400W as a viable option for security professionals seeking to fulfill government contracts with confidence in the legality and security of their surveillance technology choices. So, unsurprisingly, the camera’s benefits of NDAA and TAA certification, make it a compliant choice for businesses, especially those dealing with U.S. government contracts. These certifications are crucial in the wake of security concerns and trade disputes, as they ensure the camera meets strict standards required for use in sensitive environments. The CC400W strikes a balance by offering compatibility with Synology’s platform, compliance with important regulatory standards, and moderate affordability for business users.

The design and production quality of the Synology CC400W Camera are commendable. While it’s still a surveillance camera and praise must be relative, it stands out as a compact and easily deployable option for business use. Some might note the absence of an included SD card or a solar panel with an internal battery system as drawbacks, but given its intended use case, these are minor concerns. The focus now shifts to how this camera integrates into your surveillance setup.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Network Connectivity

The Synology CC400W is tailored specifically for integration with Synology NAS systems, eschewing support for use with third-party NVRs or NAS devices. It boasts wireless network connectivity, supporting dual-band Wi-Fi frequencies of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, providing a reliable and sufficient range for camera deployment and the maintenance of stable video streams. While recent trends have introduced Wi-Fi 6 surveillance cameras featuring the 6 GHz band, such enhancements are deemed somewhat superfluous in the surveillance domain, where ensuring ample coverage distance remains the primary objective.

Lacking a physical Ethernet connection, the CC400W might deter users seeking a hybrid deployment approach. However, its integration with Synology software streamlines the setup process. Notably, the camera does not require a Synology surveillance camera license for operation in Surveillance Station, allowing users to conserve the two licenses typically included with most Synology NAS systems. This camera’s compatibility facilitates seamless firmware updates and direct control via the Surveillance Station GUI, simplifying long-term management and maintenance compared to third-party camera solutions.

Deployment of the CC400W requires it to reside within the same local area network as the Synology NAS it is configured to record to. This setup may necessitate adjustments to existing VLAN configurations, especially in environments with scattered wireless access points. The absence of a wired connection option could pose challenges for some setups. Configuration is streamlined through the DS cam mobile app for Android and iOS, which automatically detects the camera within the local network, eliminating the need for manual setup. This ease of integration underscores the camera’s designed compatibility with Synology’s ecosystem, offering a hassle-free addition to existing surveillance systems.

During practical evaluation, the CC400W’s performance was tested using a $10, 10-meter USB-C extension cable to extend power delivery distance, demonstrating the camera’s low power requirements and flexible deployment potential. The camera maintained high-quality video transmission even when placed 8 meters away from the nearest wireless access point, ensuring desired bitrate and framerate consistency. The ability to integrate and manage live feeds, archival footage, and AI-driven alerts within Surveillance Station’s monitoring center highlights the CC400W’s seamless operation and contribution to comprehensive surveillance setups, emphasizing its role within Synology’s networked ecosystem.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Surveillance Station Software Support

Reviewing the Synology CC400W camera without addressing the Synology Surveillance Station software would be incomplete. This camera essentially relies on a Synology NAS and its integrated surveillance software to function. It’s no exaggeration to say that for many, the Surveillance Station software—bundled with every Synology NAS, regardless of size—justifies the entire cost of the system. Offering an enterprise-grade surveillance platform that is both user-friendly and rich in features, Surveillance Station has evolved from a niche add-on to one of Synology’s primary selling points. The software’s accessibility, client support, security, and comprehensive feature set make it a standout, regardless of whether it’s paired with a Synology CC400W camera or a third-party option. To delve into a detailed review of Surveillance Station would significantly extend the length of this article. Fortunately, a comprehensive review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 has been previously conducted, available below, a full review on YouTube. This review covers the wide array of features and benefits offered by this surveillance software when used in conjunction with a Synology camera. The Synology CC400W camera is specifically engineered to provide optimal performance with Synology Surveillance Station, the current version being 9.1.1. The camera’s integration with Surveillance Station offers advanced functionality that outshines the features provided by third-party and non-edge-AI-recognition cameras.

The CC400W camera, when paired with Surveillance Station, supports a plethora of services that transform your security experience. It provides access to live camera feed (monitoring center), which can be scaled to accommodate several cameras on screen simultaneously. You can also view live feeds and previous recordings side-by-side on the software.

Additionally, the Surveillance Station allows for privacy mask and watermark applications on the feed.

It also supports the upload of eMaps and integrates with third-party mapping services like Google Maps and OpenMaps.

Surveillance Station isn’t limited to camera support. It also provides control for IP speakers, door controls, and I/O supported peripherals. Users can access the system swiftly and intuitively via a mobile app, and even use their mobile as another surveillance camera feed with Synology Live Cam. Alerts and push notifications can be scheduled for specific events, and the system generates downloadable analytical reports.

The Surveillance Station further extends its functionality with an array of additional add-ons. These range from YouTube Live Streaming and video integrity tools to transaction checking and IFTTT/Webhook services.

It also offers features like motion detection, missing object detection, idle zone monitoring, and foreign object area tagging. Access to the Surveillance Station is conveniently provided through web browsers, desktop clients, and mobile clients, either over the local network or remotely.

One of the key features is the Smart Lapse creation, which lets you truncate long periods of recording into speedy sequences. For example, you can turn a full day’s footage into a few minutes for quick scanning. It also supports cloud recording with Synology C2 Surveillance (available with a free trial, then on a subscription basis).

The Surveillance Station also offers a Home Mode, which allows automated camera schedules to kick in when a defined user exits or enters the premises using WiFi links. More details on these features can be found in our review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 on our YouTube channel:

The CC400W camera, paired with Surveillance Station, supports sophisticated AI detection techniques like people detection, vehicle detection, intrusion detection, crowd detection, and loitering detection. It also offers a Smart Search feature that lets you search a predefined area of a recorded feed for specific incidents.

Vehicle Detection – Similar to its capability for human detection, the CC400W camera extends its intelligent recognition to vehicles as well. This feature proves particularly useful in situations when the premises are closed, and an unexpected vehicle enters the vicinity. The surveillance system can be programmed to provide ‘out of hours’ alerts, notifying owners whenever vehicles approach their premises during closed or off hours. It’s an excellent way to ensure the security of your property when you’re not physically present.

Intrusion Detection – The CC400W camera takes intrusion detection a notch higher with its advanced features. Users can draw lines on the feed that can have multiple bend or break points, marking out specific areas as off-limits. This allows the system to monitor if people or vehicles cross into these forbidden zones. Thanks to edge AI recognition, you can customize this feature to fit your needs—for example, allowing an area to be entered by people but not vehicles or vice versa. This level of customization helps create ‘no go’ zones at specific times, further enhancing the security of your premises.

Crowd Detection – The CC400W camera’s recognition capabilities extend beyond just humans and vehicles. It also offers nuanced crowd detection. For instance, the system could be programmed to ignore one or two people in a predefined area. However, if that number increases to five or six, it could trigger an alert. This crowd detection feature enables you to set thresholds for alerts based on the number of people in a particular area, ensuring you’re notified only when necessary.

Loitering Detection – Similar to crowd detection, loitering detection is another impressive feature of the CC400W camera. This function enables the camera to alert you when an individual or vehicle remains within a predefined area for an unusually long period. People just passing by won’t trigger an alert, but if they loiter around for a while, the system will notify you. This helps you keep an eye on any potential suspicious activity around your premises.

Smart Search – This feature significantly enhances the surveillance process by allowing you to focus on a specific area within recorded feeds. For instance, you can set the system to alert you of any movement, person, or vehicle in a predetermined spot, such as a door, desk, or window. By combining Smart Search with Smart Time Lapse, you can sift through weeks of recordings in a fraction of the time, automatically identifying any noteworthy events in a particular spot. It allows you to retroactively apply advanced surveillance parameters, even if they weren’t set up at the time of recording.

While the CC400W camera is impressive, it’s important to note that it does not support database storage. It cannot store a reference of specific people or faces and vehicle registrations for future comparison when they appear in the feed, allowing alerts to be scaled accordingly. To access this kind of functionality, a DVA system such as the Synology DVA1622 2-Bay or DVA3221 4 Bay is necessary. Similarly, the CC400W camera cannot keep numerical track of the number of people or objects crossing the set intrusion lines, making it impossible to maintain an accurate count—for instance, knowing who is in or out during a fire alarm. Thus, while the CC400W camera provides a range of advanced features, it has its limitations.

Recordings are sent via HTTPS/SRTP encryption to the NAS, are encrypted when recorded to the local memory card, and remain encrypted when backed up on the Surveillance C2 cloud service. Furthermore, the previously mentioned Synology CC400W camera is NDAA and TAA compliant, which gives it a distinct edge over lower-priced Chinese cameras. In conclusion, while the CC400W Camera does not match up to more expensive Deep Video Analysis systems like the DVA162/DVA3221, its exclusive features and exemption from surveillance licenses make it a compelling choice.

Surveillance Station boasts a vast array of features and services, many of which are either managed by the system itself or utilized in collaboration with the security camera. The integration of AI services with the CC400W camera opens up additional possibilities, although these are somewhat limited when compared to the capabilities unlocked with Synology’s DVA (Deep Video Analysis) NAS units. The CC400W can recognize humans and vehicles, create paths and exclusion zones, and assist in AI-driven searches to accelerate archive retrievals. However, lacking an onboard AI database means it cannot perform more complex AI tasks that require immediate access to an extensive, regularly updated system database—such as people counting, license plate recognition, and facial recognition. These advanced functionalities necessitate a DVA NAS and are crucial to consider when setting up a surveillance system aimed at recognition or identification, as these tasks require different system resources and camera capabilities.

What IS and ISN’T Possible with the Synology Camera AI-Assisted Services?

Now, despite the Synology CC400W, BC500 and TC500 Surveillance Cameras arriving with onboard hardware for AI-powered recognition tasks, it is worth highlighting that using them is NOT the same as using the Deep Video Analysis (DVA) series of NAS servers in Synology’s portfolio. These operations are managed from inside the camera and the alerts are handled and actioned by the NAS after the camera sends the appropriate alert – and these cameras so NOT have the same level of hardware as the DVA1622 and DVA3221 inside each of them! Additionally, whereas the DVA series manages multiple tasks internally from multiple cameras, only using the camera hardware as a life ‘feed’, these cameras cannot run deeper AI tasks that involve counting, internal database management and keeping records of AI referral data internally – they do not have the storage or processing power for that. So more complex people counting and specific facial recognition will not be immediately available to your PLUS series Diskstation, just because you are using the BC500, CC400W and/or TC500. Here is a breakdown of the services available to users with either Synology Cameras or a Synology DVA NAS:

AI Service	Case Use	BC500 & TC500	DVA1622 & DVA3221
People / Vehicle/Loitering Detection	Reduce false alarm and protect against loitering	YES	YES
Crowd Detection	Monitor public safety or quality of service	YES	YES
Intrusion Detection	Protect perimeter and restricted area	YES	YES
Instant Search	Investigate incidents quickly after they happen	YES	NO
People/Vehicle Counting	Calculate occupancy in shops, food courts, or parking lots with aggregated counting of people and vehicles entering and leaving	NO	YES
Face Recognition	Automate personnel identification and prevent unauthorized access	NO	YES
License Plate Recognition	Identify license plates and set up triggers based on configurable allow or block lists	NO	YES

If you are unaware of the Synology Deep Video Analysis NAS system, you can find out more about it in the video reviews of the hardware and software below from our YouTube channel:

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Conclusion

The Synology CC400W, when viewed in isolation, stands out as a slightly above-average surveillance camera. It may not be at the cutting edge of technology, but it doesn’t aspire to be. Instead, Synology is focusing on expanding its camera lineup to complement its well-established surveillance NAS platform, aiming to offer robust and seamlessly integrated products rather than chasing the latest trends. The commitment to ensuring compatibility with third-party cameras while expanding its own range, including the CC400W, BC500, and TC500, is a smart move. It appeals to users seeking a unified first-party surveillance solution that minimizes compatibility issues and security vulnerabilities.

One of the CC400W’s strengths is its honesty about capabilities, a refreshing approach in a market often dominated by overhyped claims. This camera clearly delineates its role in the surveillance setup, highlighting a balanced workload between the camera and the Synology NAS. This straightforward integration is likely to attract users looking for a hassle-free surveillance solution. The camera’s enhanced security features, compliance with US certifications, and the absence of a requirement for a surveillance camera license further contribute to its appeal as a reliable, if not revolutionary, product designed for long-term use.

However, there are aspects of the CC400W that could be improved. Given its exclusive design for use with Synology systems and services, the absence of an included SD card at its price point is a notable oversight. Additionally, a two-year warranty feels somewhat limited, especially considering the camera’s likely deployment in business settings for five to ten years, exclusively within Synology’s ecosystem. Moreover, there seems to be a gap in understanding among users regarding the camera’s object detection capabilities versus object recognition and analysis—a distinction Synology could clarify more effectively. Despite these drawbacks, for those looking to expand their Synology surveillance setup without the complexities of camera licenses, desiring quick setup and integration under a single brand, the CC400W confidently meets these needs.

Synology CC400W PROS	Synology CC400W CONS
Fast setup and near seamless integration with Synology NAS hardware The audio in and out is as clear as a whistle No need for a camera license simplifies everything! Sturdy and novel mounting base The wireless connectivity was one of the smoothest setups I have experienced in a surveillance camera Dedicated disconnection alerts in conjunction with SD card Edge recording works seamlessly! Remarkably well built, compact yet sturdy. The AI assisted object recognition (human and vehicle) although not perfect is still well presented and accessible in Surveillance Station Camera firmware updates are managed by the NAS smoothly. Significant certification and encryption standards mean unfettered deployment in US businesses	Surprisingly expensive given the hardware Lack of an SD card, despite it being a Synology branded product with Synology services that take advantage of the SD card, at this price! The two-year warranty seems weirdly short given the context of its deployment. Synology could do better in presenting the difference between their AI object cameras and deep video analysis NVRs, to avoid potential user confusion or disappointment.

If you are thinking of buying a Synology NAS, please use the links below as it results in us at NASCompares receiving an affiliate fee from Amazon:

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Should the DS423+ NAS from Synology be your next big tech purchase? With such a wide range of private server solutions on the market, it’s never been a better time to be a NAS buyer, looking to move your data away from a public cloud provider, or even to run them side-by-side as a 2-tier backup solution for your home or business needs! Synology has a tremendously diverse range of NAS solutions, but with the previous generation(s) of solutions in their portfolio now appearing on offer, as well as available at discount at 2nd hand eTailers – does the DS423+ deserve your data? We already made a massive review on the Synology DS423+ NAS HERE, but today I want to hit the Pros and Cons head-on and help you decide much quicker on whether this NAS is for you.

5 Reasons the Synology DS423+ is a Good NAS for You

So, first up, let’s discuss the high points! Here are the five reasons why the Synology DS423+ NAS drive deserves your money and your data!

Note – if you are in a hurry, you can watch my ‘Synology DS423+ – Before You Buy’ video below:

#1 – M.2 NVMe SSD Storage Pool Support

Until the end of 2022 and start of 2023, Synology was pretty rigid on how the M.2 NVMe SSD bays of their NAS could be used. Despite them being one of the first (if not THE first brand) to introduce a turnkey desktop solution with M.2 NVMe SSD bays in conjunction with traditional SATA bays at the SOHO/SMB scale, they limited their use for ONLY caching. Caching does have great benefits, with write caching improving the speed and response from uploading/sent data to the NAS and read caching improving the access and response for connected users to frequently accessed data (arguably mainly I/O and small-scale data that is high in count, but low in volume) – but when users have spent a good chunk of money on M.2 NVMe SSD storage, which is SUBSTANTIALLY faster than traditional HDDs, it’s a real pain for some when you cannot use them for traditional storage pools and volumes! So therefore, it was a welcome surprise that Synology started easing up on this policy in their 2022/2023 releases to allow these bays to be used for storage pools and I am VERY pleased to say that the DS423+ NAS supports this too! Yes, this IS a feature that is available on other NAS systems in their portfolio now AND is it s feature that brands such as QNAP, Asustor and Terramaster have offered for 2-3 years, but it is still great to see it on the DS423+ NAS.

This is particularly surprising, given that the Synology DS423+ is very much a non-enterprise and non-business-focused NAS system. Additionally, the DS423+ NAS bears huge comparison with the DS920+ released in 2020, a HUGELY popular NAS system, which has NOT had M.2 NVMe SSD storage pool services added retroactively – so many users (myself included) would have jsut ASSUMED that the DS423+ would not support this feature. It IS worth highlighting though that the DS423+ CPU uses Gen 2 lanes, only allows pools on Synology NVMe SSDs (SNV3400 / SNV3410), cannot currently use the M.2s for booting DSM and does not have any external connectivity that allows the performance benefits of M.2 NVMes to be realised externally. Still, if you are looking for higher speed storage areas for a VM, Surveillance alerts/recordings, high frequency data bases or just to run the Synology apps themselves in conjunction with data on the slower HDD array, you WILL see benefits!

#2 – Great Performance and Support of Plex, Emby and Jellyfin Media Server

Despite the Synology hardware portfolio in the last year or so slowing moving towards more ‘file server’ and ‘high transfer speed’ processors, the Synology DS423+ NAS is the first release diskstation release from the brand in almost 2 years to arrive with an Intel Integrated graphics processor! Now, WHY is that a big deal for Plex, Emby and Jellyfin media servers? Don’t all the Synology NAS systems play 1080p and 4K media? Well, yes they do! But there is a certain contingent % of users who need their multimedia servers to convert (AKA transcode / encode/decode) their multimedia collection on the fly. In brief, must users have multimedia NAS needs that fall into the following categories:

• They have tonnes of media that they want to ONLY access locally and on powerful media devices that support ALL File formats and/or have client side hardware transcoding supported
• They have tonnes fo media that they ONLY want to access remotely, but have strong internet connections, the client Hardware has the file format/licence support and/or client-side transcoding support (NVidia Shield, Xbox with the HEVC licence enabled)
• They have tonnes of media they want to access locally AND remotely, but some of it needs to be accessed by low-power/resolution devices and/or are on limited internet connections
• They have tonnes of media they want to access locally AND remotely, but the client devices do not support the media formats (e.g. HEVC, M4A, FLAC, etc) and/or do not have client-side hardware transcoding or local license supported (eg Amazon FireTV or Playstation and the hole HEVC limitation in some cases)

For those last two camps, a NAS that features a CPU with integrated graphics is going to be ENOURMOUSLY desireable – which is something I am pleased to say the Synology DS423+ NAS has!

Although the Synology DS423+ NAS is relatively new, I have had extensive experience with the hardware architecture of the DS423+ as it is highly comparable with the DS920+ , DS720+ and even DS420+ that came before it and I can confirm that it will DEFINITELY run Plex, Emby and Jellyfin very well indeed. Both Plex and Emby are available to download from the Synology app center directly (whilst Jellyfin can be installed on a Synology NAS via the unofficial App store – tutorial here) and all three will run very well for home users on the DS423+. There is a 4K test article on Plex on the DS423+ NAS here (as well as the comparison between Jellyfin and Plex + Emby and Plex below).

#3 – Wide Hard Drive and SSD Compatibility

A arguably smaller point here and one that has increased in it’s important lately! Unlike a number of higher profile (i.e more powerful and expensive) NAS systems in the Synology NAS portfolio that have much stricter supported official HDD and SSD compatibility/support, the Synology DS423+ supports pretty much everything you would expect! As long as it is SATA and 2.5/3.5″ – they will almost certainly appear on the Synology compatibility lists. There is still talk of Synology releasing a standard class range of HDDs (to accompany their existing enterprise HDDs and SSD media), but if/when they do, they will likely always allow competitor 3rd party HDDs in the WD Red and Seagate Ironwolf NAS drive series to be used on value series NAS like the DS423+. They DO only support upto 18TB at the time of writing across all supported HDD brands, likely down to Synology’s own drives currently capping at 18TB, but most buyers of the Synology Diskstation PlusNAS systems like this one were far less likely to install HDDs of this scale!

All that said, do keep in mind that the Hard Drives that you choose to use will make an impact on noise. Any NAS HDDs (WD Red or Seagate Ironwolf) of 8TB or lower capacity will be lovely and quiet (only really making noticeable noise in periods of high access frequency), but larger capacity HDDs or enterprise class/industrial built Hard Disks will make more ambient noise (vibration hum, clicks of the internal arm/actuator and spinning disk platters) and these will be easily noisier than the DS423+ noise when in operation.

#4 – Great Chassis Design, Low Noise & Low Impact

As you might expect, the DS423+ Diskstation casing is identical to that of the DS920+ and DS918+ that came before it. This is a particularly well-designed device, both in terms of aesthetic design AND it’s efficient system operation 24×7, with tonnes of ventilation throughout and very structured component distribution. Also, the chassis is a largely plastic external casing in matt black, that contains a much smaller structure on aluminium internally. The result is a NAS that is pretty low noise when in operation (unless you use HDDs larger than around 10TB and/or enterprise-grade 7200RPM disks). That said, one consistent vibe you get in the design of the DS423+ is that direct/physical interaction with the device is kept to a minimum, preferring almost entirely network/internet-based interactivity. Not a huge surprise for a ‘NAS’ of course, but there are a handful of physical attributes that are intentionally absent here. The front of the chassis lacks any kind of LCD display, instead favouring LED indicators. The bulk of the front panel is occupied by the main storage bays and these have alining of ventilation all around them to act as passive airflow.

Passive airflow is definitely a big focus on the design of this chassis, with almost every side of the case featuring ventilation of one sort of around, with the Synology logo being vented. As this system will be in operation 24×7, it is heavily reliant on the rear fans to push air effectively through the system and over the assortment of internal heatsinks as effectively as possible and this chassis does that very well indeed. The Diskstation series at the 2/4 Bay level has always done a great job of melding modern design with necessary system temperature management and the DS423+ is no exception.

#5 – Supports the Whole DSM 7 Catalogue of Applications and runs them well on 2GB Memory

At Launch, the DS423+ NAS arrives with the latest version of Synology software, DSM 7.1. However, this does not stop evolving as soon as you get your Synology NAS. DSM has been in continues to be the dominant force in the world of NAS software, providing a massive arrangement of services, applications (first and third-party supported) and a huge number of client applications for desktop, mobile, Windows, macOS and Linux (as well as a bunch of other more home-based tools). These allow management and access to the data on the DS423+ in very tailored ways, as well as the web browser-based access that has the appearance, intuitive design and responsiveness of a local operating system. The DSM interface can be accessed by hundreds of users at the same time (with each user having tailored access, rights and privileges). DSM is available with ALL Synology NAS and the depth and abilities of DSM on any NAS are dependent on the hardware architecture of the NAS itself. In the case of the Synology DS423+, it supports EVERYTHING that is offered by Synology’s platform. DSM is currently in version 7.1, but it looks like we will be seeing full release of DSM 7.2 at the end of 2022 or the start of 2023, which will be adding WORM (write Once Read Many) support, Volume scale encryption and numerous improvements to individual applications. If you want to learn about it, you can read the DSM 7 Full Review HERE.

As mentioned, the DS423+ supports pretty much the entirety of the DSM 7.1 applications and services (DSM 7 and DSM 6.2 are still in circulation and still receive regular service and security updates, though the DS423+ will arrive with DSM 7.1 by default and cannot be rolled back). If you are an existing user of SaaS and PaaS (Software as a service and Platform as a service) from the likes of Google Workspace and Office 365, knowing that you can synchronize these systems or choose to export away from them onto the Synology services is going to be very appealing. Then there is the increasing development of their 1st party cloud platform, Synology C2, which is slowly integrating into all the applications that are available on your bare metal NAS (allowing you to add a cloud layer of backup, synchronization and access to your data storage setup). This is a subscription platform, which can only be used with your Synology NAS system (as well as connected with some 3rd party SaaS services, but for those that are moving away from Google/Microsoft/AWS for security reasons, but still want a Cloud+Metal storage network in place, C2 covers pretty much everything. Indeed, although below I have highlighted a number of the key/best applications that are included in your DS423+ Service with DSM, most of them can be immediately integrated with Synology C2  (with even more being added in 2023 with DSM 7.2). Key business and consumer applications that are included with your NAS are:

5 Reasons the Synology DS423+ Might NOT Be the NAS for You

Nothing is perfect, right? For all of the positives that I have highlighted above, the DS423+ is still not a perfect Synology NAS solution. Here are five reasons why you might want to give the Synology DS423+ NAS drive a miss, opt for a alternative brand or go for a lower priced predecessor.

#1 – 1GbE by Default and No Means to Upgrade

Let’s get the elephant in the room out of the way early doors! Those ethernet ports. The default model of the DS423+ NAS arrives with two-gigabit ethernet ports (the same as the DS920+, DS918+ and DS916+ before it), despite almost other commercial NAS brand producing solutions at this consumer-tier/scale arriving with at least 2.5GbE. Now, the adoption of greater than gigabit connectivity in client hardware (laptops, PCs, routers, switches, docking stations, etc) is by no means as ubiquitous as 1GbE (which has been around for decades at this point), BUT it is growing. ISPs are providing fiber internet connections globally that exceed gigabit speeds, along with 2.5GbE and WiFi 6 routers. We are seeing more prosumer switches, routers and PCs with default 2.5Gb network ports (at the same/similar cost as 1GbE), $20 USB-to-2.5G adapters and even the affordability of 10GbE on some client devices has allowed users to gradually scale up their hardware environment. The fact the DS423+ arrives at the tail end of 2023 and does not feature greater than 1GbE ports by default is quite damning. Even if you have no plans for 2.5G right now in your setup and think it something of a fad (favouring 10GbE), in terms of future-proofing and the general standard or networking hardware right now, gigabit ethernet is a surprising weakness here. This weakness in network connectivity is further highlighted when you consider that the winter 2022/2023 released DS923+ and DS723+ both arrive with the option to upgrade them to 10GbE with the E10G22-T1-mini adapter from Synology. Not having support of this adapter on the DS423+ feels like a big step back. Maybe with the Gen 2 CPU bottlenecking the bandwidth of the Gen 3×2 adapter too much – but then that begs the question of using the Gen 2 CPU at all! If Synology would hurry up and embrace 2.5GbE or at least sanction USB-to-2.5GbE adapters (hell – release their own branded one!), this would mitigate this somewhat.

#2 – 2GB Memory is fixed and Can Only be Scaled to 6GB

This is only really going to be an issue for those that plan on ramping up their Synology use in the system’s lifespan, but the fact that the DS423+ NAS only arrives with 2GB default memory is a little underwhelming. Now, before I ‘go off on one’, I once again need to reiterate that my issue with the 2GB memory is not exactly the amount – 2GB of DDR4 memory (at 2666Mhz) will run DSM 7.1/7.2 vert well and in my full review I was able to run pretty much all the applications with this memory, thanks to the system having a very intelligent background caching/flushing system in operation. HOWEVER, the 2GB of default memory is fixed to the main internal controller board. Also in this area is the expandable memory bay. (via a SODIMM DDR4 slot – see dismantled NAS image below) Now, again, this is an area of disagreement! The CPU inside the DS423+ has an official support memory maximum of 8GB of DDR4. However, the fixed 2GB prevents this.

This means that you can only officially upgrade the DS423+ via the single SODIMM slot towards 6GB with a single extra 4GB SODIMM module in the available bay. Aside from 6GB being an odd amount, people are most certainly going to make comparisons with the DS920+ having 4GB on Day 1 and 8GB max. Synology does not allow upgrading that memory beyond 6GB in this configuration (so, you cannot work around the 6GB limit by installing a 8GB in the SODIMM slot and hitting 10GB with 8GB+2GB), stating that using the system in an unsupported fashion can lead to weakened/invalidated support by the brand when you need it (as you are using the device in a configuration they did not verify and/or cannot replicate).  This also includes using 3rd party memory, instead of their own branded modules I can partially see their point – they want to run a smooth, reliable and stable platform. Just a shame that Synology Memory modules are a noticeable degree more expensive than alternatives from Crucial and Kingston. Next, we need to discuss the CPU inside the DS423+ NAS – something of a hot point for some.

#3 – The Synology DS423+ Uses a 2019/2020 Generation Intel Celeron

There are two very distinct ways to view the Intel Celeron J4125 CPU inside the DS423+. On the positive side, its a new Synology NAS with a very competent Intel CPU inside, quad-core architecture at 2.0-2.7Ghz clock speed, integrated graphics for demanding server-side processing like multimedia conversions, VMs, thumbnail management and increasing AI ops in Synology/3rd party applications. This is the first ‘Plus’ series release by Synology (i.e Prosumer/full-featured) to feature an Intel Celeron processor since summer 2020 – with everything else since either being efficient ARM processors or Embedded Ryzens without integrated graphics. This CPU does a great job of running synology DSM and will comfortably run a large range of applications, supported users, backups and surveillance cameras at any given time. Finally, there is the fact that till now, the DS4xx+ range has always been a dual-core processor and always lived noticeably in the shadow of the DS9xx+ system in the brand’s portfolio. So, the DS423+ arriving with that quad core Intel Celeron processor is definitely good news! Much like previous Synology NAS systems, the Intel Celeron CPU is located under a single, large, passive heatsink (no active cooling fan), which also means that ambient system noise from system cooling is reduced too. So, why would there be any reason to be unhappy about the DS423+ and it’s CPU choice?

Well (and this is going to get VERY ‘inside baseball’), those that have been following Synology these last few years will know that this is not the first time the J4125 has been used on a Synology Plus series NAS. Indeed, it has appeared several times in previous NAS systems (DS920+, DS720+, DS620slim, DVA1622 and DS1520+) love the last three years. In that time, not only has Intel moved on a couple of times to new cycles of processors (the N5105, N5095, J6415) which provide better power efficiency, PCI gen support and memory caps, but also competitor NAS brands have rolled out 1-2 more generations of hardware with configurations that capitalizes on Intel’s newer Celeron models. Now, it CAN be argued that because Synology have spent so much time and research exploring the capabilities of this processor, that they can get the most out of it for DSM. Equally, Synology has always been very clear that the jewel in their crown (and indeed the main selling point for their systems) is the DSM software and not the hardware. Then there is the fact that ‘at least it’s an Intel integrated graphics CPU, when Synology has been very ‘AMD Emb.Ryzen’ heavy of late! Finally, there is the argument that when the J4125 was featured previously, it was in their fully-featured ‘SMB’ tier – so the DS423+ in their more affordable Home/Prosumer tier is actually scaled up in having this quad-core Celeron processor. There are ALOT of different ways to look at Synology putting the Intel Celeron J4125 in the DS423+ NAS. But I think it would be fair to say that users of the DSx16+ and DS18+ generation that opted to skip the DSX20+ generation to ‘wait and see’, might be a little underwhelmed.

#4 – The Synology DS423+ NAS cannot be Expanded

A small-ish complaint, but the Synology DS423+ NAS lacks the official expandability of the Synology DS923+ and DS920+ via the eSATA connected DX517 JBOD enclosure. The DS420+ NAS before it didn’t have this feature and synology have rarely included expansion support at this tier of their portfolio in both the 2-bay and 4-bay versions (adding it as an incentive towards the DS9xx+ and DS7xx+ series). Still, with data getting bigger, data retention policies/legal-commitments increasing, I think that it is long overdue for Synology to just stop this restriction and add expandability to more of its systems. Many of their competitors have allowed expandability via USB 3.2 (Gen 1 at 5Gb/s and Gen 2 at 10Gb/s) officially supported on even their value tier system, with QNAP, in particular, standing out by offering 2/4/8/16 Bay expansion systems with hardware RAID and JBOD – so the fact the DS423+ NAS cannot allow USB expansion OR add a 6Gb/s eSATA connection for their own system seems like an artificially created restriction.

#5 – Way, WAY too Similar to the DS920+ NAS

There is, of course, the unavoidable way that most long-term Synology users and those looking to upgrade an existing 2016/2018 Diskstation are going to look at the DS423+ – a Synology DS920+ with less memory and no expandability! For those that skipped the DSx20+ generation, the DS423+ is going to feel decidedly underwhelming at best and hugely disappointing at worst! Synology has made no bones that they prioritize their software and services, with hardware being an important but nevertheless secondary concern. The main criticism is that CPU being the same processor used in the 3 years previous generation. Intel has moved production away from the J4125 themselves several times (with most other NAS brands using the N5105 or J6412 right now) and although Synology has been known to move CPU architecture down through the generations previously, this is a particularly egregious example. If they had just scaled something up on this device, such as the network ports from 1GbE to 2.5GbE, add the option of a 10GbE upgrade or more over upgrade the base level memory from 2GB or 4GB, I think people would be less quick to make this unfortunate comparison.

What We Said About the Synology DS423+ NAS in our FULL Review in March 2023

Massive Synology DS423+ Review Article – HERE

YouTube Synology DS423+ Review – HERE

There are two ways we need to look at the Synology DS423+ NAS. In one way, the Synology DS423+ DOES support all of the features and services that users demanded in a fully-featured home/prosumer solution. It features an Intel Quad Core processor with embedded graphics, DDR4 memory, multiple gigabit ports, wide HDD/SSD compatibility and m.2 NVMe SSD support. These are all things popular and most certainly what users would want/expect in a fully featured home/prosumer solution (aka SOHO). Then, when you roll in DSM 7 and it’s enormous range of software and services, the DS423+ is an excellent NAS solution that counters a broad range of criticisms that were leveled at the DS923+ at launch. However, there is, of course, the unavoidable way that most long-term Synology users and those looking to upgrade an existing 2016/2018 Diskstation are going to look at the DS423+ – a Synology DS920+ with less memory and no expandability! For those that skipped the DSx20+ generation, the DS423+ is going to feel decidedly underwhelming at best and hugely disappointing at worst! Synology has made no bones that they prioritize their software and services, with hardware being an important but nevertheless secondary concern. The main criticism is that CPU being the same processor used in the 3 years previous generation. Intel has moved production away from the J4125 themselves several times (with most other NAS brands using the N5105 or J6412 right now) and although Synology has been known to move CPU architecture down through the generations previously, this is a particularly egregious example. If they had just scaled something up on this device, such as the network ports from 1GbE to 2.5GbE, add the option of a 10GbE upgrade or more over upgrade the base level memory from 2GB or 4GB. The Synology DS423+ IS a good NAS system and serves as a great means to enjoy the wide-ranging features of DSM privately or professionally! It just feels like more of a stop-gap system in some places and one that existing DS920+ or DS420+ owners will skip.

SOFTWARE - 10/10

HARDWARE - 7/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 7/10

VALUE - 7/10

7.8

PROS

Synology 4-Bay NAS with a 4-Core Intel Integrated Gfx Processor - Lovely stuff!
Runs Everything in the Synology DSM Catalogue (Active Backup, Surveillance Station, VMM, Drive, Collab Suite, etc)
Great Plex, Emby and Jellyfin Media Server Performance
Supports M.2 NVMe SSD Storage Pools
Broad HDD/SSD Compatibility with Synology drives AND Seagate+WD
Low Impact chassis, low noise in operation (HDD dependant) and efficient power use
Runs exceedingly well on just 2GB of Memory
More affordable than the DS923+ and DS723+
Long-running DSM Support beyond the Hardware 3yr Warranty

CONS

No means to upgrade network connectivity and 1GbE by default
Memory maximum cap at 6GB as original 2GB is fixed (non-upgradable)
Too similar to the DS920+
Non-Expandable
2019/2020 Gen Intel CPU

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For many Synology NAS users, what started as a simple place to dump a whole lot of data gradually turned into something of a complex and strategically layered storage system for all their photos, docs, videos and business storage! Synology NAS and DSM have always provided a range off tools that allowed users to backup the files and folder contents of their NAS to another NAS, a USB drive, to the Cloud and more. HOWEVER, it has only been in the last couple of years that SERIOUS attention has been paid to ‘Whole System‘ and Full NAS Block Level backup‘ – i.e the ability to create a FULL system image, with all files, folders, apps, settings, configuration and precise system layout to be stored as a system image and backed up! Until recently, if you wanted to create a full Synology NAS system DSM image backup, you needed to use the rather enterprise ‘Synology Active Backup’ application. Aside from ABS/Synology-AB being a much more advanced tool to use that might be a touch complex for some, it is also not a tool that is available on ‘all’ synology NAS systems, due to its more aggressive hardware requirements. However, now that full system DSM image backup is now available in Synology Hyper Backup (a tool which is available on many, MANY more NAS systems), then will allow a lot more users to option of a full Synology NAS system backup! In today’s detailed article, I will walk you through how to setup, execute and restore a backup of a Full Synology NAS DSM system image from another NAS, using Hyper Backup. Let’s begin!

What You Will Need to Backup a Synology NAS System Image  to Another with Hyper Backup

Before sinking your teeth into this guide, you just need to check that you have the following elements in place:

• Two Synology NAS that Support Hyper Backup/Hyper Backup Vault
• Synology NAS #1 (Source/PRIMARY) with Synology Hyper Backup 4.1.0-3425 or later
• Synology NAS #2 (Target/DESTINATION) with Synology Hyper Backup Vault 4.1.0-3425 or later
• Both NAS Systems on the same network (i.e connected to the same switch or router)
• More Storage Space on NAS #2 than NAS #1  (The more, the better!)

It is also worth keeping in mind that the Full DSM backup feature of Synology Hyper Backup (and Hyper Backup Vault, by extension) are currently in beta at the time of writing. So, keep this in mind if you choose to proceed with this feature for your Synology NAS setup.

IMPORTANT – You can watch the VIDEO version of this Guide HERE

How to Setup The Backup Destination Synology NAS (2)

It may seen a little odd, but the FIRST THING we need to do is get the setup of your DESTINATION Synology NAS (i.e the NAS that is going to STORE the backups) configured first. This is because we need to have this ready before pointing our primary/host NAS at it. Head over to your 2nd NAS and in the package center, install Hyper Backup Vault 4.1.0-3425 (or later):

Installation will be very quick and it will appear as an available application in the app center and in your start menu quite quickly.

Next, head into the ‘Control Panel‘ and then select ‘Shared Folder‘:

From here, create a new Shared Fodler to store the NAS backup images that you will be sending to this NAS later on. The name doesn’t;t matter, it’s just much more important to separate the DSM images that will be storage from the rest of your storage. I would also recommend putting them in their own volume, but this is optional.

Another optional, but advised config option to consider is to enable ‘WriteOnce’ (a feature only available on Intel/AMD x86 CPU-based NAS). This ensures that the backup images are close to impossible to destroy/change without express admin powers.

WORM / WriteOnce / Write-Once-Read-Many has two modes. Enterprise Mode ensures that ONLY an admin can change/delete this backup. Compliance Mode means NO ONE can change/delete it and you can set a time factor that ensures that unit X time has passed, the contents of this folder may not be changed – i.e your system images! Onnly the writing/adding of new data. Aagin, this is optional, but still remarkably useful for business system image backups.

Once the Shared Folder is created, it will appear as another readily available, network visible folder.

Now we need to switch over to our  MAIN/PRIMARY NAS to start arranging the backup.

How to Prepare and Setup Your Main Synology NAS for a Full Image Backup

On your Main/Primary Synology NAS (1), head into the App center and download Synology Hyper Backup 4.1.0-3425 or later.

Once you have installed the Synology Hyper Backup application, you can open it up and you will be initially greeted by the Backup Wizard (if you have closed this or it simply does not appear, just click the blue ‘Plus’ symbol to bring it up. From here, click on the ‘Entire System‘ option and then click ‘Next‘

A new window will appear that invited you to start entering the information of the 2nd NAS (TARGET/DESTINATION) that you created earlier. If you know the network IP, enter it in the top. If you do not know it immediately, don’t worry…

As you can use the down arrow next to it to search you local area network for any Synology NAS that are available. Just select the Name/I[ of the Target/Destination NAS you are going to send the backups towards.

Next, you can choose whether you want to ensure that files transmitted over the network between each NAS are encrypted or not. This will keep packets of data unusable during transfers, but it will reduce the speed of backups, as it will require encryption/decryptions at either end. Its optional.

The Port of you Synology NAS will be ‘6281’ by default, but if you have set a new one in your system configuration from the destination NAS, put it in the box provided. Then click ‘Log in’, which will then create a new browser window to appear and you will need to enter the login credentials of an account on the Destination/target NAS that  has access to Synology Hyper Backup Vault.

The Hyper Backup app will check the security certificate and if you are using the system in a locally deployed and unchanged setup, it will highlight the status of the self-signed certificate. for locked/local access only, you can larger click through this with Yes.

Next, when the access to the destination NAS is established, you will need to select the destination NAS folder that you want to send backups towards. THIS is why we needed to set up the target/destination (2) NAS up first, so we can see the shared folder we created earlier (i.e DSM Backup, in my case). Select the folder for the backups and then select ‘directory’.

The ‘Directory’ is a sub folder that will contain one or more of your DSM system backup images. You can leave this as default or give it a specific/unique NAS if you plan on backing up multiple Synology NAS images to this from different source NAS’.

Now you have filled all this out, you can go ahead and click ‘next’ to proceed to the next step! This next step allows you to create a timed schedule for WHEN the backups from NAS (1) to NAS (2) take place! I would advice these take place during the night when you sleep (unless you are a night owl!) , as it willfully saturate the network connections of both NAS systems to upload/download the data. You can also add the option to run integrity checks periodically and on ‘in progress’ transfers to ensure the DSM images are healthy.

Next up you have the option to enable Backup rotation. This is an automated system that, if you create regular system DSM image backups, will create a pre-defined amount of them, before overwriting the oldest image with a new one. You can even use semi-automated systems for the system to understand ‘significant’ changes and change the retention policies quite a lot. Set the retention policy for your DSM image backups as best suited to your needs and then click next.

This final window is just to allow you to check your settings are correct before you confirm the NAS (1) TO nas (2) backup routine (not actioning it yet).

When you return to the Hyper Backup window on NAS (1), it will ask you to restart your Synology NAS system to confirm this backup settings. This is because the system needs to ensure the image backup creation settings are correct. Restart the system using the option on screen OR click no, then do anything/everything yo will need the system for, THEN restart.

Restarting will take a few minutes, depending on the power of your system, the number of active processes and scale of your storage.

When the Synology NAS (1) has rebooted (you will hear a beep), you just need to head back into the Hyper backup tool.

How to Action a Synology NAS (#1) Full Image Backup to Another Synology NAS (#2)

On the destination/target NAS (2), the Hyper Backup Vault app will now show that the primary NAS (1) is now connected.

Your new Synology Image backup routine is ready to run on your primary NAS. From here, you can choose to let the schedule you set earlier kick in when it is set for, or just click ‘Back Up Now‘ to start the DSM image backup immediately.

The amount of time the backup will take is HEAVILY dependant on the amount of data that is being backed up and the bandwidth/network connection of your network that these NAS are connected by. Also, the Hyper BAckup DSM image will only take up the amount of storage space of your destination NAS of ‘real data’. So, even if your primary NAS (1) has 12TB of capacity, if it only has 1TB of ACTUAL DATA, it will only take 1TB+space for DSM system data in the backup image.

As you can see in the image below, as the primary/host NAS (1) sends data over, the destination/target NAS (2) is registering it as received. Both NAS can be used normally during this process too!

When the job is complete, you will be able to see that the primary/host NAS (1) is showing the job as complete and the target/destination NAS (2) BOTH SHOW A COMPLETE BACKUP.

And there you go! Backing up a WHOLE system image of DSM from one Synology NAS to another is super easy with Hyper Backup now! Now, let’s go through the process of RESTORING a backup!

How to Restore Your Synology DSM Image NAS Backup

In order to restore a backup of a Synology NAS DSM image, you will need to have the SAME model/storage NAS setup and that NAS will also need Synology Hyper Backup 4.1.0-3425 or later installed. Most likely you will be reusing the same hardware that you already were using, but if you were restring to new hardware, this DSM image will only work with the same hardware you had previously when you created the backup. In the Primary NAS (1), head back into the time circle icon (restore) and a new window will appear:

This new window has several options, but the one you want to look at is ‘Entire System‘ again. Select it and then click ‘next’.

When you this, the system will then prompt you that it will open the ‘Control Panel’ to begin the ‘Restore Process’.

In the Control Panel, the ‘System Recovery’ tab will be selected and a new window will appear that asked you to select the backup/restore method. Select ‘Hyper Backup Vault’, then click ‘ok’.

The system will prompt you again, this time to urge you that it will load into the system restore window.

From here, you will need to add the Network IP of your target/destination NAS (2). There is no drop-down menu this time, so you will need to enter it manually (you can use the Synology Assistant tool to find the IP on the network)

However, before then, you will need to authorize this action. Much like before, you need to enter the login credentials for your target/destination NAS (2) with user details that have access to the DSM IMAGE backup.

After that, the system will show a list of DSM Images (the number of them will depend on your own regularity of backups and rotation). Select the one you wish to use, choose whether you want to reinstate the network settings (ie the system’s original identity on the network, which will be invaluable to reestablish any connected shares and drives you had) and lastly decide if you want the data being sent between NAS (2) and NAS (1) to be encrypted. Once again, encrypted is safer, but slower. The, click Next.

The system then will display a summary of the actions that will take place. You need to check these, then (if you are happy with them), click restore.

Not to take anything to lightly, the NAS will ask you to be SURE that you want to do this, as it will completely format the NAS to the DSM image settings. ANY data actions/creations that took place since this DSM image was created will NOT be kept!

If you still want to reinstate this DSM image backup, go ahead and enter the local NAS (i.e NAS 1) password, then click ‘submit’ to begin the restoration process. BE WARNED, you cannot use the NAS for any other processes during this restoration and depending on the scale of the restoration, it can take many, MANY hours!

If you log into the NAS, or keep the window open, you will be treated with a % completion figure for the DSM restoration.

Which Synology NAS Models Support Hyper Backup DSM Full Image Backups?

Hyper Backup 4.1.0 requires DSM 7.2 and above to run. The entire system backup function is supported in specific models. As of Aug 2023, these are:

FS series: FS6400, FS3600, FS3410, FS3400, FS2500, FS1018

SA series: SA6400, SA3610, SA3600, SA3410, SA3400

23 series: RS2423RP-F, RS2423+, DS1823xs+, DS923+, DS723+, DS423+

22 series: FS822RP+, RS822+, RS422+, DS3622xs+, DS2422+, DS1522+, DVA1622

21 series: FS4021xs+, RS3621xs+, RS3621RPxs, RS2821RP+, RS2421RP+, RS2421+, RS1221RP+, RS1221+, DS1821+, DSLAZY+, DS1621xs+, DS1621+, DVA3221

20 series: RS820RP+, RS820+, DS1520+, DS920+, DS720+, DS620slim, DS420+, DS220+ #

19 series: RS1619xs+, DS2419+II, DS2419+, DS1819+, DS1019+, DVA3219

18 series: RS3618xs, DS2818RP+, RS2418RP+, RS2418+, DS3018xs, DS1618+, DS918+, DS718+, DS418play, DS218+

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For many Synology NAS users, what started as a simple place to dump a whole lot of data gradually turned into something of a complex and strategically layered storage system for all their photos, docs, videos and business storage! Synology NAS and DSM have always provided a range off tools that allowed users to backup the files and folder contents of their NAS to another NAS, a USB drive, to the Cloud and more. HOWEVER, it has only been in the last couple of years that SERIOUS attention has been paid to ‘Whole System‘ and Full NAS Block Level backup‘ – i.e the ability to create a FULL system image, with all files, folders, apps, settings, configuration and precise system layout to be stored as a system image and backed up! Until recently, if you wanted to create a full Synology NAS system DSM image backup, you needed to use the rather enterprise ‘Synology Active Backup’ application. Aside from ABS/Synology-AB being a much more advanced tool to use that might be a touch complex for some, it is also not a tool that is available on ‘all’ synology NAS systems, due to its more aggressive hardware requirements. However, now that full system DSM image backup is now available in Synology Hyper Backup (a tool which is available on many, MANY more NAS systems), then will allow a lot more users to option of a full Synology NAS system backup! In today’s detailed article, I will walk you through how to setup, execute and restore a backup of a Full Synology NAS DSM system image from another NAS, using Hyper Backup. Let’s begin!

What You Will Need to Backup a Synology NAS System Image  to Another with Hyper Backup

Before sinking your teeth into this guide, you just need to check that you have the following elements in place:

• Two Synology NAS that Support Hyper Backup/Hyper Backup Vault
• Synology NAS #1 (Source/PRIMARY) with Synology Hyper Backup 4.1.0-3425 or later
• Synology NAS #2 (Target/DESTINATION) with Synology Hyper Backup Vault 4.1.0-3425 or later
• Both NAS Systems on the same network (i.e connected to the same switch or router)
• More Storage Space on NAS #2 than NAS #1  (The more, the better!)

It is also worth keeping in mind that the Full DSM backup feature of Synology Hyper Backup (and Hyper Backup Vault, by extension) are currently in beta at the time of writing. So, keep this in mind if you choose to proceed with this feature for your Synology NAS setup.

IMPORTANT – You can watch the VIDEO version of this Guide HERE

How to Setup The Backup Destination Synology NAS (2)

It may seen a little odd, but the FIRST THING we need to do is get the setup of your DESTINATION Synology NAS (i.e the NAS that is going to STORE the backups) configured first. This is because we need to have this ready before pointing our primary/host NAS at it. Head over to your 2nd NAS and in the package center, install Hyper Backup Vault 4.1.0-3425 (or later):

Installation will be very quick and it will appear as an available application in the app center and in your start menu quite quickly.

Next, head into the ‘Control Panel‘ and then select ‘Shared Folder‘:

From here, create a new Shared Fodler to store the NAS backup images that you will be sending to this NAS later on. The name doesn’t;t matter, it’s just much more important to separate the DSM images that will be storage from the rest of your storage. I would also recommend putting them in their own volume, but this is optional.

Another optional, but advised config option to consider is to enable ‘WriteOnce’ (a feature only available on Intel/AMD x86 CPU-based NAS). This ensures that the backup images are close to impossible to destroy/change without express admin powers.

WORM / WriteOnce / Write-Once-Read-Many has two modes. Enterprise Mode ensures that ONLY an admin can change/delete this backup. Compliance Mode means NO ONE can change/delete it and you can set a time factor that ensures that unit X time has passed, the contents of this folder may not be changed – i.e your system images! Onnly the writing/adding of new data. Aagin, this is optional, but still remarkably useful for business system image backups.

Once the Shared Folder is created, it will appear as another readily available, network visible folder.

Now we need to switch over to our  MAIN/PRIMARY NAS to start arranging the backup.

How to Prepare and Setup Your Main Synology NAS for a Full Image Backup

On your Main/Primary Synology NAS (1), head into the App center and download Synology Hyper Backup 4.1.0-3425 or later.

Once you have installed the Synology Hyper Backup application, you can open it up and you will be initially greeted by the Backup Wizard (if you have closed this or it simply does not appear, just click the blue ‘Plus’ symbol to bring it up. From here, click on the ‘Entire System‘ option and then click ‘Next‘

A new window will appear that invited you to start entering the information of the 2nd NAS (TARGET/DESTINATION) that you created earlier. If you know the network IP, enter it in the top. If you do not know it immediately, don’t worry…

As you can use the down arrow next to it to search you local area network for any Synology NAS that are available. Just select the Name/I[ of the Target/Destination NAS you are going to send the backups towards.

Next, you can choose whether you want to ensure that files transmitted over the network between each NAS are encrypted or not. This will keep packets of data unusable during transfers, but it will reduce the speed of backups, as it will require encryption/decryptions at either end. Its optional.

The Port of you Synology NAS will be ‘6281’ by default, but if you have set a new one in your system configuration from the destination NAS, put it in the box provided. Then click ‘Log in’, which will then create a new browser window to appear and you will need to enter the login credentials of an account on the Destination/target NAS that  has access to Synology Hyper Backup Vault.

The Hyper Backup app will check the security certificate and if you are using the system in a locally deployed and unchanged setup, it will highlight the status of the self-signed certificate. for locked/local access only, you can larger click through this with Yes.

Next, when the access to the destination NAS is established, you will need to select the destination NAS folder that you want to send backups towards. THIS is why we needed to set up the target/destination (2) NAS up first, so we can see the shared folder we created earlier (i.e DSM Backup, in my case). Select the folder for the backups and then select ‘directory’.

The ‘Directory’ is a sub folder that will contain one or more of your DSM system backup images. You can leave this as default or give it a specific/unique NAS if you plan on backing up multiple Synology NAS images to this from different source NAS’.

Now you have filled all this out, you can go ahead and click ‘next’ to proceed to the next step! This next step allows you to create a timed schedule for WHEN the backups from NAS (1) to NAS (2) take place! I would advice these take place during the night when you sleep (unless you are a night owl!) , as it willfully saturate the network connections of both NAS systems to upload/download the data. You can also add the option to run integrity checks periodically and on ‘in progress’ transfers to ensure the DSM images are healthy.

Next up you have the option to enable Backup rotation. This is an automated system that, if you create regular system DSM image backups, will create a pre-defined amount of them, before overwriting the oldest image with a new one. You can even use semi-automated systems for the system to understand ‘significant’ changes and change the retention policies quite a lot. Set the retention policy for your DSM image backups as best suited to your needs and then click next.

This final window is just to allow you to check your settings are correct before you confirm the NAS (1) TO nas (2) backup routine (not actioning it yet).

When you return to the Hyper Backup window on NAS (1), it will ask you to restart your Synology NAS system to confirm this backup settings. This is because the system needs to ensure the image backup creation settings are correct. Restart the system using the option on screen OR click no, then do anything/everything yo will need the system for, THEN restart.

Restarting will take a few minutes, depending on the power of your system, the number of active processes and scale of your storage.

When the Synology NAS (1) has rebooted (you will hear a beep), you just need to head back into the Hyper backup tool.

How to Action a Synology NAS (#1) Full Image Backup to Another Synology NAS (#2)

On the destination/target NAS (2), the Hyper Backup Vault app will now show that the primary NAS (1) is now connected.

Your new Synology Image backup routine is ready to run on your primary NAS. From here, you can choose to let the schedule you set earlier kick in when it is set for, or just click ‘Back Up Now‘ to start the DSM image backup immediately.

The amount of time the backup will take is HEAVILY dependant on the amount of data that is being backed up and the bandwidth/network connection of your network that these NAS are connected by. Also, the Hyper BAckup DSM image will only take up the amount of storage space of your destination NAS of ‘real data’. So, even if your primary NAS (1) has 12TB of capacity, if it only has 1TB of ACTUAL DATA, it will only take 1TB+space for DSM system data in the backup image.

As you can see in the image below, as the primary/host NAS (1) sends data over, the destination/target NAS (2) is registering it as received. Both NAS can be used normally during this process too!

When the job is complete, you will be able to see that the primary/host NAS (1) is showing the job as complete and the target/destination NAS (2) BOTH SHOW A COMPLETE BACKUP.

And there you go! Backing up a WHOLE system image of DSM from one Synology NAS to another is super easy with Hyper Backup now! Now, let’s go through the process of RESTORING a backup!

How to Restore Your Synology DSM Image NAS Backup

In order to restore a backup of a Synology NAS DSM image, you will need to have the SAME model/storage NAS setup and that NAS will also need Synology Hyper Backup 4.1.0-3425 or later installed. Most likely you will be reusing the same hardware that you already were using, but if you were restring to new hardware, this DSM image will only work with the same hardware you had previously when you created the backup. In the Primary NAS (1), head back into the time circle icon (restore) and a new window will appear:

This new window has several options, but the one you want to look at is ‘Entire System‘ again. Select it and then click ‘next’.

When you this, the system will then prompt you that it will open the ‘Control Panel’ to begin the ‘Restore Process’.

In the Control Panel, the ‘System Recovery’ tab will be selected and a new window will appear that asked you to select the backup/restore method. Select ‘Hyper Backup Vault’, then click ‘ok’.

The system will prompt you again, this time to urge you that it will load into the system restore window.

From here, you will need to add the Network IP of your target/destination NAS (2). There is no drop-down menu this time, so you will need to enter it manually (you can use the Synology Assistant tool to find the IP on the network)

However, before then, you will need to authorize this action. Much like before, you need to enter the login credentials for your target/destination NAS (2) with user details that have access to the DSM IMAGE backup.

After that, the system will show a list of DSM Images (the number of them will depend on your own regularity of backups and rotation). Select the one you wish to use, choose whether you want to reinstate the network settings (ie the system’s original identity on the network, which will be invaluable to reestablish any connected shares and drives you had) and lastly decide if you want the data being sent between NAS (2) and NAS (1) to be encrypted. Once again, encrypted is safer, but slower. The, click Next.

The system then will display a summary of the actions that will take place. You need to check these, then (if you are happy with them), click restore.

Not to take anything to lightly, the NAS will ask you to be SURE that you want to do this, as it will completely format the NAS to the DSM image settings. ANY data actions/creations that took place since this DSM image was created will NOT be kept!

If you still want to reinstate this DSM image backup, go ahead and enter the local NAS (i.e NAS 1) password, then click ‘submit’ to begin the restoration process. BE WARNED, you cannot use the NAS for any other processes during this restoration and depending on the scale of the restoration, it can take many, MANY hours!

If you log into the NAS, or keep the window open, you will be treated with a % completion figure for the DSM restoration.

Which Synology NAS Models Support Hyper Backup DSM Full Image Backups?

Hyper Backup 4.1.0 requires DSM 7.2 and above to run. The entire system backup function is supported in specific models. As of Aug 2023, these are:

FS series: FS6400, FS3600, FS3410, FS3400, FS2500, FS1018

SA series: SA6400, SA3610, SA3600, SA3410, SA3400

23 series: RS2423RP-F, RS2423+, DS1823xs+, DS923+, DS723+, DS423+

22 series: FS822RP+, RS822+, RS422+, DS3622xs+, DS2422+, DS1522+, DVA1622

21 series: FS4021xs+, RS3621xs+, RS3621RPxs, RS2821RP+, RS2421RP+, RS2421+, RS1221RP+, RS1221+, DS1821+, DSLAZY+, DS1621xs+, DS1621+, DVA3221

20 series: RS820RP+, RS820+, DS1520+, DS920+, DS720+, DS620slim, DS420+, DS220+ #

19 series: RS1619xs+, DS2419+II, DS2419+, DS1819+, DS1019+, DVA3219

18 series: RS3618xs, DS2818RP+, RS2418RP+, RS2418+, DS3018xs, DS1618+, DS918+, DS718+, DS418play, DS218+

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If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

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Welcome to our review of the Synology DVA1622 surveillance NAS, a device that stands out from the crowd with its impressive AI-assisted features, yet still runs on the well-known DiskStation Manager (DSM) platform. Synology has made a name for itself in the NAS arena, and their devices are often the first choice for those venturing into home or business network-attached storage. One of Synology’s standout features is the inclusion of its award-winning Surveillance Station NVR/CCTV software, currently at version 9.1, with all its NAS devices.Ho wever, the degree to which you can leverage the Surveillance Station depends heavily on the hardware specifications of your NAS. Here’s where the Synology DVA series, including the DVA3221 and our focus today, the DVA1622, sets itself apart. These devices utilize AI to analyze surveillance camera feeds live, offering features like person, vehicle, face, and license plate recognition, as well as people and vehicle counting, intrusion zone detection, and more. At a price tag of $599, the DVA1622 is about $199 more expensive than the more traditional DSM NAS systems such as the Synology DS720+ and DS723+ 2-Bay. But it offers additional surveillance services and comes with 8 camera licenses, compared to the 2 licenses typically included with other NAS devices. The question we’ll be answering in this review is: does the DVA1622 justify the extra cost with its enhanced surveillance capabilities? Stay tuned to find out.

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

In conclusion, the Synology DVA1622 makes a compelling case for being the best 2-Bay NAS from Synology, despite its price increase over the DS720+ and DS723+. Its ability to run DSM 7.2 on par with its counterparts, while also executing Surveillance Station exceptionally well, sets it apart from the crowd. The added benefits of AI recognition, live AI analysis of recordings, people counting, and intelligent intrusion guidelines are features that can be invaluable to businesses and home users who prioritize their security. Along with these perks, the 8 included surveillance licenses, a significant bump from the 2 that come with other Synology NAS devices, provide excellent value, considering they would cost around $200-250 on their own. The integrated graphics within its CPU offers enhanced multimedia playback capabilities, not only in DSM but also in HEVC recordings in Surveillance Station 9.1. Additionally, the local HDMI/KVM support grants standalone surveillance access, a feature rarely found in other Synology NAS devices. The DVA1622 outclasses the DS720+ by coming with 6GB of memory in its default model, compared to their 2GB. This robust offering, combined with the excellence of Surveillance Station 9.1, one of the world’s best surveillance software, enables the DVA1622 to deliver one of the best experiences of this software. Access to both DSM and Surveillance Station on the DVA1622 equips you with a full suite of NVR/CCTV services, as well as the backup, syncing, sharing, and security capabilities of DSM 7.2. However, the device isn’t without its limitations. It has only two USB ports, which may limit your flexibility for KVM setup with the HDMI and other USB-dependent tasks. Its single 1GbE port could potentially bottleneck your network, especially when running extensive camera setups and other network-heavy tasks. Additionally, the maximum memory of 6GB could hit a ceiling if you are running several services in DSM 7.2, operating 16 cameras, and managing 2 AI tasks simultaneously, considering the CPU supports up to 8GB. The lack of expandability with the Synology DX517 expansion chassis also limits storage potential, with a 2-Bay NAS typically implying a RAID 1 setup and halving the possible maximum storage. Despite these limitations, the DVA1622 stands as an excellent choice for a 2-Bay NAS. It is highly recommended for both surveillance and standard Synology DSM usage. However, it is essential to remember its lack of local connectivity and scalability when compared to the DS723+, which offers 32GB maximum.

SOFTWARE - 10/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 8/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 9/10

8.8

PROS

Runs BOTH Surveillance Station + DSM
All the DVA Task for fraction of DVA3221 Price
Supports Local KVM Standalone Access
8 Camera Licenses Included
No HDD Compatibility Limits
Run VERY Quietly
MASSIVE IP Camera Support List
Easily the \'BEST\' Synology 2-Bay
Surveillance Station 9.1 Is Still BRILLIANT

CONS

Cannot be Expanded
6GB Default/Max Memory is Weird
CPU is a little old
No M.2 NVMe SSD Support
Only 2x AI Tasks at once
Only 1x Network Port (no failover)

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Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Packaging

The retail packaging for this product follows the typical Synology style, characterized by its simplicity and focus on sustainability. The materials used are almost entirely recyclable, reducing the environmental impact of the product’s packaging. The box is clearly labeled, showing exactly what’s inside, and offers comprehensive details about the system’s unique surveillance capabilities, printed on each edge of the box.

The box and internal structure are made just of cardboard, which aligns with Synology’s commitment to eco-friendly practices. However, this material choice, while great for the environment, does mean that the box is somewhat flimsy and may not hold up well under rough handling. But, it’s worth noting that the relatively lightweight nature of the Network Attached Storage (NAS) unit itself means this isn’t a significant problem in most shipping contexts.

This is a rather light NAS, and it’s shipped without any drives installed, so the flimsiness of the box is not much of an issue during shipping, realistically speaking. Despite the somewhat fragile nature of the packaging, the NAS unit should be perfectly secure within the box throughout the shipping process, given its light weight and the protective packing materials used. Therefore, the packaging’s environmental friendliness outweighs any minor concerns about its durability.

Inside the box, you’ll find a familiar assortment of accessories that typically come with any Synology 2 Bay NAS. This includes a 60W PSU, an RJ45 Cable, screws, manuals, information about the 3-year warranty, tray keys, and of course, the DVA1622 NAS unit itself. These components are all essential for setting up and using the DVA1622, ensuring that users have everything they need to get started.

The power supply unit (PSU) is an external 60W brick, which is branded with the Synology logo. This kind of PSU is fairly standard for compact, desktop, 2-bay HDD NAS systems. It’s designed to provide reliable and consistent power to the NAS, ensuring optimal operation and longevity of the unit. As a whole, the retail kit may come across as a bit mundane, but it is nonetheless sturdy and mindful of the environment. More importantly, it includes all the components that most users will need to set up and start using the DVA1622. The only thing missing, as is standard with NAS units, is the storage media which users can choose based on their specific requirements.

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Design

The design of the DVA1622 takes a lot of inspiration from the Synology DS720+ and DS723+ NAS units. These two models are less focused on surveillance but still fall under the category of prosumer 2-Bay NAS solutions. Despite borrowing heavily from these designs, the DVA1622 does feature its own unique elements tailored for its surveillance-oriented functionality.

The outer casing of the DVA1622 is made entirely of plastic, although it does incorporate a metal internal framework for added durability. It measures 166 mm x 106 mm x 223 mm, making it a compact device, and without drives, it weighs just 1.5KG. This combination of dimensions and weight makes the DVA1622 portable and convenient to place in various locations.

The DVA1622 is well-ventilated, featuring vents on nearly all its sides. These vents are strategically placed around the main storage bays, there’s a controller board vent on the base, and even the Synology logo on either side is vented. This level of ventilation, combined with the active rear fan, allows for effective cooling during round-the-clock operation.

This NAS features two storage bays that are designed to be hot-swappable. This allows users to replace or upgrade drives without having to shut down the system, providing seamless operation. The DVA1622 can run either half or fully populated with SATA Hard Drives or SSDs, providing users with a certain degree of flexibility in configuring their storage.

The drive trays utilize a click and load design, meaning no screwdriver is required for installation unless SSDs are used. This design feature simplifies the process of setting up and upgrading drives, making the DVA1622 more user-friendly. Furthermore, it officially supports up to 18TB HDDs from manufacturers like Seagate, WD, Toshiba, and Synology’s own HAT5300 and HAT3300 drives, though testing also showed compatibility with 20TB and 22TB HDDs from WD and Seagate.

One notable omission from the DVA1622’s design is the lack of any M.2 NVMe SSD bays. These bays are typically used for installing faster storage devices for caching or tiered storage. However, the inside of the Synology DVA1622 does have the PCIe connector that usually hosts the m.2 board, as seen in the DS720+/DS723+ models.

At the front of the system, there’s a USB port intended for local backups. This is a convenient feature for users who want to secure their data through physical backups. To make this process easier, the DSM operating system on the NAS provides several apps, like USB Copy and Hyper Backup, that can automatically manage these backups.

Unlike some other models, the DVA1622 doesn’t feature an LCD panel. Instead, it opts for LEDs that indicate the health of the system, drives, and network. These LEDs can be dimmed or deactivated as needed, offering users the ability to customize the system’s visual alerts based on their preferences.

The external design of the DVA1622 largely mirrors that of the DS720+/DS723+. The similarities in design language are evident, with differences mainly lying in the specific features each model offers. To understand the real differences between the DVA1622 and the DS720+/DS723+, it’s necessary to look at the ports, which also account for the approximate $199 price difference between the models.

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Ports and Connections

The DVA1622’s ports present a mix of positive and negative aspects, especially when compared with other 2-Bay NAS models in the market. There are numerous ports to accommodate various needs, but some users may find certain aspects lacking. Despite this, it provides a satisfactory range of connectivity options for the average user.

Like other models, the DVA1622 has the same single 80mm rear fan. This fan’s RPM automatically adjusts according to the system’s temperature requirements, which aids in maintaining optimal operating conditions. If necessary, users also have the option to manually adjust the fan’s speed.

The system only features a single network connection, unlike the DS720+ which has dual LAN. This means features like SMB multichannel, port trunking, and network failover aren’t possible with the DVA1622. The lack of a 10GbE upgrade option, which is present in the DS723+ NAS, is another difference.

The 1GbE network connection isn’t a significant dealbreaker, but having up to 16 cameras sharing this connection and the system’s up/down access by sys admins might be a concern for users operating higher-quality cameras in Surveillance Station 9. This could become a problem particularly if they’re on ’24×7 recording and alerts’ mode. Therefore, users would need to carefully consider their surveillance needs before deciding on the DVA1622.

This system supports KVM, with an HDMI 2.0 (4K 60FPS) output, which can exclusively be used for Surveillance Station. This means that in addition to local network and remote access to the surveillance setup, users can have local/direct access whenever necessary. This can be beneficial for faster/high-quality feed access or in the event of network issues.

One downside is that there’s another USB port, which means for a keyboard/video/mouse local standalone setup (which is the precise reason for the HDMI support here), you would lose all USB access unless you use a hub. This could potentially limit the system’s functionality in certain setups. Therefore, users would need to keep this limitation in mind when planning their setup. Another design decision that might be disappointing for some users is the lack of an expansion slot. Both the DS720+ and DS723+ have eSATA ports for the DX517 expansion chassis, which allows for the addition of 5 more bays. This means users of the DVA1622 are limited to the built-in storage bays, which could constrain their storage capacity, especially considering the likelihood of using a RAID1/SHR setup that effectively halves storage potential.

Given that this is a 2-Bay NAS, the scope for archiving your recordings is somewhat limited, presenting a lower glass ceiling than many non-surveillance NAS. This could be a concern for users who need a large amount of storage for long-term archiving of high-definition surveillance footage. However, for users with moderate storage needs, this should not be a significant issue. Overall, the ports and connections of the DVA1622 are satisfactory, but there are many missed opportunities in scalability for network bandwidth and storage that other Synology 2-Bay NAS models handle better. Therefore, users looking for greater scalability may want to consider other options. It’s now time to delve into the specifics of the internal hardware.

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Internal Hardware

Internally, the DVA1622 uses a setup that’s almost identical to the Synology DS720+ released in 2020, but with a few notable differences. One difference is that it lacks the m.2 connections but has a higher base memory. This gives the DVA1622 a unique combination of features that differentiate it from other models.

The DVA1622 is powered by an x86 Intel J4125 Celeron CPU, which operates at a speed of 2.0-2.7Ghz, features integrated graphics, and has a 4-Core, 4 Thread configuration. This CPU has been heavily used by Synology in other releases, including the DS423+ model. However, it is beginning to show its age a little now.

Unlike the Intel Atom powered DVA3221 4-Bay (which boasts an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card), the DVA1622 relies on the CPU’s integrated graphics for its AI surveillance tasks. This limits the number of active AI deep analysis tasks to 2x at any given time, compared to the 8-12x tasks that the DVA3221 can handle. But it’s worth noting that despite this limitation, the DVA1622 still offers impressive performance for most use cases.

It’s important to note that the DVA1622 can also run everything in DSM, Synology’s operating system. This allows users to enjoy a full and polished DSM 7.2 experience in addition to their Surveillance Station 9.1 experience. This makes the DVA1622 an attractive option for users who want a versatile NAS that’s capable of handling a wide range of tasks.

The DVA1622 comes with 6GB of non-ecc, Synology-branded DDR4 memory. While this is slightly odd considering the CPU supports up to 8GB (and Synology supported up to 6GB in the DS720+), it is a nice step up from the 2GB the DS720+ arrived with by default. This additional memory can prove beneficial in handling simultaneous tasks. One of the standout features of the DVA1622 is its deep learning AI capability. This feature enables advanced image recognition and analysis, making it a powerful tool for security surveillance applications. Despite its few limitations and a higher price tag compared to its non-surveillance counterparts, the DVA1622 still holds significant appeal for users looking for a compact, user-friendly NAS with impressive surveillance capabilities

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – DSM 7.2 and Surveillance Station 9.1

The Synology DVA1622 Surveillance NAS Server has been specifically designed to optimally perform with Synology Surveillance Station, which is currently on version 9.1.1. The DVA1622’s seamless integration with Surveillance Station delivers an advanced functionality that far surpasses the features provided by non-edge-AI-recognition NAS servers.

The DVA1622, when synchronized with Surveillance Station, supports a multitude of services that dramatically elevate your surveillance experience. It enables access to live feed from multiple cameras (monitoring center), which can be configured to accommodate several cameras on screen simultaneously. Moreover, it allows for simultaneous viewing of live feeds and previous recordings within the software.

Additionally, the Surveillance Station allows for the application of privacy masks and watermarks on the feed. It also facilitates the upload of eMaps and integrates seamlessly with third-party mapping services like Google Maps and OpenMaps.

Surveillance Station isn’t merely confined to NAS server support. It extends control to IP speakers, door controls, and I/O supported peripherals. Users can access the system swiftly and intuitively via a mobile app, even transforming their mobile into another surveillance feed with Synology Live Cam. The system also supports alerts and push notifications for specific events, and generates downloadable analytical reports.

The Surveillance Station expands its functionality through a host of additional add-ons. These include YouTube Live Streaming, video integrity tools, transaction checking, and IFTTT/Webhook services.

It also includes features like motion detection, missing object detection, idle zone monitoring, and foreign object area tagging. Access to the Surveillance Station is conveniently provided through web browsers, desktop clients, and mobile clients, either over the local network or remotely.

One standout feature is Smart Lapse creation, which enables you to condense extensive recording periods into rapid sequences. This tool allows you to condense a full day’s footage into a few minutes for quick scanning. Additionally, the DVA1622 supports cloud recording with Synology C2 Surveillance (available with a free trial, then on a subscription basis).

The Surveillance Station also includes a Home Mode, which automatically initiates camera schedules when a defined user exits or enters the premises using WiFi links. More details on these features can be found in our review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 on our YouTube channel below.

The DVA1622 NAS server, in collaboration with Surveillance Station, supports advanced AI detection techniques such as people detection, vehicle detection, intrusion detection, crowd detection, and loitering detection. It also incorporates a Smart Search feature that lets you search a predefined area of a recorded feed for specific incidents.

Vehicle Detection – Similar to human detection capabilities, the DVA1622 NAS server extends its intelligent recognition to vehicles as well. This feature proves especially useful when the premises are closed, and an unexpected vehicle enters the vicinity. The surveillance system can be programmed to provide ‘out of hours’ alerts, notifying owners whenever vehicles approach their premises during closed or off hours. This is an excellent way to ensure the security of your property when you’re not physically present.

Intrusion Detection – The DVA1622 takes intrusion detection up a notch with its advanced features. Users can draw lines on the feed that can have multiple bend or break points, marking out specific areas as off-limits. This allows the system to monitor if people or vehicles cross into these forbidden zones. Thanks to edge AI recognition, you can customize this feature to suit your needs—for example, allowing an area to be entered by people but not vehicles or vice versa. This level of customization helps create ‘no go’ zones at specific times, further enhancing the security of your premises.

Crowd Detection – The DVA1622’s recognition capabilities extend beyond just humans and vehicles. It also offers nuanced crowd detection. For instance, the system could be programmed to ignore one or two people in a predefined area. However, if that number increases to five or six, it could trigger an alert. This crowd detection feature enables you to set thresholds for alerts based on the number of people in a particular area, ensuring you’re notified only when necessary.

Loitering Detection – Similar to crowd detection, loitering detection is another impressive feature of the DVA1622. This function enables the server to alert you when an individual or vehicle remains within a predefined area for an unusually long period. People just passing by won’t trigger an alert, but if they loiter around for a while, the system will notify you. This helps you keep an eye on any potential suspicious activity around your premises.

Smart Search – This feature significantly enhances the surveillance process by allowing you to focus on a specific area within recorded feeds. For instance, you can set the system to alert you of any movement, person, or vehicle in a predetermined spot, such as a door, desk, or window. By combining Smart Search with Smart Time Lapse, you can sift through weeks of recordings in a fraction of the time, automatically identifying any noteworthy events in a particular spot. It allows you to retroactively apply advanced surveillance parameters, even if they weren’t set up at the time of recording.

In the last few months, Synology have rolled out their own Surveillance cameras in the BC500 and TC500, both of which arrive with edge AI recognition and do not require a surveillance camera license in use with a NAS (DVA1622 included). This has arguably undermined some of the appeal and value of deep video analysis NAS such as the DVA1622, however these cameras have one very significant limitation. For instance, they do not support database storage. They cannot store a reference of specific people or faces and vehicle registrations for future comparison when they appear in the feed, allowing alerts to be scaled accordingly.

To access this kind of functionality, a DVA system such as the Synology DVA1622. or DVA3221 4-Bay is necessary. Similarly, the Synology Cmaeras cannot keep track of the number of people or objects crossing the set intrusion lines, making it impossible to maintain an accurate count—for instance, knowing who is in or out during a fire alarm. This is where live AI analysis NAS like the DVA1622 shine.

Recordings are sent via HTTPS/SRTP encryption to the NAS, encrypted when recorded to the local memory, and remain encrypted when backed up on the Surveillance C2 cloud service. In conclusion, while the DVA1622 Surveillance NAS Server may not match more expensive Deep Video Analysis systems like the DVA3221, its unique features compared with other more affordable 2-bays, yet inclusive 8 licenses and surveillance AI analysis tasks make it a compelling choice.

However, it’s worth keeping in mind that there is more to the DVA1622 NAS than Surveillance Station, as it also includes the full DSM 7.2 applications and services. Now, to cover the WHOLE Synology DSM software and services that are included with the DVA1622 NAS would result in a review that is twice as long as this review so far! Synology’s Diskstation Manager software that comes with this device (either DSM 7 or DSM 6.2 depending on your preference) provides a massive arrangement of services, applications (first and third-party supported) and a huge number of client applications for Desktop clients, Mobile, Windows, Mac and Linux (as well as a bunch of other more home-based tools). These allow management and access to the data on the DVA1622 in very tailored ways, as well as the web browser-based access that has the appearance, intuitive design and responsiveness of a local operating system. The DSM interface can be accessed by hundreds of users at the same time (with each user having tailored access, rights and privileges). DSM is available with ALL Synology NAS and the depth and abilities of DSM on any NAS are dependent on the hardware architecture of the NAS itself. In the case of the Synology DVA1622, it supports practically EVERYTHING (with the exception of SHR, as previously mentioned). If you want to learn about the latest version of DSM 7 and the software and services that are included with the DVA1622 NAS, watch my FULL review below (alternatively, you can read the DSM 7 Full Review HERE):

As mentioned, the DVA1622 supports pretty much the entirety of the DSM 7 and DSM 6.2 applications and services. If you are an existing user of SaaS and PaaS (Software as a service and Platform as a service) from the likes of Google Workspace and Office 365, knowing that you can synchronize these systems or choose to export away from them onto the Synology services is going to be very appealing. Key business applications that are included with your NAS are:

Synology DVA1622 NAS Review – Conclusion & Verdict

In conclusion, the Synology DVA1622 makes a compelling case for being the best 2-Bay NAS from Synology, despite its price increase over the DS720+ and DS723+. Its ability to run DSM 7.2 on par with its counterparts, while also executing Surveillance Station exceptionally well, sets it apart from the crowd. The added benefits of AI recognition, live AI analysis of recordings, people counting, and intelligent intrusion guidelines are features that can be invaluable to businesses and home users who prioritize their security. Along with these perks, the 8 included surveillance licenses, a significant bump from the 2 that come with other Synology NAS devices, provide excellent value, considering they would cost around $200-250 on their own. The integrated graphics within its CPU offers enhanced multimedia playback capabilities, not only in DSM but also in HEVC recordings in Surveillance Station 9.1. Additionally, the local HDMI/KVM support grants standalone surveillance access, a feature rarely found in other Synology NAS devices. The DVA1622 outclasses the DS720+ by coming with 6GB of memory in its default model, compared to their 2GB. This robust offering, combined with the excellence of Surveillance Station 9.1, one of the world’s best surveillance software, enables the DVA1622 to deliver one of the best experiences of this software.

Access to both DSM and Surveillance Station on the DVA1622 equips you with a full suite of NVR/CCTV services, as well as the backup, syncing, sharing, and security capabilities of DSM 7.2. However, the device isn’t without its limitations. It has only two USB ports, which may limit your flexibility for KVM setup with the HDMI and other USB-dependent tasks. Its single 1GbE port could potentially bottleneck your network, especially when running extensive camera setups and other network-heavy tasks. Additionally, the maximum memory of 6GB could hit a ceiling if you are running several services in DSM 7.2, operating 16 cameras, and managing 2 AI tasks simultaneously, considering the CPU supports up to 8GB. The lack of expandability with the Synology DX517 expansion chassis also limits storage potential, with a 2-Bay NAS typically implying a RAID 1 setup and halving the possible maximum storage. Despite these limitations, the DVA1622 stands as an excellent choice for a 2-Bay NAS. It is highly recommended for both surveillance and standard Synology DSM usage. However, it is essential to remember its lack of local connectivity and scalability when compared to the DS723+, which offers 32GB maximum.

Synology DVA1622 PROS	Synology DVA1622 CONS
Runs BOTH Surveillance Station + DSM All the DVA Task for fraction of DVA3221 Price Supports Local KVM Standalone Access 8 Camera Licenses Included No HDD Compatibility Limits Run VERY Quietly MASSIVE IP Camera Support List Easily the ‘BEST’ Synology 2-Bay Surveillance Station 9.1 Is Still BRILLIANT	Cannot be Expanded 6GB Default/Max Memory is Weird CPU is a little old No M.2 NVMe SSD Support Only 2x AI Tasks at once Only 1x Network Port (no failover)

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As we cross the halfway point of 2023, the popular network-attached storage brand, Synology, has largely refreshed the bulk of its DiskStation catalogue. Sure, there are a few of the more business-y type solutions that will likely roll out towards the end of the year, but the more popular NAS devices in two and four bays have largely now arrived. One of the last solutions to roll out in this genre from Synology is the new DS224+, a 2x quad-core Intel-powered compact solution that promises the ability to run everything in the Synology DSM catalog of applications and services. Serving as the refresh/upgrade to the summer 2020 released DS220+, the new DS224 class serves as an arguably minor upgrade over its predecessor but also benefits from a wide range of innovations by the brand in its software that have arrived in those three years. Now, whether you are an existing previous-generation Synology NAS owner that is considering upgrading your setup towards this new DS224+ NAS, or all very much in your first tentative steps towards migrating away from public cloud services toward your own NAS server (hoping this will be perfect for your needs and budget), that is the objective of today’s article. We want to review the DS224+ and help you decide whether you should buy, and ultimately whether it deserves your data.

We are currently working on a much longer and more detailed review of the new DS224+ NAS. In the meantime I have made this ‘Should You Buy’ short review, alternatively if you want a massive, in-depth review, we recommend you check out friend of the channel ‘Blackvoid’ and his review HERE. This article today forms a much more short-form alternative with five good reasons to go for the NAS and five reasons to maybe remain on the fence a little bit longer. So let’s start with the positives!