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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It’s an odd question, but with Synology arguably making some rather higher business and enterprise decisions in recent years, there have been increasing queries about who would fill the void if they moved onwards and upwards. As Synology holds such a powerful position in the NAS market, their absence would certainly lead to quite the battle of strength from other players. The obvious answer would be QNAP, a brand that has a similar history to Synology (over two decades in the business, Taiwan-based, in-house OS, numerous 1st-party tools, home and business solutions, etc.), but in 2024, the reality is nowhere near as clear-cut. Younger established brands that have jockeyed for 3rd position, such as Asustor and Terramaster, have been challenged by several startups (ZimaCube, Latticeworks, to name just two) entering the fray, as well as established brands like UGREEN, which are expanding their business into the NAS sector. If Synology, for whatever reason, ceased to occupy this important user class of private turnkey server ownership, who would be best placed to occupy it?

How, Where and Why Has Synology Changed?

Synology’s rapid change in business stance to be more enterprise/hyperscale-focused comes at the same time as their frequency of more entry-level, small business, prosumer, and enthusiast solutions has dropped. The regularity of smaller 2-Bay and 4-Bay solutions has noticeably decreased, and the hardware they feature has changed to accommodate more business-type use. This by no means suggests that the brand is making moves to exit these user groups (indeed, support of DSM and the latest revision DSM 7.2.2 extends to all existing users up to many systems released in the late 2010s). However, there has been plenty of user outcry from existing users and potential customers on the architecture of both DSM and the recent releases that exacerbate users to move away from the brand and spend their allocated budgets elsewhere. Synology still comfortably sits ahead of its competitors in terms of software, features, and the UX of their platform, but many changes in policy and support mentioned below have started this trend:

• Changes in 3rd-party HDD compatibility on systems above the 8-Bay scale, prioritizing their own 1st-party labeled HDDs and SSDs, as well as reducing the presentation and compatibility listings on their site significantly.
• Changes in the choice of internal hardware featured in their systems to be more focused on business file processes and less on multimedia use.
• Comparatively smaller increases in base hardware between refreshes of individual series (e.g., J4125 and V1500B CPUs in 2024 launch devices, despite first appearing in 2019/2020).
• Considerable increased focus on software enhancements over hardware (not a bad thing, but an undeniable fact).
• Increased proprietary hardware support over 3rd-party (e.g., Synology-only Memory modules, custom 10GbE adapters like the E10G22-T1, Synology-only M.2 SSDs for Pool Use).
• An increasing number of cloud subscription services getting newer features, while local services remain secure and stable but static.
• New product focus shifting towards newer larger-scale solutions like the evolving GridStation series, Active Protect subscription system, and C2 innovations.
• The predicted elimination of the J entry-level series in favor of the pre-populated and software-streamlined BeeStation.

All of the above are small factors in themselves, but add them all up, and you see small but important stepping stones toward a gear shift in Synology’s target demographic. So, if Synology were to intentionally or inadvertently begin to move outside of these user groups of home, small business, and enthusiast, who stands to fill this space and grow?

QNAP vs Synology?

As mentioned earlier, QNAP stands to be the most likely contender to fill this space. With over 20 years of history, a larger range of hardware solutions than Synology, and software that does pretty much everything Synology’s does, they have been consistent competitors. However, inconsistencies in user experience, conflicting UIs, and a tendency to try to do “too much” have resulted in their losing ground to Synology in terms of software. Add to this the negative brand impact of security incidents in 2020-2022, which tarnished their reputation around security and safety, requiring serious improvement. To the brand’s credit, they have made considerable internal culture changes on this subject, adding bounty programs, tightening system defaults, increasing pen testing, introducing several system security scanning tools, disabling things like SSH and admin super user accounts as standard, and more.

Value Series	Best All Rounder	Prosumer NAS
TS-233 2-Bay NAS	TS-464 4-Bay NAS	TVS-h874 8-Bay NAS
$189 on Amazon (Check Here)	$549 on Amazon (Check Here)	$2499 on Amazon (Check Here)

In terms of hardware, they have mostly stuck to what works, refreshing existing product families at the same rate of 2.5-3 years for desktop small-medium scale, and 3-5 years for larger scale. They have also introduced significantly more recent CPUs from both Intel and AMD, as well as 2.5GbE as standard on their solutions at the same price point as 1GbE. If it weren’t for the damaging brand harm caused by the Deadbolt/QSnatch/Qlocker ransomware attacks, I think Synology would have been significantly challenged by QNAP in the last 2-3 years across all fronts. However, the setback to QNAP’s reputation reduced this growth potential significantly, and in the last two years, we have seen an increasing number of new names pop up in NAS that have also harmed QNAP’s appeal to users in terms of hardware value, the thing they could always be relied upon to beat Synology on. QNAP would still stand to become the ‘top dog’ in the event of a Synology exit (Synexit?) from the low-to-medium tiers of NAS storage, but many new players have entered the field, such as…

UGREEN vs QNAP?

Largely known for their power adapters and PC accessories, a year ago UGREEN had practically no real presence in the world of NAS. They had a smaller scale and more entry-level range of solutions that were limited to the East, but aside from that, they were complete outsiders. Fast forward to now, and following a successful and well-marketed Kickstarter campaign that raised millions of dollars, they are now a provider of genuinely impressive turnkey NAS solutions—the NASync series. The key word there is “turnkey”, as in they are providing both the hardware and the software. They could have just rolled out their hardware and made it OS-free (i.e., “Here’s a ready-built server, now go install UnRAID or TrueNAS”), but instead, they opted to produce and include an impressively responsive NAS OS in UGOS. Genuinely challenging the feature set of the likes of Asustor and Terramaster, as well as the design of Synology and the hardware level of QNAP, UGREEN has made a rapidly growing name for itself in the small-to-medium NAS sector.

Value Series	Best All Rounder	Prosumer NAS
DXP2800 2-Bay NAS	DXP4800 PLUS 4-Bay NAS	DXP8800 PLUS 8-Bay NAS
$399 on Amazon (Check Here)	$699 on Amazon (Check Here)	$1499 on Amazon (Check Here)

They definitely lack the range of solutions that those other brands offer, with only 6 solutions currently available (the DXP2800, DXP4800/PLUS, DXP6680, DXP8800, and DXP480T), and no rackmount solutions yet, but it’s a solid start. Equally, their software, although fluid and responsive in nailing down the NAS fundamentals, lacks many of the more impressive AAA+ solutions that are offered by the bigger brands. Lastly, although they raised a considerable sum during the crowdfunding, they do not have the global support, offices, or availability of their long-running NAS competitors—with solutions only being available in two regions, the US and Germany. All of these factors add up to a brand that is poised to make even bigger splashes in the years to come but is perhaps not quite ready to replace the big dog, Synology, just yet!

ASUSTOR vs Synology?

Always the bridesmaid, but never the bride, Asustor is a brand that has been around in the world of NAS in one shape or form for quite a few years. They are one of the mainstream Taiwanese brands in NAS that has always ‘been there’, but it is only in the last 4-5 years that they have been making sizable moves to take on both Synology and QNAP. One of the main ways in which they pursued this is by developing numerous features in both hardware and software that are available from their competitors individually. So features such as M.2 NVMe-focused storage systems, BTRFS support, WORM locking, 2.5GbE/5GbE support, HDMI output via a dedicated GUI, and more are features available on Synology and QNAP to some extent, but only Asustor rolls them under one brand umbrella. So, how poised are they to fill a void if Synology moved out of this space?

Well, from a hardware standpoint, Asustor is in a very good position. Them being Taiwan-based will certainly soothe concerns that have grown around Chinese companies and data storage solutions. Equally, their hardware has evolved rapidly in their last two generations to feature some genuinely unique solutions that are either specific to the platform or priced at a level that makes them genuinely competitive against DIY and BYO solutions. Systems such as the Flashstor series, Lockerstor series, and even value offerings like the Drivestor are surprisingly well equipped. They are not quite on the same level of hardware as QNAP (who have a significantly more diverse hardware portfolio), but they are fleshing it out very well.

Value Series	Best All Rounder	Prosumer NAS
Nimbustor Gen 2 2-Bay NAS	Flashstor Gen 1 12-Bay NAS	Lockerstor Gen 3 8/10-Bay NAS
$369 on Amazon (Check Here)	$449-749 on Amazon (Check Here)	$1999 on Amazon (Check Here)

However, it is the software of Asustor (ADM) that is unfortunately where the brand is a little more timid. They have a NAS OS, numerous client tools for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android—and they nail down the bulk of the application fundamentals for storage management, multi-site backup handling, multimedia playback, containers, and more. But the platform lacks a few of the more AAA/desirable services, such as AI-powered photo recognition, a 1st-party VM tool, ZFS support, and ultimately is a little more reliant on 3rd-party applications to fill the gaps. They have recently countered this by officially detailing that they support users who buy Asustor hardware to go ahead and install 3rd-party NAS software like TrueNAS or UnRAID without it harming your warranty—so they know they are not leading the pack in terms of their own ADM NAS software but do make noticeable user concessions. With new hardware on the horizon in the Lockerstor Gen3 and Flashstor Gen2 (both of which see a significant bump in hardware profiles), we might see some impressive moves from Asustor in 2025. I just think they still have some ways to go before they can fill any potential void that Synology might leave.

TERRAMASTER vs Synology?

Terramaster has been jockeying for the NAS 3rd place spot with Asustor for well over a decade at this point, and much like their opponent, they have been good at integrating individual features from both QNAP and Synology into their own NAS hardware and TOS platform, but to a larger degree than Asustor. For example, their OS provides largely everything that Asustor ADM does (including TrueNAS/UnRAID support without voiding your warranty) but adds to this with an AI photo recognition platform, their own VM tool, and an impressive Isolation Mode that can sever the system at the click of a button from remote access, 3rd-party PHP, and any external requests (necessitating a restart to disable). However, as this brand is a Chinese brand, there will always be question marks raised by users about how this system compares with Taiwanese-based systems. This is a little unfair, given that Terramaster, Asustor, and QNAP were all successfully hit by the same ransomware attack (Deadbolt) a few years back, so there was plenty of ‘vulnerability’ to spread around!

In terms of hardware, Terramaster has been making some impressive and aggressive strides in this area—with the recent launch of their 3-part F4-424 Intel NAS series (Standard, Pro, and MAX), the release of two 8-bay M.2 NVMe 10GbE equipped systems (the F8 PLUS and F8 SSD PLUS), and new desktop and rackmounts hot on their heels. They have also scaled up the design to better improve cooling, efficiency, and just general visual appeal.

Value Series	Best All Rounder	Prosumer NAS
F2-424 2-Bay NAS	F4-424 Max 4-Bay NAS	T9-500 Pro 9-Bay NAS
$369 on Amazon (Check Here)	$819 on Amazon (Check Here)	$1499 on Amazon (Check Here)

However, much like Asustor, their software is just not able to challenge the standard that Synology has set. For buyers looking for smooth and easy utilization like Synology, Terramaster’s TOS has the danger of feeling a little clunky. Their latest release, TOS6, brings new features, software standards, and design to the mix, but it lacks the range of mobile applications, desktop client tools, and consistent UX/presentation that Synology seems to do so well. Terramaster is a fantastic value-for-money choice, and I would argue they have significantly scaled up the level of hardware and software utility they provide year on year. But they still have a way to go before they can hit the same notes as Synology DSM yet.

WD / Netgear vs Synology?

This is a pretty short one! The answer is no! Both WD and Netgear have regularly reduced their hardware ranges and the frequency of software updates these last few years, and although there are a decent range of business file server systems still being released, the general home/enthusiast/prosumer level of hardware is pretty poor and uninteresting compared to everyone else on this list so far. I cannot help but get the feeling that, aside from some basic backup NAS systems that are still listed at the majority of retailers, the bulk of their range has been in circulation for 5-6 years now without any refresh in sight. For basic target file/folder storage, these systems still provide some limited modern NAS utility, but overall, they are a fairly weak alternative to Synology’s offerings in 2024.

A UniFi NAS?

With increased mentions and leaks online towards a potential NAS in the works from UniFi, this could be a very credible alternative to Synology in terms of software UX and presentation. UniFi, and its incredibly user-friendly UX featured on their Switch, Router, NVR, and Dream Machine combination systems, is where UniFi shines. No doubt any UniFi NAS solution would need to similarly blend into their ecosystem to the same degree. That said, if they were to launch a system, all their experience in the fields of network management, router security, and surveillance systems might not necessarily translate into a similar pedigree in network-attached storage. It’s hard to discuss how or if UniFi could fill any market space that a potential Synology absence would create, as they do not have any systems out in the market to make an informed decision. This is for the “To Be Continued…” pile!

Drobo vs Synology?

No…just…no. See Video Below:

IceWhale / ZimaCube

This is a very interesting one. 2023 and 2024 saw several companies arrive in the turnkey NAS space via the crowdfunding route (we already discussed UGREEN as the biggest example), wanting to break into the market. However, IceWhale benefits from having already launched two previous successfully fulfilled campaigns and is just completing their third one with the ZimaCube NAS system. Arriving with the lightweight containerized platform Zima OS (a modified version of their existing Casa OS), this new series is pretty impressive for its scale and price point at launch. Add to that the significantly unique design, impressive use of 10GbE and Thunderbolt over IP, and a 6x HDD / 4x NVMe system in a compact case, and you can see why they have made a fairly significant splash for a brand that is comparatively unheard of compared to Synology, QNAP, etc.

However, as robust as their range of solutions is (ZimaBoard, ZimaBlade, and ZimaCube), the software is still very rudimentary compared to the bulk of other browser GUI and more “operating system”-stylized UX. There are virtually no client applications, except for their own system search and connection client tools. An eventual successor to Synology, if they moved upwards toward bigger and more business-oriented solutions, would need to hit the software functionality and user experience exceedingly early and exceedingly well.

Mini PC Brands – Lincplus, Aoostar, etc.

This is an odd one. There have been a large number of solutions appearing on sites such as AliExpress that arrive as “OS-Free” services, allowing a user to get a pre-built NAS hardware solution (i.e., no need to build one yourself, which takes longer and requires a degree of technical understanding). The end user can then choose to install popular and well-established solutions like TrueNAS, UnRAID, OpenMediaVault, and more.

Value Option	Best All Rounder	SSD Focused NAS
Aoostar WTR Pro 4-Bay NAS	Minsiforum MS-01 3/6-Bay NAS	Lincplus Lincstation N1 6-Bay NAS
$399-799 on Amazon (Check Here)	$399 on Amazon (Check Here)	$399 on Amazon (Check Here)

This serves as an impressively economical solution and has significantly grown in popularity in 2023/2024, but these 3rd-party software platforms lack a lot of the ease of use and quality of life client tools for modern devices that Synology features. Indeed, despite efforts like UnRAID 7 making its day-to-day use much easier, and TrueNAS working with HexOS for a more user-friendly output, these still pale in comparison to DSM and will also require a greater degree of technical user input in the long term to maintain stability, versus Synology’s rather more “it takes care of itself” design.

Synology vs EVERYONE ELSE – Conclusion and Verdict

If Synology were to leave the home/enthusiast/prosumer/small business tier very soon, I do think QNAP would stand to reoccupy this ground. However, give it 2-3 years, and I do think players like Terramaster, Asustor, and yes—even UGREEN—are poised to give QNAP some serious consumer competition. No doubt Synology is still keeping an eye on their competition (big and small) and would not willingly or easily give up this sector without a fight. However, there is no denying that the turnkey NAS industry is no longer the 2-3 horse race it was just five years ago!

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WE LOVE COFFEE

It’s an odd question, but with Synology arguably making some rather higher business and enterprise decisions in recent years, there have been increasing queries about who would fill the void if they moved onwards and upwards. As Synology holds such a powerful position in the NAS market, their absence would certainly lead to quite the battle of strength from other players. The obvious answer would be QNAP, a brand that has a similar history to Synology (over two decades in the business, Taiwan-based, in-house OS, numerous 1st-party tools, home and business solutions, etc.), but in 2024, the reality is nowhere near as clear-cut. Younger established brands that have jockeyed for 3rd position, such as Asustor and Terramaster, have been challenged by several startups (ZimaCube, Latticeworks, to name just two) entering the fray, as well as established brands like UGREEN, which are expanding their business into the NAS sector. If Synology, for whatever reason, ceased to occupy this important user class of private turnkey server ownership, who would be best placed to occupy it?

How, Where and Why Has Synology Changed?

Synology’s rapid change in business stance to be more enterprise/hyperscale-focused comes at the same time as their frequency of more entry-level, small business, prosumer, and enthusiast solutions has dropped. The regularity of smaller 2-Bay and 4-Bay solutions has noticeably decreased, and the hardware they feature has changed to accommodate more business-type use. This by no means suggests that the brand is making moves to exit these user groups (indeed, support of DSM and the latest revision DSM 7.2.2 extends to all existing users up to many systems released in the late 2010s). However, there has been plenty of user outcry from existing users and potential customers on the architecture of both DSM and the recent releases that exacerbate users to move away from the brand and spend their allocated budgets elsewhere. Synology still comfortably sits ahead of its competitors in terms of software, features, and the UX of their platform, but many changes in policy and support mentioned below have started this trend:

• Changes in 3rd-party HDD compatibility on systems above the 8-Bay scale, prioritizing their own 1st-party labeled HDDs and SSDs, as well as reducing the presentation and compatibility listings on their site significantly.
• Changes in the choice of internal hardware featured in their systems to be more focused on business file processes and less on multimedia use.
• Comparatively smaller increases in base hardware between refreshes of individual series (e.g., J4125 and V1500B CPUs in 2024 launch devices, despite first appearing in 2019/2020).
• Considerable increased focus on software enhancements over hardware (not a bad thing, but an undeniable fact).
• Increased proprietary hardware support over 3rd-party (e.g., Synology-only Memory modules, custom 10GbE adapters like the E10G22-T1, Synology-only M.2 SSDs for Pool Use).
• An increasing number of cloud subscription services getting newer features, while local services remain secure and stable but static.
• New product focus shifting towards newer larger-scale solutions like the evolving GridStation series, Active Protect subscription system, and C2 innovations.
• The predicted elimination of the J entry-level series in favor of the pre-populated and software-streamlined BeeStation.

All of the above are small factors in themselves, but add them all up, and you see small but important stepping stones toward a gear shift in Synology’s target demographic. So, if Synology were to intentionally or inadvertently begin to move outside of these user groups of home, small business, and enthusiast, who stands to fill this space and grow?

QNAP vs Synology?

As mentioned earlier, QNAP stands to be the most likely contender to fill this space. With over 20 years of history, a larger range of hardware solutions than Synology, and software that does pretty much everything Synology’s does, they have been consistent competitors. However, inconsistencies in user experience, conflicting UIs, and a tendency to try to do “too much” have resulted in their losing ground to Synology in terms of software. Add to this the negative brand impact of security incidents in 2020-2022, which tarnished their reputation around security and safety, requiring serious improvement. To the brand’s credit, they have made considerable internal culture changes on this subject, adding bounty programs, tightening system defaults, increasing pen testing, introducing several system security scanning tools, disabling things like SSH and admin super user accounts as standard, and more.

Value Series	Best All Rounder	Prosumer NAS
TS-233 2-Bay NAS	TS-464 4-Bay NAS	TVS-h874 8-Bay NAS
$189 on Amazon (Check Here)	$549 on Amazon (Check Here)	$2499 on Amazon (Check Here)

In terms of hardware, they have mostly stuck to what works, refreshing existing product families at the same rate of 2.5-3 years for desktop small-medium scale, and 3-5 years for larger scale. They have also introduced significantly more recent CPUs from both Intel and AMD, as well as 2.5GbE as standard on their solutions at the same price point as 1GbE. If it weren’t for the damaging brand harm caused by the Deadbolt/QSnatch/Qlocker ransomware attacks, I think Synology would have been significantly challenged by QNAP in the last 2-3 years across all fronts. However, the setback to QNAP’s reputation reduced this growth potential significantly, and in the last two years, we have seen an increasing number of new names pop up in NAS that have also harmed QNAP’s appeal to users in terms of hardware value, the thing they could always be relied upon to beat Synology on. QNAP would still stand to become the ‘top dog’ in the event of a Synology exit (Synexit?) from the low-to-medium tiers of NAS storage, but many new players have entered the field, such as…

UGREEN vs QNAP?

Largely known for their power adapters and PC accessories, a year ago UGREEN had practically no real presence in the world of NAS. They had a smaller scale and more entry-level range of solutions that were limited to the East, but aside from that, they were complete outsiders. Fast forward to now, and following a successful and well-marketed Kickstarter campaign that raised millions of dollars, they are now a provider of genuinely impressive turnkey NAS solutions—the NASync series. The key word there is “turnkey”, as in they are providing both the hardware and the software. They could have just rolled out their hardware and made it OS-free (i.e., “Here’s a ready-built server, now go install UnRAID or TrueNAS”), but instead, they opted to produce and include an impressively responsive NAS OS in UGOS. Genuinely challenging the feature set of the likes of Asustor and Terramaster, as well as the design of Synology and the hardware level of QNAP, UGREEN has made a rapidly growing name for itself in the small-to-medium NAS sector.

Value Series	Best All Rounder	Prosumer NAS
DXP2800 2-Bay NAS	DXP4800 PLUS 4-Bay NAS	DXP8800 PLUS 8-Bay NAS
$399 on Amazon (Check Here)	$699 on Amazon (Check Here)	$1499 on Amazon (Check Here)

They definitely lack the range of solutions that those other brands offer, with only 6 solutions currently available (the DXP2800, DXP4800/PLUS, DXP6680, DXP8800, and DXP480T), and no rackmount solutions yet, but it’s a solid start. Equally, their software, although fluid and responsive in nailing down the NAS fundamentals, lacks many of the more impressive AAA+ solutions that are offered by the bigger brands. Lastly, although they raised a considerable sum during the crowdfunding, they do not have the global support, offices, or availability of their long-running NAS competitors—with solutions only being available in two regions, the US and Germany. All of these factors add up to a brand that is poised to make even bigger splashes in the years to come but is perhaps not quite ready to replace the big dog, Synology, just yet!

ASUSTOR vs Synology?

Always the bridesmaid, but never the bride, Asustor is a brand that has been around in the world of NAS in one shape or form for quite a few years. They are one of the mainstream Taiwanese brands in NAS that has always ‘been there’, but it is only in the last 4-5 years that they have been making sizable moves to take on both Synology and QNAP. One of the main ways in which they pursued this is by developing numerous features in both hardware and software that are available from their competitors individually. So features such as M.2 NVMe-focused storage systems, BTRFS support, WORM locking, 2.5GbE/5GbE support, HDMI output via a dedicated GUI, and more are features available on Synology and QNAP to some extent, but only Asustor rolls them under one brand umbrella. So, how poised are they to fill a void if Synology moved out of this space?

Well, from a hardware standpoint, Asustor is in a very good position. Them being Taiwan-based will certainly soothe concerns that have grown around Chinese companies and data storage solutions. Equally, their hardware has evolved rapidly in their last two generations to feature some genuinely unique solutions that are either specific to the platform or priced at a level that makes them genuinely competitive against DIY and BYO solutions. Systems such as the Flashstor series, Lockerstor series, and even value offerings like the Drivestor are surprisingly well equipped. They are not quite on the same level of hardware as QNAP (who have a significantly more diverse hardware portfolio), but they are fleshing it out very well.

Value Series	Best All Rounder	Prosumer NAS
Nimbustor Gen 2 2-Bay NAS	Flashstor Gen 1 12-Bay NAS	Lockerstor Gen 3 8/10-Bay NAS
$369 on Amazon (Check Here)	$449-749 on Amazon (Check Here)	$1999 on Amazon (Check Here)

However, it is the software of Asustor (ADM) that is unfortunately where the brand is a little more timid. They have a NAS OS, numerous client tools for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android—and they nail down the bulk of the application fundamentals for storage management, multi-site backup handling, multimedia playback, containers, and more. But the platform lacks a few of the more AAA/desirable services, such as AI-powered photo recognition, a 1st-party VM tool, ZFS support, and ultimately is a little more reliant on 3rd-party applications to fill the gaps. They have recently countered this by officially detailing that they support users who buy Asustor hardware to go ahead and install 3rd-party NAS software like TrueNAS or UnRAID without it harming your warranty—so they know they are not leading the pack in terms of their own ADM NAS software but do make noticeable user concessions. With new hardware on the horizon in the Lockerstor Gen3 and Flashstor Gen2 (both of which see a significant bump in hardware profiles), we might see some impressive moves from Asustor in 2025. I just think they still have some ways to go before they can fill any potential void that Synology might leave.

TERRAMASTER vs Synology?

Terramaster has been jockeying for the NAS 3rd place spot with Asustor for well over a decade at this point, and much like their opponent, they have been good at integrating individual features from both QNAP and Synology into their own NAS hardware and TOS platform, but to a larger degree than Asustor. For example, their OS provides largely everything that Asustor ADM does (including TrueNAS/UnRAID support without voiding your warranty) but adds to this with an AI photo recognition platform, their own VM tool, and an impressive Isolation Mode that can sever the system at the click of a button from remote access, 3rd-party PHP, and any external requests (necessitating a restart to disable). However, as this brand is a Chinese brand, there will always be question marks raised by users about how this system compares with Taiwanese-based systems. This is a little unfair, given that Terramaster, Asustor, and QNAP were all successfully hit by the same ransomware attack (Deadbolt) a few years back, so there was plenty of ‘vulnerability’ to spread around!

In terms of hardware, Terramaster has been making some impressive and aggressive strides in this area—with the recent launch of their 3-part F4-424 Intel NAS series (Standard, Pro, and MAX), the release of two 8-bay M.2 NVMe 10GbE equipped systems (the F8 PLUS and F8 SSD PLUS), and new desktop and rackmounts hot on their heels. They have also scaled up the design to better improve cooling, efficiency, and just general visual appeal.

Value Series	Best All Rounder	Prosumer NAS
F2-424 2-Bay NAS	F4-424 Max 4-Bay NAS	T9-500 Pro 9-Bay NAS
$369 on Amazon (Check Here)	$819 on Amazon (Check Here)	$1499 on Amazon (Check Here)

However, much like Asustor, their software is just not able to challenge the standard that Synology has set. For buyers looking for smooth and easy utilization like Synology, Terramaster’s TOS has the danger of feeling a little clunky. Their latest release, TOS6, brings new features, software standards, and design to the mix, but it lacks the range of mobile applications, desktop client tools, and consistent UX/presentation that Synology seems to do so well. Terramaster is a fantastic value-for-money choice, and I would argue they have significantly scaled up the level of hardware and software utility they provide year on year. But they still have a way to go before they can hit the same notes as Synology DSM yet.

WD / Netgear vs Synology?

This is a pretty short one! The answer is no! Both WD and Netgear have regularly reduced their hardware ranges and the frequency of software updates these last few years, and although there are a decent range of business file server systems still being released, the general home/enthusiast/prosumer level of hardware is pretty poor and uninteresting compared to everyone else on this list so far. I cannot help but get the feeling that, aside from some basic backup NAS systems that are still listed at the majority of retailers, the bulk of their range has been in circulation for 5-6 years now without any refresh in sight. For basic target file/folder storage, these systems still provide some limited modern NAS utility, but overall, they are a fairly weak alternative to Synology’s offerings in 2024.

A UniFi NAS?

With increased mentions and leaks online towards a potential NAS in the works from UniFi, this could be a very credible alternative to Synology in terms of software UX and presentation. UniFi, and its incredibly user-friendly UX featured on their Switch, Router, NVR, and Dream Machine combination systems, is where UniFi shines. No doubt any UniFi NAS solution would need to similarly blend into their ecosystem to the same degree. That said, if they were to launch a system, all their experience in the fields of network management, router security, and surveillance systems might not necessarily translate into a similar pedigree in network-attached storage. It’s hard to discuss how or if UniFi could fill any market space that a potential Synology absence would create, as they do not have any systems out in the market to make an informed decision. This is for the “To Be Continued…” pile!

Drobo vs Synology?

No…just…no. See Video Below:

IceWhale / ZimaCube

This is a very interesting one. 2023 and 2024 saw several companies arrive in the turnkey NAS space via the crowdfunding route (we already discussed UGREEN as the biggest example), wanting to break into the market. However, IceWhale benefits from having already launched two previous successfully fulfilled campaigns and is just completing their third one with the ZimaCube NAS system. Arriving with the lightweight containerized platform Zima OS (a modified version of their existing Casa OS), this new series is pretty impressive for its scale and price point at launch. Add to that the significantly unique design, impressive use of 10GbE and Thunderbolt over IP, and a 6x HDD / 4x NVMe system in a compact case, and you can see why they have made a fairly significant splash for a brand that is comparatively unheard of compared to Synology, QNAP, etc.

However, as robust as their range of solutions is (ZimaBoard, ZimaBlade, and ZimaCube), the software is still very rudimentary compared to the bulk of other browser GUI and more “operating system”-stylized UX. There are virtually no client applications, except for their own system search and connection client tools. An eventual successor to Synology, if they moved upwards toward bigger and more business-oriented solutions, would need to hit the software functionality and user experience exceedingly early and exceedingly well.

Mini PC Brands – Lincplus, Aoostar, etc.

This is an odd one. There have been a large number of solutions appearing on sites such as AliExpress that arrive as “OS-Free” services, allowing a user to get a pre-built NAS hardware solution (i.e., no need to build one yourself, which takes longer and requires a degree of technical understanding). The end user can then choose to install popular and well-established solutions like TrueNAS, UnRAID, OpenMediaVault, and more.

Value Option	Best All Rounder	SSD Focused NAS
Aoostar WTR Pro 4-Bay NAS	Minsiforum MS-01 3/6-Bay NAS	Lincplus Lincstation N1 6-Bay NAS
$399-799 on Amazon (Check Here)	$399 on Amazon (Check Here)	$399 on Amazon (Check Here)

This serves as an impressively economical solution and has significantly grown in popularity in 2023/2024, but these 3rd-party software platforms lack a lot of the ease of use and quality of life client tools for modern devices that Synology features. Indeed, despite efforts like UnRAID 7 making its day-to-day use much easier, and TrueNAS working with HexOS for a more user-friendly output, these still pale in comparison to DSM and will also require a greater degree of technical user input in the long term to maintain stability, versus Synology’s rather more “it takes care of itself” design.

Synology vs EVERYONE ELSE – Conclusion and Verdict

If Synology were to leave the home/enthusiast/prosumer/small business tier very soon, I do think QNAP would stand to reoccupy this ground. However, give it 2-3 years, and I do think players like Terramaster, Asustor, and yes—even UGREEN—are poised to give QNAP some serious consumer competition. No doubt Synology is still keeping an eye on their competition (big and small) and would not willingly or easily give up this sector without a fight. However, there is no denying that the turnkey NAS industry is no longer the 2-3 horse race it was just five years ago!

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WE LOVE COFFEE

As someone who has long relied on Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices for both personal and professional use, I’ve come to appreciate the convenience and functionality they offer. These devices provide a centralized and easily accessible repository for my important data, making them indispensable tools in my digital life. However, with this convenience comes a significant risk: the ever-present threat of cyberattacks. Over the past 15 years, we’ve seen numerous high-profile security incidents targeting NAS devices, underscoring the vulnerabilities inherent in these systems.

In this article, I want to take a closer look at some of the most significant security breaches that have impacted NAS devices from major brands like QNAP, Synology, Asustor, Terramaster, Western Digital, Netgear, and Buffalo. I’ll delve into each incident, exploring the specific vulnerabilities that were exploited, the methods used by attackers, and the devastating impacts on users and organizations. To make this information more accessible, I’ll provide user-friendly explanations that demystify the technical details, helping even those without a technical background understand how these attacks were carried out. Beyond recounting these incidents, I aim to identify commonalities among the attacks, highlighting recurring themes and valuable lessons we can all learn from. Finally, I’ll offer comprehensive recommendations on settings, setup options, and security measures that we can implement to protect our NAS devices from similar threats. By understanding these past incidents and adopting proactive security measures, we can better safeguard our valuable data and ensure the integrity of our NAS systems against future cyber threats.

Which NAS Security Settings Should You Focus On (TL;DR)?

Enhance your NAS device’s security by keeping firmware updated, using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, disabling unnecessary services, and using VPNs. Implement firewalls, IP access control, and regularly monitor logs. Ensure backups, use antivirus software, encrypt connections, set user permissions, and disable default admin accounts. Employ auto block for failed logins, utilize security scanning apps, limit client access with tools like Tailscale, disable SSH when not in use, and disable unused network protocols.

By implementing these suggested security measures, you can greatly enhance the protection of your NAS device against various cyber threats.

1. QNAP NAS Devices and QLocker Ransomware (2021)

• Vulnerability: Exploited the SQL injection vulnerability in QNAP Photo Station.
• CVE: CVE-2020-36195
• Vulnerability Explained: A SQL injection vulnerability occurs when an attacker can insert or “inject” malicious SQL code into a query through an input field or parameter. In the case of QNAP’s Photo Station, the application didn’t properly sanitize user inputs, allowing attackers to manipulate database queries. This manipulation gave attackers unauthorized access to the NAS system. They used this access to execute commands that should have been restricted, effectively bypassing normal authentication controls. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can provide attackers with full control over the database and, by extension, potentially the entire system.
• Exploitation: Attackers exploited a SQL injection vulnerability in the Photo Station app to gain unauthorized access and used 7-Zip to encrypt files.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine you have a house with a poorly designed lock on one of the windows (the Photo Station app). The attackers found this weak spot and used a special tool (SQL injection) to open the window and sneak inside. Once inside, they didn’t steal anything right away. Instead, they put all your valuable items into strong, locked boxes (using 7-Zip to encrypt the files) and took the keys with them. Now, you can’t access any of your valuables unless you pay them to get the keys back (paying the ransom). They demanded the payment in Bitcoin, which is like asking for payment in an untraceable form of digital cash.
• Brand Impacted: QNAP
• Impact: Thousands of QNAP NAS devices were affected, with users unable to access their files unless they paid the ransom in Bitcoin. Reports indicate that over 1,000 devices were infected within the first few days of the attack. The total financial impact on users was significant, as the ransom demands ranged from $200 to $1,200 per device. The attack caused widespread disruption, with many users losing access to critical data.
• Resolution: QNAP released security updates to patch the vulnerabilities and provided instructions for mitigating the attack.
• Link: QNAP Security Advisory
• Link: Official QNAP Response and Suggestions for Mitigation

2. Synology NAS Devices and SynoLocker Ransomware (2014)

• Vulnerability: Targeted vulnerabilities in DSM software, particularly outdated firmware and weak passwords.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: The vulnerabilities in Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM) software were primarily due to outdated firmware and weak passwords. Outdated firmware often contains known security flaws that have been patched in later versions, but if not updated, these flaws remain exploitable. Weak passwords are easily guessed or cracked using brute-force attacks, where attackers systematically try all possible password combinations until the correct one is found. These vulnerabilities made it relatively easy for attackers to gain unauthorized access to Synology NAS devices, especially those that were not properly secured.
• Exploitation: Attackers used brute-force methods and exploited known vulnerabilities in outdated DSM software to encrypt files and demand ransom.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Think of your NAS as a safe in your home. The attackers used two main strategies to break in. First, they used brute-force attacks, which is like trying millions of different combinations on the safe’s lock (password) until it opens. Second, they exploited known vulnerabilities in the DSM software, similar to using a master key that fits because of a flaw in the safe’s design (old software bugs). Once they got in, they didn’t steal anything outright. Instead, they locked everything inside the safe with their own lock and told you that you need to pay them (ransom) to get the new combination to open it.
• Brand Impacted: Synology
• Impact: Thousands of Synology NAS devices were encrypted, causing significant disruption and data loss. The attack highlighted the importance of updating firmware and using strong, unique passwords. Users reported substantial financial losses and operational downtime, with ransom demands typically around $350 to $400 in Bitcoin. This attack prompted many users to reevaluate their security practices and invest in better protection measures.
• Resolution: Synology released security updates and tools to help users check their systems and advised on strengthening security settings.
• Link: Synology Security Advisory
• Link: Official Synology Response and Suggestions for Mitigation

3. QNAP, Asustor, and Terramaster NAS Devices and DeadBolt Ransomware (2022)

• Vulnerability: Targeted unspecified vulnerabilities in NAS firmware.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: The exact vulnerabilities exploited by DeadBolt ransomware were not publicly disclosed, but they likely involved flaws in the NAS firmware or application software that allowed unauthorized access. Such vulnerabilities can include weak authentication mechanisms, unpatched software bugs, or misconfigurations that leave the system exposed to external attacks. These types of vulnerabilities can be exploited to gain administrative access, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands, including deploying ransomware.
• Exploitation: Attackers exploited vulnerabilities in the NAS firmware to gain unauthorized access and encrypt users’ files.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Picture your NAS as a highly secure filing cabinet. The attackers discovered secret weaknesses (unspecified vulnerabilities) in the cabinet’s lock system that weren’t known to the public. They exploited these weaknesses to sneak into the cabinet. Once inside, they didn’t take the documents but instead locked them in new folders with padlocks and took the keys with them. Now, if you want to access your documents, you need to pay the attackers to get the keys to these new padlocks. The ransom was typically requested in Bitcoin, a form of digital currency that is hard to trace.
• Brands Impacted: QNAP, Asustor, Terramaster
• Impact: Significant number of NAS users across these brands found their files encrypted and were unable to access them without paying the ransom. The DeadBolt ransomware was particularly widespread, affecting thousands of devices globally. Reports indicated that over 3,600 QNAP devices alone were compromised. The financial impact was substantial, with ransom demands often exceeding $1,000 per device. This attack caused major disruptions for both personal and business users, highlighting the critical need for robust security measures and regular updates.
• Resolution: QNAP, Asustor, and Terramaster released firmware updates and provided steps for users to secure their devices. They also advised users to disconnect their NAS from the internet when not in use and to implement strong security practices.
• Links: Our Article on ‘Are NAS Drives Safe?‘ which covers each incident in more detail + video links

4. WD My Book Live Devices Wiped by Exploit (2021)

• Vulnerability: Remote command execution vulnerability in My Book Live firmware.
• CVE: CVE-2018-18472
• Vulnerability Explained: Remote command execution vulnerabilities allow attackers to run arbitrary commands on a device from a remote location. This specific vulnerability (CVE-2018-18472) was due to a flaw in the My Book Live firmware that allowed unauthorized users to send commands to the device over the internet. These commands could be used to perform actions such as factory resetting the device, deleting all stored data. Such vulnerabilities are critical because they provide full control over the device to the attacker without requiring physical access.
• Exploitation: Attackers exploited the vulnerability to perform remote factory resets, wiping data from the devices.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine your NAS is like a digital storage box that holds all your important files. The attackers found an old flaw (CVE-2018-18472) that allowed them to send a command from far away (remote command execution) telling the box to reset itself to the way it was when it was brand new. This reset deleted all the data stored inside, similar to wiping everything off a computer when you restore it to factory settings. Because of this command, all your files were erased, causing significant distress and data loss.
• Brand Impacted: Western Digital
• Impact: Thousands of users reported complete data loss, causing significant distress. The attack was widespread, affecting users globally. Estimates suggest that tens of thousands of devices were potentially vulnerable, with a significant portion being affected. The total impact included not only the loss of personal and business data but also the trust in the security of Western Digital products.
• Resolution: Western Digital advised users to disconnect devices from the internet and offered data recovery services and discounts on newer products.
• Link: Western Digital Advisory

5. QNAP NAS Devices and eCh0raix Ransomware (2019)

• Vulnerability: Exploited weak passwords and vulnerabilities in QNAP firmware.
• CVE: CVE-2019-7192, CVE-2019-7193
• Vulnerability Explained: The eCh0raix ransomware exploited two primary vulnerabilities in QNAP devices: weak passwords and specific software flaws. CVE-2019-7192 and CVE-2019-7193 were vulnerabilities that allowed attackers to bypass authentication and gain administrative access to the NAS. Weak passwords compounded the issue by making it easier for attackers to perform brute-force attacks, systematically guessing passwords until they found the correct one. Once inside, the attackers could deploy ransomware to encrypt files.
• Exploitation: The ransomware used brute-force attacks and exploited known firmware vulnerabilities to encrypt files and demand ransom.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine your NAS as a secure vault. The attackers used two main methods to get in. First, they used brute-force attacks, which is like trying every possible combination to guess the password of your vault (weak passwords). Second, they took advantage of known software bugs (CVE-2019-7192 and CVE-2019-7193) that had not been fixed, similar to using a skeleton key that works because of a design flaw. Once inside, they locked all your files with their own locks and demanded money (ransom) to provide the keys to unlock them.
• Brand Impacted: QNAP
• Impact: Many QNAP NAS users found their files encrypted, leading to operational downtime and data accessibility issues. The attack impacted thousands of users worldwide, with ransom demands typically around $600 to $1,000 in Bitcoin. The financial burden on users and businesses was significant, as many had to pay the ransom or face permanent data loss. The attack highlighted the need for better password practices and timely software updates.
• Resolution: QNAP released firmware updates, advised on using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and updating systems.
• Link: QNAP Security Advisory

6. Synology NAS Devices and Bitcoin Miner Malware

• Vulnerability: Exploited outdated DSM software.
• CVE: CVE-2013-6955
• Vulnerability Explained: The vulnerability in Synology’s DSM software (CVE-2013-6955) allowed attackers to gain unauthorized access to the NAS devices. This specific flaw was related to inadequate input validation, which let attackers run arbitrary commands on the device. The attackers exploited this to install cryptocurrency mining software, which used the device’s resources to mine Bitcoin. This kind of malware doesn’t steal data but hijacks the system’s processing power, leading to reduced performance and potential hardware damage due to overheating.
• Exploitation: Attackers installed cryptocurrency mining malware on devices, utilizing system resources for Bitcoin mining.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Think of your NAS as a computer that runs software to manage files. The attackers found an old software bug (CVE-2013-6955) that let them sneak in and install a program that forces your NAS to work extra hard, like making a computer solve complex puzzles to create digital coins called Bitcoins. This process uses a lot of the NAS’s processing power, making it slow and possibly causing it to overheat, similar to how a computer might slow down and get hot if it’s running too many programs at once.
• Brand Impacted: Synology
• Impact: Reduced performance, potential overheating, and increased electricity costs for users. The attack affected thousands of Synology devices globally. Users reported significant drops in performance, and some devices even experienced hardware failures due to the increased load and heat. The financial impact included increased electricity bills and costs associated with hardware repair or replacement.
• Resolution: Synology released updates to patch vulnerabilities, remove malware, and advised on regular updates and security monitoring.
• Link: Synology Official Post and eTeknix Article

7. WD My Cloud Security Incident (2023)

• Vulnerability: Unauthorized access to Western Digital in-house servers.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: The security incident involved an unauthorized infiltration of Western Digital’s in-house servers, which managed WD My Cloud devices. Attackers exploited a vulnerability within the server infrastructure, leading to a breach that compromised sensitive data and potentially manipulated device functions. This vulnerability was linked to insufficient security protocols and inadequate monitoring, allowing attackers to access and control server operations without authorization.
• Exploitation: Attackers infiltrated Western Digital’s servers, compromising sensitive data and potentially affecting the functionality and security of WD My Cloud devices.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine the WD My Cloud as a secure vault where you keep your important files. The attackers found a way to break into the main control system of this vault (Western Digital’s servers). Once inside, they could access sensitive information and possibly control how the vault operated. This is like thieves breaking into the control room of a bank vault, gaining access to all the safes and the ability to manipulate the vault’s systems.
• Brand Impacted: Western Digital
• Impact: Compromised security, potential data breaches, and loss of user trust. The attack affected numerous WD My Cloud users globally, exposing sensitive information and causing significant inconvenience due to the disabled cloud services. Users faced operational disruptions, especially those who depended solely on remote access. The incident underscored the importance of comprehensive server security measures and the necessity for users to configure local access options as a contingency plan.
• Resolution: Western Digital implemented robust security enhancements, released patches to address the vulnerabilities, and restored cloud services once the environment was secured. They also advised users on best practices for securing their devices and data, including enabling local/LAN access to ensure uninterrupted access in case of future incidents.
• Link: Western Digital Advisory and Public Disclosure on Business Wire

(Click HERE or Below to Learn More about the WD Cyber Incident)

8. Buffalo NAS Devices and Persistent XSS Vulnerabilities (2017)

• Vulnerability: Multiple persistent XSS vulnerabilities in the web interface.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities occur when an application allows users to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by others. In Buffalo NAS devices, these persistent XSS vulnerabilities allowed attackers to inject scripts into the web interface that would execute whenever an authorized user accessed the page. This could lead to unauthorized actions performed on behalf of the user, theft of session cookies, and other malicious activities. The flaws were due to inadequate input validation and sanitization in the web application.
• Exploitation: Attackers injected malicious scripts into the web interface, potentially gaining access to sensitive information.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Think of your NAS’s web interface as a control panel you access through a browser. The attackers found a way to insert malicious code (scripts) into this control panel, which would run when you or others accessed the panel. This is like someone sneaking into a control room and installing hidden cameras to watch and capture sensitive information whenever you use the controls, potentially stealing passwords, personal data, or other sensitive information.
• Brand Impacted: Buffalo
• Impact: Risk of data theft and unauthorized access, compromising device security. The vulnerabilities affected many users globally, although exact numbers were not disclosed. The primary risk was the theft of sensitive information, which could be used for further attacks or identity theft. The incident highlighted the need for better web application security in NAS devices.
• Resolution: Buffalo released firmware updates to address XSS vulnerabilities and advised users to update firmware regularly.
• Link: Buffalo Security Advisory and CVE listings

9. Netgear ReadyNAS Devices and Remote Code Execution Vulnerability (2016)

• Vulnerability: Critical remote code execution vulnerability in ReadyNAS devices.
• CVE: CVE-2016-1524
• Vulnerability Explained: Remote code execution vulnerabilities like CVE-2016-1524 allow attackers to run arbitrary code on a device from a remote location. This specific vulnerability was due to inadequate input validation and poor access control in the ReadyNAS firmware. Attackers could exploit this flaw to send specially crafted requests that would execute commands on the device without proper authorization. This level of access could be used to steal data, modify configurations, or install malware.
• Exploitation: Attackers executed arbitrary code on affected ReadyNAS devices, leading to potential data theft and system compromise.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine your NAS as a secure storage unit. The attackers found a flaw (CVE-2016-1524) that allowed them to send commands to the NAS from a remote location, as if they had a remote control that could do anything. This meant they could make the NAS perform any actions they wanted, such as stealing files, changing settings, or installing harmful programs, without needing physical access to the device.
• Brand Impacted: Netgear
• Impact: Compromised security, potential data breaches, and unauthorized control over devices. The vulnerability affected a significant number of Netgear ReadyNAS devices globally. The potential for data theft and system compromise was high, leading to a considerable security risk for users.
• Resolution: Netgear released firmware updates and guidelines on securing ReadyNAS devices.
• Link: Netgear Security Advisory

10. Drobo NAS Devices and Vulnerabilities in Web Interface (2015)

• Vulnerability: Weak authentication mechanisms and potential command injection flaws in the web interface.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: The vulnerabilities in Drobo NAS devices’ web interface included weak authentication mechanisms and command injection flaws. Weak authentication mechanisms made it easier for attackers to bypass login protections, gaining unauthorized access. Command injection flaws allowed attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the device by injecting malicious input into web forms or URLs. These vulnerabilities were due to poor input validation and inadequate security controls in the web application.
• Exploitation: Attackers exploited these vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access and execute malicious commands.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Think of your NAS’s web interface as the login screen to access your secure storage. The attackers discovered flaws in the authentication process, making it easier for them to bypass security checks (weak authentication mechanisms). Additionally, they found ways to send harmful commands through the interface (command injection flaws), similar to tricking the system into executing their instructions. This allowed them to gain control over the NAS and perform malicious activities, such as stealing data or damaging the system.
• Brand Impacted: Drobo
• Impact: Risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and system compromise. The vulnerabilities affected many Drobo NAS users, putting their data at risk. The incident underscored the importance of robust web application security and strong authentication mechanisms.
• Resolution: Drobo released firmware updates to address vulnerabilities and advised on best practices for securing devices.
• Link: An article on 15 Different Drobo Vulnerabilities

What Have All of these NAS Security Incidents Have in Common?

All these NAS security incidents share several common elements. Firstly, they all involve exploiting vulnerabilities in firmware or software that was either outdated or had inherent flaws. Attackers took advantage of these weaknesses to gain unauthorized access, highlighting the critical importance of keeping firmware and software up to date. Many NAS devices were targeted because their users had not applied the latest security patches, leaving them vulnerable to known exploits. Secondly, weak or compromised authentication mechanisms were a recurring theme. Many attacks succeeded because of weak passwords, brute-force attacks, or poor authentication practices. This underscores the need for strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA) to provide an additional layer of security. Brute-force attacks and weak password policies allowed attackers to easily gain access to NAS devices, facilitating the deployment of ransomware, malware, or unauthorized command execution.

Lastly, the impact of these incidents was significantly exacerbated by the interconnected nature of NAS devices. Many users had their NAS devices directly connected to the internet without adequate security measures, making them easy targets for remote attacks. This highlights the importance of securing network access and employing best practices for internet-connected devices. Implementing proper firewall settings, VPNs, and avoiding unnecessary exposure to the internet can greatly reduce the risk of such attacks.

Conclusion – Lock it DOWN!

To protect your NAS from these types of attacks, it is essential to implement a robust security setup. Start by ensuring that your NAS firmware and all installed applications are always up to date. Regularly check for updates from the manufacturer and apply them as soon as they are available. These updates often include patches for known vulnerabilities that could otherwise be exploited by attackers. Strong authentication measures are also crucial. Use complex, unique passwords for your NAS device and any associated accounts. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible to add an extra layer of security. MFA requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access, making it much harder for attackers to compromise your device even if they manage to obtain your password. Securing network access is another key aspect. Avoid exposing your NAS directly to the internet. If remote access is necessary, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to create a secure connection to your NAS. Configure your firewall to block unauthorized access and only allow trusted IP addresses if possible. Disabling unnecessary services and ports can also minimize potential entry points for attackers. Regularly review and update these settings to adapt to new security threats. By following these recommendations and staying vigilant about security practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of your NAS device being compromised. Regular monitoring, prompt application of updates, and robust authentication and network security measures are essential to safeguarding your data and maintaining the integrity of your NAS system.

How to Automatically Get Updated When Synology and QNAP NAS Vulnerabilities are Reported

Pretty much ALL of the brands in NAS, Data Storage and Cloud services have these security advisory pages, but the idea of checking these pages manually (i.e. bookmark etc) every day, week or month is too much of a hassle for many. On the other hand, they all arrive with an RSS feed link that allows users to subscribe to updates BUT many users are not even aware of how to apply an RSS feed (it’s a complex XML feed of text that needs to be injected into an appropriate RSS feed client/agent – so yeah, hardly noob friendly). So, in order to make this 1000x easier, I have (and by me, I mean Eddie the Web Guy spent time on it and I made this article!) made this page that will be constantly updated with the latest vulnerabilities reported on the popular NAS brands and storage-related manufacturers. It is still being built (so more brands are being added) but it will allow you to just chuck your email address below (will not be used for profit or spamming etc) and then you will get an alter EVERY TIME a new security vulnerability is updated by the brands (this is automated, so it will appear here as soon as it appears on the respective security advisory page). Additionally, there will be links back to the brand/manufacturer site so you can find out more about individual exploits and vulnerabilities, how they work, what they do and (most importantly) give you a better idea of whether you should update your NAS/Storage system or not.

Click Below to Visit the FULL Article

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

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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  

Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US

    

 

WE LOVE COFFEE

As someone who has long relied on Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices for both personal and professional use, I’ve come to appreciate the convenience and functionality they offer. These devices provide a centralized and easily accessible repository for my important data, making them indispensable tools in my digital life. However, with this convenience comes a significant risk: the ever-present threat of cyberattacks. Over the past 15 years, we’ve seen numerous high-profile security incidents targeting NAS devices, underscoring the vulnerabilities inherent in these systems.

In this article, I want to take a closer look at some of the most significant security breaches that have impacted NAS devices from major brands like QNAP, Synology, Asustor, Terramaster, Western Digital, Netgear, and Buffalo. I’ll delve into each incident, exploring the specific vulnerabilities that were exploited, the methods used by attackers, and the devastating impacts on users and organizations. To make this information more accessible, I’ll provide user-friendly explanations that demystify the technical details, helping even those without a technical background understand how these attacks were carried out. Beyond recounting these incidents, I aim to identify commonalities among the attacks, highlighting recurring themes and valuable lessons we can all learn from. Finally, I’ll offer comprehensive recommendations on settings, setup options, and security measures that we can implement to protect our NAS devices from similar threats. By understanding these past incidents and adopting proactive security measures, we can better safeguard our valuable data and ensure the integrity of our NAS systems against future cyber threats.

Which NAS Security Settings Should You Focus On (TL;DR)?

Enhance your NAS device’s security by keeping firmware updated, using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, disabling unnecessary services, and using VPNs. Implement firewalls, IP access control, and regularly monitor logs. Ensure backups, use antivirus software, encrypt connections, set user permissions, and disable default admin accounts. Employ auto block for failed logins, utilize security scanning apps, limit client access with tools like Tailscale, disable SSH when not in use, and disable unused network protocols.

By implementing these suggested security measures, you can greatly enhance the protection of your NAS device against various cyber threats.

1. QNAP NAS Devices and QLocker Ransomware (2021)

• Vulnerability: Exploited the SQL injection vulnerability in QNAP Photo Station.
• CVE: CVE-2020-36195
• Vulnerability Explained: A SQL injection vulnerability occurs when an attacker can insert or “inject” malicious SQL code into a query through an input field or parameter. In the case of QNAP’s Photo Station, the application didn’t properly sanitize user inputs, allowing attackers to manipulate database queries. This manipulation gave attackers unauthorized access to the NAS system. They used this access to execute commands that should have been restricted, effectively bypassing normal authentication controls. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can provide attackers with full control over the database and, by extension, potentially the entire system.
• Exploitation: Attackers exploited a SQL injection vulnerability in the Photo Station app to gain unauthorized access and used 7-Zip to encrypt files.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine you have a house with a poorly designed lock on one of the windows (the Photo Station app). The attackers found this weak spot and used a special tool (SQL injection) to open the window and sneak inside. Once inside, they didn’t steal anything right away. Instead, they put all your valuable items into strong, locked boxes (using 7-Zip to encrypt the files) and took the keys with them. Now, you can’t access any of your valuables unless you pay them to get the keys back (paying the ransom). They demanded the payment in Bitcoin, which is like asking for payment in an untraceable form of digital cash.
• Brand Impacted: QNAP
• Impact: Thousands of QNAP NAS devices were affected, with users unable to access their files unless they paid the ransom in Bitcoin. Reports indicate that over 1,000 devices were infected within the first few days of the attack. The total financial impact on users was significant, as the ransom demands ranged from $200 to $1,200 per device. The attack caused widespread disruption, with many users losing access to critical data.
• Resolution: QNAP released security updates to patch the vulnerabilities and provided instructions for mitigating the attack.
• Link: QNAP Security Advisory
• Link: Official QNAP Response and Suggestions for Mitigation

2. Synology NAS Devices and SynoLocker Ransomware (2014)

• Vulnerability: Targeted vulnerabilities in DSM software, particularly outdated firmware and weak passwords.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: The vulnerabilities in Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM) software were primarily due to outdated firmware and weak passwords. Outdated firmware often contains known security flaws that have been patched in later versions, but if not updated, these flaws remain exploitable. Weak passwords are easily guessed or cracked using brute-force attacks, where attackers systematically try all possible password combinations until the correct one is found. These vulnerabilities made it relatively easy for attackers to gain unauthorized access to Synology NAS devices, especially those that were not properly secured.
• Exploitation: Attackers used brute-force methods and exploited known vulnerabilities in outdated DSM software to encrypt files and demand ransom.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Think of your NAS as a safe in your home. The attackers used two main strategies to break in. First, they used brute-force attacks, which is like trying millions of different combinations on the safe’s lock (password) until it opens. Second, they exploited known vulnerabilities in the DSM software, similar to using a master key that fits because of a flaw in the safe’s design (old software bugs). Once they got in, they didn’t steal anything outright. Instead, they locked everything inside the safe with their own lock and told you that you need to pay them (ransom) to get the new combination to open it.
• Brand Impacted: Synology
• Impact: Thousands of Synology NAS devices were encrypted, causing significant disruption and data loss. The attack highlighted the importance of updating firmware and using strong, unique passwords. Users reported substantial financial losses and operational downtime, with ransom demands typically around $350 to $400 in Bitcoin. This attack prompted many users to reevaluate their security practices and invest in better protection measures.
• Resolution: Synology released security updates and tools to help users check their systems and advised on strengthening security settings.
• Link: Synology Security Advisory
• Link: Official Synology Response and Suggestions for Mitigation

3. QNAP, Asustor, and Terramaster NAS Devices and DeadBolt Ransomware (2022)

• Vulnerability: Targeted unspecified vulnerabilities in NAS firmware.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: The exact vulnerabilities exploited by DeadBolt ransomware were not publicly disclosed, but they likely involved flaws in the NAS firmware or application software that allowed unauthorized access. Such vulnerabilities can include weak authentication mechanisms, unpatched software bugs, or misconfigurations that leave the system exposed to external attacks. These types of vulnerabilities can be exploited to gain administrative access, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands, including deploying ransomware.
• Exploitation: Attackers exploited vulnerabilities in the NAS firmware to gain unauthorized access and encrypt users’ files.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Picture your NAS as a highly secure filing cabinet. The attackers discovered secret weaknesses (unspecified vulnerabilities) in the cabinet’s lock system that weren’t known to the public. They exploited these weaknesses to sneak into the cabinet. Once inside, they didn’t take the documents but instead locked them in new folders with padlocks and took the keys with them. Now, if you want to access your documents, you need to pay the attackers to get the keys to these new padlocks. The ransom was typically requested in Bitcoin, a form of digital currency that is hard to trace.
• Brands Impacted: QNAP, Asustor, Terramaster
• Impact: Significant number of NAS users across these brands found their files encrypted and were unable to access them without paying the ransom. The DeadBolt ransomware was particularly widespread, affecting thousands of devices globally. Reports indicated that over 3,600 QNAP devices alone were compromised. The financial impact was substantial, with ransom demands often exceeding $1,000 per device. This attack caused major disruptions for both personal and business users, highlighting the critical need for robust security measures and regular updates.
• Resolution: QNAP, Asustor, and Terramaster released firmware updates and provided steps for users to secure their devices. They also advised users to disconnect their NAS from the internet when not in use and to implement strong security practices.
• Links: Our Article on ‘Are NAS Drives Safe?‘ which covers each incident in more detail + video links

4. WD My Book Live Devices Wiped by Exploit (2021)

• Vulnerability: Remote command execution vulnerability in My Book Live firmware.
• CVE: CVE-2018-18472
• Vulnerability Explained: Remote command execution vulnerabilities allow attackers to run arbitrary commands on a device from a remote location. This specific vulnerability (CVE-2018-18472) was due to a flaw in the My Book Live firmware that allowed unauthorized users to send commands to the device over the internet. These commands could be used to perform actions such as factory resetting the device, deleting all stored data. Such vulnerabilities are critical because they provide full control over the device to the attacker without requiring physical access.
• Exploitation: Attackers exploited the vulnerability to perform remote factory resets, wiping data from the devices.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine your NAS is like a digital storage box that holds all your important files. The attackers found an old flaw (CVE-2018-18472) that allowed them to send a command from far away (remote command execution) telling the box to reset itself to the way it was when it was brand new. This reset deleted all the data stored inside, similar to wiping everything off a computer when you restore it to factory settings. Because of this command, all your files were erased, causing significant distress and data loss.
• Brand Impacted: Western Digital
• Impact: Thousands of users reported complete data loss, causing significant distress. The attack was widespread, affecting users globally. Estimates suggest that tens of thousands of devices were potentially vulnerable, with a significant portion being affected. The total impact included not only the loss of personal and business data but also the trust in the security of Western Digital products.
• Resolution: Western Digital advised users to disconnect devices from the internet and offered data recovery services and discounts on newer products.
• Link: Western Digital Advisory

5. QNAP NAS Devices and eCh0raix Ransomware (2019)

• Vulnerability: Exploited weak passwords and vulnerabilities in QNAP firmware.
• CVE: CVE-2019-7192, CVE-2019-7193
• Vulnerability Explained: The eCh0raix ransomware exploited two primary vulnerabilities in QNAP devices: weak passwords and specific software flaws. CVE-2019-7192 and CVE-2019-7193 were vulnerabilities that allowed attackers to bypass authentication and gain administrative access to the NAS. Weak passwords compounded the issue by making it easier for attackers to perform brute-force attacks, systematically guessing passwords until they found the correct one. Once inside, the attackers could deploy ransomware to encrypt files.
• Exploitation: The ransomware used brute-force attacks and exploited known firmware vulnerabilities to encrypt files and demand ransom.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine your NAS as a secure vault. The attackers used two main methods to get in. First, they used brute-force attacks, which is like trying every possible combination to guess the password of your vault (weak passwords). Second, they took advantage of known software bugs (CVE-2019-7192 and CVE-2019-7193) that had not been fixed, similar to using a skeleton key that works because of a design flaw. Once inside, they locked all your files with their own locks and demanded money (ransom) to provide the keys to unlock them.
• Brand Impacted: QNAP
• Impact: Many QNAP NAS users found their files encrypted, leading to operational downtime and data accessibility issues. The attack impacted thousands of users worldwide, with ransom demands typically around $600 to $1,000 in Bitcoin. The financial burden on users and businesses was significant, as many had to pay the ransom or face permanent data loss. The attack highlighted the need for better password practices and timely software updates.
• Resolution: QNAP released firmware updates, advised on using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and updating systems.
• Link: QNAP Security Advisory

6. Synology NAS Devices and Bitcoin Miner Malware

• Vulnerability: Exploited outdated DSM software.
• CVE: CVE-2013-6955
• Vulnerability Explained: The vulnerability in Synology’s DSM software (CVE-2013-6955) allowed attackers to gain unauthorized access to the NAS devices. This specific flaw was related to inadequate input validation, which let attackers run arbitrary commands on the device. The attackers exploited this to install cryptocurrency mining software, which used the device’s resources to mine Bitcoin. This kind of malware doesn’t steal data but hijacks the system’s processing power, leading to reduced performance and potential hardware damage due to overheating.
• Exploitation: Attackers installed cryptocurrency mining malware on devices, utilizing system resources for Bitcoin mining.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Think of your NAS as a computer that runs software to manage files. The attackers found an old software bug (CVE-2013-6955) that let them sneak in and install a program that forces your NAS to work extra hard, like making a computer solve complex puzzles to create digital coins called Bitcoins. This process uses a lot of the NAS’s processing power, making it slow and possibly causing it to overheat, similar to how a computer might slow down and get hot if it’s running too many programs at once.
• Brand Impacted: Synology
• Impact: Reduced performance, potential overheating, and increased electricity costs for users. The attack affected thousands of Synology devices globally. Users reported significant drops in performance, and some devices even experienced hardware failures due to the increased load and heat. The financial impact included increased electricity bills and costs associated with hardware repair or replacement.
• Resolution: Synology released updates to patch vulnerabilities, remove malware, and advised on regular updates and security monitoring.
• Link: Synology Official Post and eTeknix Article

7. WD My Cloud Security Incident (2023)

• Vulnerability: Unauthorized access to Western Digital in-house servers.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: The security incident involved an unauthorized infiltration of Western Digital’s in-house servers, which managed WD My Cloud devices. Attackers exploited a vulnerability within the server infrastructure, leading to a breach that compromised sensitive data and potentially manipulated device functions. This vulnerability was linked to insufficient security protocols and inadequate monitoring, allowing attackers to access and control server operations without authorization.
• Exploitation: Attackers infiltrated Western Digital’s servers, compromising sensitive data and potentially affecting the functionality and security of WD My Cloud devices.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine the WD My Cloud as a secure vault where you keep your important files. The attackers found a way to break into the main control system of this vault (Western Digital’s servers). Once inside, they could access sensitive information and possibly control how the vault operated. This is like thieves breaking into the control room of a bank vault, gaining access to all the safes and the ability to manipulate the vault’s systems.
• Brand Impacted: Western Digital
• Impact: Compromised security, potential data breaches, and loss of user trust. The attack affected numerous WD My Cloud users globally, exposing sensitive information and causing significant inconvenience due to the disabled cloud services. Users faced operational disruptions, especially those who depended solely on remote access. The incident underscored the importance of comprehensive server security measures and the necessity for users to configure local access options as a contingency plan.
• Resolution: Western Digital implemented robust security enhancements, released patches to address the vulnerabilities, and restored cloud services once the environment was secured. They also advised users on best practices for securing their devices and data, including enabling local/LAN access to ensure uninterrupted access in case of future incidents.
• Link: Western Digital Advisory and Public Disclosure on Business Wire

(Click HERE or Below to Learn More about the WD Cyber Incident)

8. Buffalo NAS Devices and Persistent XSS Vulnerabilities (2017)

• Vulnerability: Multiple persistent XSS vulnerabilities in the web interface.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities occur when an application allows users to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by others. In Buffalo NAS devices, these persistent XSS vulnerabilities allowed attackers to inject scripts into the web interface that would execute whenever an authorized user accessed the page. This could lead to unauthorized actions performed on behalf of the user, theft of session cookies, and other malicious activities. The flaws were due to inadequate input validation and sanitization in the web application.
• Exploitation: Attackers injected malicious scripts into the web interface, potentially gaining access to sensitive information.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Think of your NAS’s web interface as a control panel you access through a browser. The attackers found a way to insert malicious code (scripts) into this control panel, which would run when you or others accessed the panel. This is like someone sneaking into a control room and installing hidden cameras to watch and capture sensitive information whenever you use the controls, potentially stealing passwords, personal data, or other sensitive information.
• Brand Impacted: Buffalo
• Impact: Risk of data theft and unauthorized access, compromising device security. The vulnerabilities affected many users globally, although exact numbers were not disclosed. The primary risk was the theft of sensitive information, which could be used for further attacks or identity theft. The incident highlighted the need for better web application security in NAS devices.
• Resolution: Buffalo released firmware updates to address XSS vulnerabilities and advised users to update firmware regularly.
• Link: Buffalo Security Advisory and CVE listings

9. Netgear ReadyNAS Devices and Remote Code Execution Vulnerability (2016)

• Vulnerability: Critical remote code execution vulnerability in ReadyNAS devices.
• CVE: CVE-2016-1524
• Vulnerability Explained: Remote code execution vulnerabilities like CVE-2016-1524 allow attackers to run arbitrary code on a device from a remote location. This specific vulnerability was due to inadequate input validation and poor access control in the ReadyNAS firmware. Attackers could exploit this flaw to send specially crafted requests that would execute commands on the device without proper authorization. This level of access could be used to steal data, modify configurations, or install malware.
• Exploitation: Attackers executed arbitrary code on affected ReadyNAS devices, leading to potential data theft and system compromise.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine your NAS as a secure storage unit. The attackers found a flaw (CVE-2016-1524) that allowed them to send commands to the NAS from a remote location, as if they had a remote control that could do anything. This meant they could make the NAS perform any actions they wanted, such as stealing files, changing settings, or installing harmful programs, without needing physical access to the device.
• Brand Impacted: Netgear
• Impact: Compromised security, potential data breaches, and unauthorized control over devices. The vulnerability affected a significant number of Netgear ReadyNAS devices globally. The potential for data theft and system compromise was high, leading to a considerable security risk for users.
• Resolution: Netgear released firmware updates and guidelines on securing ReadyNAS devices.
• Link: Netgear Security Advisory

10. Drobo NAS Devices and Vulnerabilities in Web Interface (2015)

• Vulnerability: Weak authentication mechanisms and potential command injection flaws in the web interface.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: The vulnerabilities in Drobo NAS devices’ web interface included weak authentication mechanisms and command injection flaws. Weak authentication mechanisms made it easier for attackers to bypass login protections, gaining unauthorized access. Command injection flaws allowed attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the device by injecting malicious input into web forms or URLs. These vulnerabilities were due to poor input validation and inadequate security controls in the web application.
• Exploitation: Attackers exploited these vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access and execute malicious commands.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Think of your NAS’s web interface as the login screen to access your secure storage. The attackers discovered flaws in the authentication process, making it easier for them to bypass security checks (weak authentication mechanisms). Additionally, they found ways to send harmful commands through the interface (command injection flaws), similar to tricking the system into executing their instructions. This allowed them to gain control over the NAS and perform malicious activities, such as stealing data or damaging the system.
• Brand Impacted: Drobo
• Impact: Risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and system compromise. The vulnerabilities affected many Drobo NAS users, putting their data at risk. The incident underscored the importance of robust web application security and strong authentication mechanisms.
• Resolution: Drobo released firmware updates to address vulnerabilities and advised on best practices for securing devices.
• Link: An article on 15 Different Drobo Vulnerabilities

What Have All of these NAS Security Incidents Have in Common?

All these NAS security incidents share several common elements. Firstly, they all involve exploiting vulnerabilities in firmware or software that was either outdated or had inherent flaws. Attackers took advantage of these weaknesses to gain unauthorized access, highlighting the critical importance of keeping firmware and software up to date. Many NAS devices were targeted because their users had not applied the latest security patches, leaving them vulnerable to known exploits. Secondly, weak or compromised authentication mechanisms were a recurring theme. Many attacks succeeded because of weak passwords, brute-force attacks, or poor authentication practices. This underscores the need for strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA) to provide an additional layer of security. Brute-force attacks and weak password policies allowed attackers to easily gain access to NAS devices, facilitating the deployment of ransomware, malware, or unauthorized command execution.

Lastly, the impact of these incidents was significantly exacerbated by the interconnected nature of NAS devices. Many users had their NAS devices directly connected to the internet without adequate security measures, making them easy targets for remote attacks. This highlights the importance of securing network access and employing best practices for internet-connected devices. Implementing proper firewall settings, VPNs, and avoiding unnecessary exposure to the internet can greatly reduce the risk of such attacks.

Conclusion – Lock it DOWN!

To protect your NAS from these types of attacks, it is essential to implement a robust security setup. Start by ensuring that your NAS firmware and all installed applications are always up to date. Regularly check for updates from the manufacturer and apply them as soon as they are available. These updates often include patches for known vulnerabilities that could otherwise be exploited by attackers. Strong authentication measures are also crucial. Use complex, unique passwords for your NAS device and any associated accounts. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible to add an extra layer of security. MFA requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access, making it much harder for attackers to compromise your device even if they manage to obtain your password. Securing network access is another key aspect. Avoid exposing your NAS directly to the internet. If remote access is necessary, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to create a secure connection to your NAS. Configure your firewall to block unauthorized access and only allow trusted IP addresses if possible. Disabling unnecessary services and ports can also minimize potential entry points for attackers. Regularly review and update these settings to adapt to new security threats. By following these recommendations and staying vigilant about security practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of your NAS device being compromised. Regular monitoring, prompt application of updates, and robust authentication and network security measures are essential to safeguarding your data and maintaining the integrity of your NAS system.

How to Automatically Get Updated When Synology and QNAP NAS Vulnerabilities are Reported

Pretty much ALL of the brands in NAS, Data Storage and Cloud services have these security advisory pages, but the idea of checking these pages manually (i.e. bookmark etc) every day, week or month is too much of a hassle for many. On the other hand, they all arrive with an RSS feed link that allows users to subscribe to updates BUT many users are not even aware of how to apply an RSS feed (it’s a complex XML feed of text that needs to be injected into an appropriate RSS feed client/agent – so yeah, hardly noob friendly). So, in order to make this 1000x easier, I have (and by me, I mean Eddie the Web Guy spent time on it and I made this article!) made this page that will be constantly updated with the latest vulnerabilities reported on the popular NAS brands and storage-related manufacturers. It is still being built (so more brands are being added) but it will allow you to just chuck your email address below (will not be used for profit or spamming etc) and then you will get an alter EVERY TIME a new security vulnerability is updated by the brands (this is automated, so it will appear here as soon as it appears on the respective security advisory page). Additionally, there will be links back to the brand/manufacturer site so you can find out more about individual exploits and vulnerabilities, how they work, what they do and (most importantly) give you a better idea of whether you should update your NAS/Storage system or not.

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WE LOVE COFFEE

If you have decided to invest in a network-attached storage device to host your Plex media server, then congratulations, you are close to owning one of the easiest and most user-friendly multimedia home server options out there with a GUI and features that rival the likes of Netflix and more. Although paid subscription streaming services can be very attractive and affordable in the short-term, in the long-term you end up paying for content you don’t own, a limited choice of content that changes regularly and even end up having to watch the occasion advert – on a PAID platform?! Many of us own hundreds of boxsets and movies at home in digital form, or in disc form that is waiting to be switched to a more streamable form, that you can simply load onto a NAS and then enjoy the benefits of Plex with. However, although the price of a solid NAS has come down substantially and the ease of setup never being more simple, there are still many common mistakes that people make when buying a NAS for a Plex media server the first time. These errors end up ich either costing more money to resolve or have to be endured until the next upgrade. In order to help you choose the right NAS for plex correctly the first time, I have compiled a list of the most common mistakes that NAS buyers make when choosing a solution. Some are small and some are large, but all of them are easy things to miss as you narrow down the choices. So here are 8 common mistakes made by Plex users when choosing their first NAS.

Extra Point! If you already have a Plex NAS users and having difficulty, I have already made several other guides on how to make the most of your plex NAS, as well as fix some common issues people encounter. You can click one of the articles below to open it in another tab and learn more. Alternatively, you can scroll to the bottom of the page and use the free advice section here on NASCompares.

Plex NAS CPU and Embedded Graphics

This is easy to miss and a common one as something that a number of brands will often try to skip over when talking about the hardware specifications of a NAS. There are many CPUs that are popular in the NAS world (Intel Celeron’s, Ryzens, Xeons and ARM v8s for example), more specifically targeted towards efficiency and long-term use. These processes, unlike gaming PCs, are designed for use for days, weeks and months at a time and do not have the luxury of liquid cooling systems or customised temperature control systems inside. Despite this, the range CPU used in NAS is still very diverse and unsurprisingly, many users will assume that a CPU with a high-performance speed in Gigahertz (GHz) and a larger number of cores will be best for Plex media server use. However, a processor that features embedded graphics, integrated graphics, on-board graphics or whatever they like to call it, will always perform better than a likewise processor without it in a single comparative playback. There are some remarkably affordable Celeron and Pentium processors on the market that can often outperform some Xeon processors at Plex media server performance, thanks to these CPU having an element of hardware onboard that is dedicated to visual and graphical structured data. A more powerful CPU may still ultimately handle more high-end media than a lesser Pentium or Celeron, however, it WILL use substantially more resources in order to do it. Always check to see if there is an embedded graphics CPU alternative before purchasing a non-GPU equipped CPU. I recommend an Intel Xeon-W series or the Intel i3/i5/i7 Core range processor.

Plex NAS and NOISE!

Something that I discuss a great deal on YouTube when discussing more powerful NAS solutions is the subject of noise. As soon as you start to consider more capable CPU NAS solutions, as well as consider larger enclosures for more capacity and scalability, you will have to prepare for the inconvenience of ambient noise. More enterprise drives with click, hum and wurr whilst in operation. Likewise, because more powerfully equipped CPU NAS feature passive cooling systems (rear fans and heat sinks), they often rely more on the chassis to assist the heat dissipation. The ultimate conclusion is that more high-performance NAS systems generally produce a large degree of ambient noise whilst in operation.

If you plan on installing your Plex NAS in an attic or suitably insulated location, this will be less of a concern. However, if you plan on being in close proximity to the NAS whilst enjoying the multimedia on your Plex server, the general background noise can be distracting at best and downright infuriating at worst.

Plex NAS and Appropriate Memory!

Most NAS systems that are recommended or advertised for use as Plex media servers will arrive with at least 2GB of memory. Considering that some people are able to run Plex media servers from as little as a raspberry pi, 2 GB of memory sounds like absolutely loads. However, the Plex media server component of this device is running on top of the NAS architecture and system software, which commands its own requirements with regard to CPU and memory utilisation. The result is that although 2GB of memory might seem like enough, it is highly recommended that you buy a NAS with 4GB of memory, or at least the ability to upgrade your available memory later in the lifespan of the system. The differences between DDR3 and DDR4 memory when it comes to Plex are pretty small ultimately, but the improved performance of a NAS with 4GB over 2GB is massive in terms of large media handling.

PLEX NAS Playback and 4K, HEVC/H.265 and HDR/10bit

Multimedia in 2024, especially 4K and 1080p high-definition media is not as straight forward as it once was. In order for video files to maintain incredible picture quality as the standards of playback client devices improve, multimedia file types and practices in their creation have had to evolve. This is made possible by the use of video compression techniques and superior format creation. Ultimately, that means that not all video files are created equal and high-end material, such as HDR and HEVC/H.265 require more advanced hardware to playback the media or software licences by the manufacturer in order to support the format.

The result is that some media files of this higher compression and format require powerful systems in order to be played, or in most cases will need to be automatically transcoded, to be reshaped into a more suitable format for client devices to play. Ways around this include utilising embedded GPU architecture on the CPU to get the job done or (as found in the case of QNAP) the ability to add licence support for the codex with additional smaller fees (in Cayin player). If the bulk of your media collection arrives in h264 or you plan on only using low to mid-level HD/4K content, you should be fine with something between an Intel Celeron and Intel Pentium.

Plex NAS – Freemium vs Subscription with Plex Pass

One of the main benefits and motivations of hosting a media server on a NAS is because most users like the idea of making one large payment at the beginning and never having to pay any long-term monthly subscription costs as the years go by, as found in Amazon Prime, Netflix and more. Indeed, Plex media server is available for your NAS and client devices (phone, TV, etc) for free. However, some people are still unaware that some of the premium and fully-featured functionality Plex is only available with additional monthly payments or a larger one-off lifetime membership with the Plex pass system. You do not need to this for general use, enjoying the scraping of metadata for making your media look good and even for sharing access to your collection with other users. However, features such as hardware transcoding, Live TV recording, connection with streaming services and improved content applications within Plex itself require you to pay. Ultimately most of these services can be ignored, but if you are using a NAS with embedded graphics or even a pre-installed GPU, then the option to use hardware transcoding is unavoidable.

Plex NAS and HDMI Out in 2024

Many users have seen that a number of systems arrive with additional HDMI ports and support of remote controls and peripherals. This means that rather than trying to push huge 4K multimedia files through your network (potentially maxing your bandwidth) to Plex client devices, you can output the NAS directly to a 4K TV and control it like any TV box. Up until early 2020 or so, this was a surprisingly easy and versatile option. However now in 2024, there are fewer Plex HDMI out applications available for common NAS brands, as well as reduced development by both Plex themselves and third-party developers to continue improving the existing tools. That means that although Plex over HDMI on a NAS is still possible, it is far less smooth and stable than it once was.

Do you even NEED transcoding on your Plex NAS?

Transcoding is a word that is thrown around a lot when it comes to streaming media privately from your own server. In its most basic form, transcoding simply means the changing of a multimedia file to a version that is better suited for the client environment. Maybe you own the latest Marvel movie in 4k UHD HEVC HDR/10bit format, which is great for your new OLED TV, but is huge overkill in terms of picture quality and file size to watch on your iPhone 7. So transcoding can allow Plex to change a file on-the-fly before it leaves the NAS and allows the client watching hardware to access a much smaller version, the still looks perfect on the device, but is far less taxing on its hardware and significantly reduces data consumption while streaming. Now, that is all fantastic and I have been making videos on the subject of transcoding for a number of years that help users understand how well individual NAS systems perform in different files types, but it still has to be noted that transcoding is not ESSENTIAL! If you intend to watch most of your multimedia on devices at home (ie on the same network as the NAS), plan on enjoying the content on high profile and prosumer devices made in the last year or two, OR don’t really plan on using metered or limited data connections when connecting with plex – then you really are not going to need transcoding at all! If you JUST want to watch your media and have the client hardware deices and connectivity to handle the hard/dense 4K media, then you can actually be quite conservative and opt for a I3/Pentium/Celeron NAS system, perhaps even a non-GPU equipped CPU like an Intel Atom or Ryzen Embedded Processor seen in recent releases (if you aren’t looking to go hardcode-4K).

Your Plex NAS needs to be connected to the Internet!

This is something that alot of first time NAS buyers who are considering Plex Media server (as well as NVIDIA Shielf, modded Mac Mini and Raspberry Pi users) do not quite know. When accessing your NAS multimedia with Plex and Plex Media Server, you do generally need to have the NAS and/or client connected to the internet. If you are accessing your device over the network (ie Fire TV near the sofa, NAS in the attic, both on the same network), you will still need the NAS to be connected to the internet. This is because Plex will need to ping it’s own servers periodically, update background processes, periodic metadata scraping and just generally requires an internet connection (especially for Plex Pass use). In fact, if you have the NAS on the network, but not connected to the internet (as you need to create, register and connect a Plex User Account to start connect the plex media directories), then you will not even be able to connect to the Plex server and complete the initialization. For many of us, this is not a huge deal, as the amount of internet-connected data used is tiny, or that they want to access Plex externally anyway means this was their plan all along. However, if you were hoping to use plex completely and utterly disconnected from the Internet and rely solely on the network for connectivity, you are likely going to encounter period accessibility issues and hurdles along the way.

And there you have it, 8 of the most comment mistakes and early hurdles faced by first time Plex NAS Buyers. If you are still on the fence, need guidance about the RIGHT solution for your multimedia needs (size, power, budget. etc), then use the free advice section below to message me and I will help you narrow down the very best solution for your needs. Bear in mind that this is ONLY manned by me, is not run for profit and is unbiased 1-to-1 advice, so I might take an extra day or two to reply. Thanks for reading!

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WE LOVE COFFEE

Although Western Digital still is an absolute powerhouse in the world of general storage media for several decades, I think it would be fair to say that in the last few years, their NAS systems (My Cloud, My Book Live, etc) have taken something of a PR beating. They were one of the very first ‘highstreet’ brands that provided affordable NAS solutions to home/business users alike, giving them a much more accessible and higher performing alternative to growing 3rd party clouds like DropBox, Google Drive and more. This was further bolstered by their software and system setups being as close to ‘turnkey’ (i.e. switch on and GO) as there is in the market – even now in 2024. So, what is the issue? Well, between their system software support declining on the oldest systems in their portfolio (not unusual, they can’t support things forever) and several examples off remote access attacks taking place on their systems – it was the start of alot of users starting to wonder if the grass was greener elsewhere for them and their data. This all came to a head in late March 2023 when Western Digital was cyber attacked and alongside reports of at least 10TB of stolen data and a $10B+ ransom (see references and story here), the brand disabled their cloud services as a security measure for around 10 days and remained quite tight-lipped throughout – despite a large number of affected users demanding answers and access to their data. The brand DID show users how to enable local access via an arguably convoluted means, but by then the number of users looking at their WD system and considering jumping ship increased insurmountably, which is possibly what brings YOU here to today’s article. If you have been using a WD My Cloud, WD Personal Cloud Home or WD My Book Live, you might have been completely unaware just how far modern NAS technology has moved forward! So, today I want to run through the best alternatives to WD NAS. This has been broken down into the following key areas – Software, Internal Hardware, Price, Value, Security, Lowest Impact, Plex, Connectivity and for Business. But first, we should probably take a moment and ask – is WD NAS still ok to use?

Is WD My Cloud NAS Still Ok to Use in 2024?

It is important to highlight that this article is not about me saying the WD My Cloud range is bad, because it really isn’t and it is still one of the best bang for your buck NAS solutions you can buy right now in 2024 – as well as being remarkably user friendly for the first time NAS user! Additionally, with the majority of WD solutions arriving with bundled hard drives, a simple streamlined user interface and considerably better high street availability than any other brand, they are still a good solution. However, like most technology, the evolution and expectations in what it can do in the eyes of buyers change rapidly and although most other brands have pushed software and hardware innovation to some incredible lengths, the WD My Cloud NAS range has remained quite steadfast in its refusal to adapt. Although WD My Cloud is sturdy, safe, robust and makes no promises it cannot fulfil, in terms of what you can do with it and how you can evolve the system in its lifespan is tremendously limited. This along with some third party app brands not updating their applications for the WD NAS OS system has led to an increasing lack of support of these popular software platforms. Ultimately, the majority of people reading this are owners of a WD My Cloud NAS that are now looking to upgrade to something with a little more future-proofing and modern innovation. However, don’t overlook the fact that you can still use your WD My Cloud NAS as another tier of your backup strategy, by synchronising over the network or internet with numerous application methods available from WD themselves and others brands. 

Better Alternative to WD and Netgear for Software – Synology and DSM 7.2

Unsurprisingly, if you have been researching the subject of NAS and thinking of upgrading from a WD My Cloud NAS, then the name ‘Synology’ and its incredible software will almost certainly have appeared on your radar. Although the brand is not as establish or steeped in years as Western Digital, Synology is still over 20-years old and has produced hundreds of NAS solutions in their portfolio. The main difference between Synology and WD when it comes to NAS software is twofold. The first major difference is the first party software on offer. WD and it’s NAS OS have surprisingly thin software add-ons available, with most of the system abilities being classed more as day-to-day services – RAID functionality, USB backups, synchronised backups and low-level account control. WD-OS is very functional but it has not changed much in the last 5-6 years in terms of innovation and most of its key abilities are considered rather rudimentary in 2024. Synology on the other hand includes its DSM (Diskstation Manager) software platform with every NAS, which is is the equivalent of an entire operating system comparable to a desktop OS that can be accessed via the web browser and numerous mobile apps. The Synology supports all of the services that the WD My Cloud does, but has also evolved every one of them into a central data ecosystem. The range of first-party services, applications and add-ons that Synology provide are extensive and cover surveillance, virtual machine deployment, intelligent multi-tier backups, bespoke email server deployment and more. Alongside this, DSM also provides applications that attempt to wrestle the user away from third-party desktop client apps for business. Examples include Synology Chat that serves as an alternative to Skype, Synology Office which serves as an alternative to Google Docs/Office 365, Synology Video Station is a popular alternative to Plex Media Server as well as an alternative to the slick and easy UI of Google Drive and Dropbox with Synology Drive. The evolution of Synology software where is genuinely unparallel and although QNAP is always getting closer, it is still going to be very impressive for the end-user when switching away from WD My Cloud NAS OS to DSM.

The second reason that the Synology NAS software platform is significantly superior to the WD NAS software is the support of third-party applications. WD NAS OS does have access to a small apps centre that includes easy installation of a few third-party applications. Although the majority of these have been all but abandoned in terms of updates and utility in recent years, one popular 3rd party application that most users a few years ago purchased the WD My Cloud NAS for was Plex media server. However updates on the Plex media server application on the WD NAS platform have slowed down and because this is a third-party application, you are heavily reliant on the manufacturer to develop updates for the WD NAS platform – something that has become increasingly less frequent from 2020 onwards. Synology NAS on the other hand supports significantly more third-party applications in it’s app center, as well as numerous custom apps that can be installed manually. There is certainly a few bits of bloatware in this application centre that can be overlooked, but nevertheless, there is still a good 30-40x third-party applications here that are worth your time and updated with more frequency than those found on the WD NAS platform. Equally, as the popularity of Synology NAS has increased, so has the amount of time that developers have spent on both the first and third-party applications for this platform and this combined with the improvements in mobile applications has led to the Synology NAS range being wildly superior to that of WD NAS My Cloud in software. Add to this that Synology also provides the option of BTRFS as a filesystem choice option with its file self-healing and lower resource-consuming snapshot creation, as well as the Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR) configuration for allowing mixed hard drive capacities, and the Synology NAS software is easily the preferred upgrade choice for those moving away from the WD My Cloud NAS platform for apps and services.

PROS of Synology NAS

• Easily the most intuitive and Usage browser-based GUI (award-winning DSM 7.1/7.2) – FULL DSM 7 Review HERE or DSM 7.2 Review HERE
• One of the best Surveillance NAS software solutions
• Most popular vendor for Mac users for it’s UI
• Incredibly feature-rich NVR software included, in Surveillance Station
• Includes Active Backup Suite – Enterprise level and fully featured Backup Co-ordination software
• Lowest Power Consumption vs other brands
• A large # of their systems arrive with m.2 NVMe SSD caching upgrade bays
• Quiet chassis compared with other brands
• Task specialised Ranges like ‘PLAY’, ‘PLUS’ and ‘J’ make buying easier
• The best range of first-party software, with Synology Office, Chat, Mail, Drive and more
• SHR and SHR-2 – also BTRFS available in most solutions
• Cloud Services available in Synology C2
• Desktop and Rack-mount options are available
• Best software for Home and SMB

CONS of Synology NAS

• Often the most expensive
• Recent Enterprise NAS Hardware has changed Compatibility in favour of Synology HDDs and SSDs
• Generally, Synology NAS has the lowest hardware power in their systems
• NVMe SSD Bays are for caching ONLY, they cannot be used for super-fast storage pools in MOST of their systems (recent releases support pools)
• More technically minded folk will need to dig a little to get to the nitty-gritty
• SHR is not available on Enterprise NAS Systems
• Network ONLY – no HDMI, Audio in/out, Thunderbolt, etc

Better Alternative to Netgear and WD for Price – Terramaster

As mentioned earlier, one of the appealing things for many first-time NAS owners that drew them to the WD My Cloud, etc range is that they are very well priced. If you want to buy a NAS from another company that still maintains this price point for the hardware, but includes some more software applications, supported services and modern features of NAS in 2024, then Terramaster might well be the best choice for you. Often considered the ‘budget choice’ in NAS for the last few years, their most recent hardware solutions have really upped their game – all the while maintaining a price point for the hardware that Synology and QNAP struggle to compete with (as they try to maintain a considerably more level hardware vs software package). Terramaster NAS do still arrive with an on-board 1st party software, known as TOS (version 5.1 at the time of writing) which though less evolved than Synology DSM or QNAP QTS, is still a noticeable degree more feature rich than the WD OS software – but with the added benefit of things like BTRFS/EXT4 file system choices, multi-tier backup managers, VM tools, AI-powered photo recognition and more. They even feature a fluid RAID system, known as TRAID, that is comparable to Synology Hybrid RAID and Drobo BeyondRAID that allows you to create a RAID storage pool using mixed drives – something that is surprisingly rare (and bloody useful for those that want to only half/partially populate a NAS, then add drives a few years later). You can find out more about the Terramaster TOS software in the video or article below:

Terramaster TOS Written Review (Will Open in New Tab)	Terramaster TOS YouTube Review

Moving away from the software though, it is the hardware of the Terramaster NAS series that (most) users are going to like. With the bulk of the systems in 2023/2024 arriving with M.2 NVMe slots, USB 10Gb/s, 4K HDMI 60FPS output and minimum 2.5GbE network ports (as well as quite a few affordable 10GbE solutions now), they also arrive with the same CPUs that their competitors use, but often as low as 25% cheaper. Then there is the chassis design of their solutions. Up until around 2020/2021, Terramaster solutions had a tendency to look a little dated. However, they have since introduced some fantastic looking 6-Bay, 9-Bay and even 12-Bay desktop solutions that capitalize on the efficient scaling and cooling of rackmount solutions, but in a desktop-designed chassis. A great example of which is in the NAS images below:

Terramaster still maintains it’s more affordable and budget reputation in the NAS industry, as well as their solutions often being the noisiest in the market by a few dB(A)s, but they have improved exponentially over the last few years and have closed alot of the gap between themselves and the bigger names in the NAS market, at least in the eyes of more cost-aware buyers. Finally, even if you LOVE the Terramaster Hardware, but do not want to use the software (as you have one already in mind or are put off by events last year when they were targetted by ransomware attackers), you can still use the majority of Terramaster NAS systems for TrueNAS Core, TrueNAS Scale, UnRAID and OpenMediaVault – Installing these Open-Source or Low-Cost/Resource NAS OS’s is super quick, can be easily reversed and done so without harming your hardware warranty. Overall, if you want to move away from WD NAS and towards something that is lower in price but still gives you more hardware to play with – Terramaster NAS is a solid WIN.

PROS of TerraMaster NAS

• Great Price vs Hardware
• VERY Fast Brand Evolution
• TOS 5 Software introducing Surveillance, FluidRAID (TRAID), AI-Powered photo Recognition and Isolation Mode
• Added a LARGE 2.5GbE selection of NAS in their portfolio
• Hugely Improved GUI and Client apps
• BTRFS available as file system choice
• Desktop and Rackmount options
• Similar Hardware to QNAP and Asustor, but at a Lower Price
• Straight forward range and classification
• Very Straight Fordwared Setup

CONS of TerraMaster NAS

• Very Few Mobile Apps
• Not quite as polished or fully featured as Synology/QNAP
• Despite Business targeting, very poor support of 10GBe till recently in the F2-423
• A little dated design
• Arrives with Warranty, but the turnaround is slower than many
• Have been targetted by Ransomware attacks in the last 2 years

Better Alternative to WD and Netgear NAS for Performance and Flexibility – QNAP

The performance of a NAS drive will often be dictated by both the internal and external hardware available. The quantity and number of hard drives you install inside will always provide something of a performance boost, but overall the performance will always be dictated by the primary components that the brand chooses to use and the external connectivity that a system features by default. Each one of the WD My Cloud range of devices are very efficient, make the most of the hardware inside and are designed for smooth running with little or no intervention by the end-user at any point. However, it has to be said that the hardware featured inside pales in comparison to that of QNAP alternatives in the last few years. With the WD My Cloud series largely concentrating on an Intel Pentium processor from 2015/16, alongside several ARM processors in 32-bit and 64-bit, they are certainly comparable to a number of much older QNAP NAS systems in the TS-X31K, TS-51D and TS-53D Series. Unfortunately, they soon get surpassed in comparison to the wide array of more modern processors available in QNAP desktop systems that can range from Pentium Gold, Newer Gen Celeron and Ryzen, to Intel Core i5, i7 and Xeon. This disparity also extends to the memory available, with most WD My Cloud systems arriving with between 1-2GB of memory that cannot be upgraded – whereas QNAP arrive with vast memory upgrade options and many models arriving with 4GB and 8GB by default. Then there is the fact that most of the QNAP NAS systems arrive with either 2.5GbE by default, very easy 5GbE/10GbE upgradability via USB and PCIe Cards and it is all uphill from there! QNAP provides their own QM2 card series which includes 10GbE ports, NVMe SSD multi-port cards and even combo cards that manage to give you a little of everything. All this together results in even mid-range/modest QNAP NAS systems having tremendous scope for higher performance than even the more high-end WD NAS right now.

The difference between QNAP and WD My Cloud is made even more clear when you learn that the majority of QNAP NAS systems released in 2024 ranges also include M2 NVMe SSD storage upgrade slots internally by default, that allow you to install SSDs that can be used for an area of superfast storage, tiered storage for data to be scanned and moved to the most appropriate media source or for caching to allow frequently access data to be copied over to the SSD for improved performance in the files that need it most. Although the use of SSDs for intelligent caching is by no means a new feature of NAS, it is still something that WD My Cloud NAS has yet to integrate and something that QNAP NAS has applied to the majority of their hardware portfolio. If one of your criticisms of WD NAS was that it felt underpowered and that your performance always felt like an uphill struggle, then most of the QNAP NAS range will absolutely blow you away by comparison. The software that all QNAP NAS arrive with, though not quite as fluid and user-friendly as the Synology DSM platform, is still really impressive, hugely customizable/flexible, arrives with many, many client apps for mobile/desktop devices and even arrives in a ZFS version for more powerful QNAP NAS systems – which in turn results in even higher performance potential. There is even a Thunderbolt NAS series from them that allows you to directly connect with the QNAP NAS on a few of their systems – allowing you to combine the ease of direct connectivity of Thunderbolt, with the multi-access nature of NAS. Finally we can highlight that a large number of the QNAP solutions also include an HDMI output and parallel GUI (so running alongside the normal NAS software, not just mirroring it over HDMI) that allows you to run many applications and tasks via a Keyboard/ouse and/or remote control setup. This can include surveillance (8 Camera Licenses included in the QVR Pro NVR/CCTV software btw), virtual machines, Multimedia with things like Kodi/Emby/Plex/Jellyfin and even use as a standalone PC! All this can be done and with the QTS/QuTS NAS software running in the background being accessed by hundreds of users and apps, all at the same time! They even produced one of the very first 8K PLEX native performing NAS I have ever tested:

So, with both the baseline level of hardware AND the upgradability of the internal hardware found in a QNAP NAS to be better than that found in WD My Cloud NAS, it’s a great upgrade for those that are interesting in improved internal performance in their next NAS purchase.

PROS of QNAP NAS

• Best Solutions for Plex Media Server in NAS
• Enterprise/Business Solutions feature ZFS
• 2.5Gbe, 5Gbe and 10Gbe Options
• Best Virtual Machine and Container Solutions in NAS
• NVMe SSD Bays can be used for Caching, Storage Pools or Tiered Storage Configurations
• Almost all range is metal in design, or a plastic but unique chassis
• HDMI and remote control included in most Media NAS devices
• Thunderbolt NAS options covering TB2, TB3 and even TB4 (TS-464)
• Two Surveillance Solutions (with 4/8 Camera Licenses included)
• The Best Backup/Synchronization solution in ‘Hybrid Backup Sync 3’
• Technical information far more readily available
• Lower price compared with Synology in terms of hardware
• Regularly updated software and Detailed GUI/APPs – FULL Review HERE
• Desktop and Rackmount options are available
• Much better business options and definitely the best for virtual machines

CONS of QNAP NAS

• A more android feel towards apps and stability means some users will be put off
• Lacking the BTRFS and SHR support of Synology
• Higher typical Power consumption
• Often a fraction noisier due to chiefly metal chassis
• Much larger range of devices can lead to confusion
• Most units arrive with 2-3 Years warranty, but longer will cost you more
• Have been targetted by Ransomware attacks in the last 2 years

Better Alternative to Netgear and WD Hardware Value for Money – Asustor

Of all the NAS brands I talk about, the one that all too often gets overlooked is Asustor. This is because they seemingly come ‘2nd’ or ‘3rd’ to most brands when it comes to the hardware, cost and software. However, they do make up for this by being excellent VALUE! By this, I mean that they provide a number of solutions that give you a little bit of what all the other brands provide – but in a single solution, rather than you having to choose between the others. Want BRTFS like Synology? Asustor and ADM has that. Want loads of desktop and mobile applications, plus an HDMI output like QNAP? Asustor has that! Want a price point that is low like Terramaster? They get pretty dare close with the Asustor Drivestor and Lockerstor series. They even provide some things that all the other brands do not too! Such as HDMI 2.0b for increased visual bandwidth handling, systems with FOUR Gen3 M.2 NVMe slots inside, dedicated 10GbE NVMe NAS’ and all the while arriving with minimum 2.5 GbE network ports and USB 3.2 10Gb/s. The Asustor software runs very smooth and although it lacks a few things (an AI photo application, 1sst party VM tool or a fluid/flexible RAID system like SHR/TRAID, etc), it IS very user-friendly and arrives with support of more 3rd party apps in it’s app center than most of the other NAS brands. Learn more about Asustor ADM below:

In the last year of two, Asustor has really innovated their ranges and alongside the 2nd generation of their Lockerstor series, effectively doubling down on the hardware of the Gen 1 (barely increasing the pricepoint too) and releasing several new cost-effective solutions in the Drivestor series too. This combined with improvements in their accessories and add-ons such as te 10GbE+NVMe SSD Combo card (the AS-T10G3), a 5-Port 2.5GbE switch and there is work on a dedicated home flash solution too. All of this, whilst the brand still manages to maintain a great ‘Value’ when compared to alternatives from Synology and QNAP. We should mention that they too (much like QNAP and Terramaster) were targetted by the Deadbolt ransomware group in 2022 and much like other brands, they immediately heightened the default security settings of their systems and made it much tougher/layered for novice users to open up ports on their system and give some apps remote access so easily. Overall, it is really hard to find better hardware value for money in pre-made/turnkey NAS than with Asustor solutions.

PROS of Asustor NAS

• Great Price vs Hardware – Often one of the lowest Prices Hardware solutions available
• Recent Lockerstor Gen 2 Releases are Incredible Value for the Hardware
• BTRFS Support
• First Brand to Adopt 2.5Gbe Commercially
• Nice software and still supports Kodi (unofficially), something slowly being pulled from other NAS Software stores – FULL REVIEW HERE
• Good selection of Home and Business NAS devices
• Early Adopter of HDMI 2.0a – so 4K at 60FPS and have their own HDMI GUI in Asustor Portal
• VM deployment and Container Support not dissimilar from QNAP, only not quite as flash
• Noise is pretty low on most home devices like the Nimbustor 2/4
• More Apps are available on the NAS app store, more than QNAP and Synology
• Product Naming is easier to follow than most brands

CONS of Asustor NAS

• Mobile Apps are very functional but appear a little sparse
• Many HDMI apps seem to be simplified web portals, rather than standalone applications
• Browser-based GUI does not feel quite as smooth as Synology DSM, but on par with others
• The Surveillance Center application feels very dated and less intuitive than most
• Have been targetted by Ransomware attacks in the last 2 years

Better Alternative to WD/Netgear for Connectivity – QNAP

The connectivity between the network-attached storage device and your local network hardware environment will massively dictate the speed at which your client devices can access your data for home or business use. Although there are a handful of more enterprise-level WD NAS solutions available, all of the WD My Cloud Feature 1Gbe with no means with which to upgrade that connectivity. Some NAS in the My Cloud range are a little better with dual 1Gbe RJ45 connections, but even then this is a small addition that in 2024 is less desirable than it once was. However, if you are looking for the best possible external connectivity in a modern NAS when choosing from or upgrading from a WD My Cloud NAS, then QNAP have easily the best selection of external connectivity on even their modest hardware solutions available.

Even on the 1/2-bay NAS solutions, you can find 2.5Gbe connectivity on a number of QNAP solution, which then scales progressively throughout their portfolio to multiple 2.5Gbe connections, 5Gbe connections and 10Gbe very easily while still maintaining a price point that remains compatible with that of even the biggest WD My Cloud solution. Then you have the fact that a number of QNAP solutions can be upgraded via PCIe or USB upgrade adaptors for more numerous external connectivity or at the enterprise level with larger bandwidth connections such as 25Gbe and 40Gbe of PCIe Gen 3 NICs for just a few £100s. Finally, there is the growing collection of Thunderbolt 3 equipped NAS systems from QNAP that allow a marginally more plug-and-play connection between the NAS and a thunderbolt 3 USB-C equipped client device. Ultimately QNAP NAS wildly outpaces the WD My Cloud range in terms of external connectivity and is arguably better for its external bandwidth than most NAS brands on the market today.

Better Plex Alternative to WD and Netgear – Synology and QNAP

As mentioned at the start of this article, many users purchased the WD My Cloud Pro NAS system as it was remarkably proficient at Plex Media Server, thanks to its choice of Pentium Processor and hardware transcoding in Plex as standard utilization. However, due to Plex not frequently updating the WD NAS Media Server application in line with how the platform has evolved over time, the WD My Cloud Pro PR2100 and PR4100 have grown increasingly less proficient at Plex Media Server, leading to guides and support walkthroughs being needed to bridge the gap more informally and this has been one of the largest driving force for users wishing to trade away from a WD NAS and onto something a little more modern. When it comes to buying a NAS that is primarily used for Plex media server, for the sheer simplicity and Performance it is hard to argue with a Synology or QNAP NAS as a better Plex media server. Although many would argue that a QNAP NAS would serve as a better Plex media server due to a higher class of CPU, the Synology NAS platform tends to get more out of the hardware at any given time in terms of efficiency which for most users and Plex media server is highly desirable for a stress-free, set up and forget architecture.

Here is my FULL Guide on Synology NAS for Plex (Click Below):

The performance of Plex media server on a QNAP or Synology NAS when compared with that of a WD My Cloud NAS though is not quite as clear-cut as you might like though. For a start, in order to take advantage of hardware transcoding on the NAS, you are going to need a paid Plex Pass, which may come as a real disappointment given that earlier revisions of Plex media server on the WD My Cloud allow Plex to use this CPU and hardware transcoding for free by default. However, the performance of this older Pentium in hardware transcoding is of a similar level to the software transcoding of the much newer Celeron found in the QNAP and Synology recent diskstation releases – so this advantage can be largely negated. One final point that, although not applicable to everyone is still worth considering when looking at a NAS for Plex media server, is how the system utilises the hardware resources available between both the Plex application, other software services and the system in general. Plex media server in its recent version consumes the majority of the hardware available on the WD My Cloud Pro system with even modest playback of 1080p media and is all but consumed by 4K files, leaving little or no resources for the rest of the NAS and it’s applications. The majority of Synology Plus Series Diskstation NAS systems, by comparison, thanks to using more modern hardware architecture and upgradeability in their design result in a smaller percentage of resource consumption buy Plex media server and therefore more fuel in the tank for other services too. If you are not planning on using hardware transcoding/encoding (i.e you have client devices that playback all your media natively with ease and/or you are only going to use the local network to stream), then you can start to look at non-integrated graphics NAS systems from QNAP and Synology too. Overall, though many of the other brands mentioned till now (Asustor, Terramster, etc) all arrive with similar hardware at each tier, I have regularly found that the Plex applications running in Synology DSM or QNAP QTS (either as the official app or as a container) jus run more efficiently on the QNAP/Synology platforms overall.

Better Alternative to WD and Netgear for Security and Scalability – TrueNAS

Let’s face it – 90% of users who are reading this article to move away from WD NAS are doing so for reasons of security. Or more precisely, they have lost faith/trust in their WD NAS’ balance of secure and reliable access. Aside from the storage of your data, another HUGE element of managing your NAS (TrueNAS or otherwise) is how well the system manages its network connectivity. This is such an important part of the perfect storage setup that it can often be the make-or-break of a system. This is especially true in 2024 as concerns of cyber security, ransomware, malware and remote access to your home/business network are extremely current! In the last 18 months, big turnkey/off-the-shelf NAS solution providers have been affected by ransomware and remote command injection-based attacks (Deadbolt, QSnatch, Dirty CoW, Dirty Pipe and more) and this has led to a large number of users rolling up their sleeves and deciding to move towards highly customizable/configurable solutions that allow them to craft a completely unique network security setup. Using TrueNAS to do this is arguably going to be a much more technical process BUT the range of customization and unique internal separate options that the platform offers is completely unique in many places and part of that stems from TrueNAS being built on FreeBSD (rather than Linux, as most other NAS platforms are built on, though there IS a Linux kernel TrueNAS option for those that want the benefits inherent to that platform in TrueNAS Scale). This allows a greater degree of partitional design that allows incredibly unique storage setups that brute force attacks and injected code methods can not overcome beyond a certain point. Eg If you think of TrueNAS on FreeBSD as a house, every single door in the house has a unique lock (multiple unique locks per door if you choose) and having keys to even a single door is just not enough to access everything. Even command-line/back-end access can be forbidden and for many that level of native isolation to the storage, backups and snapshots is damn near irresistible! Here are the elements of TrueNAS core that stood out for me in its network management and security.

Whether it’s compliance, performance, or economics, Federal, state and local governments have plenty to think about when choosing a data storage solution. TrueNAS provides various agencies with enterprise storage that is safe, secure, unified and scalable, which can be used with multiple applications. TrueNAS provides unrivaled data integrity protection, scales to 4PB, unifies block and file storage, balances price and performance, and uses the open source OpenZFS file system. Using TrueNAS eliminates the risk of deploying a complex storage infrastructure and reduces storage costs. The term JAILS is one that is thrown around a lot when people talk about security in the TrueNAS platform and for good reason. When it comes to installing a new third party tool/service that is not native to the platform, in TrueNAS you can install these additional components as completely contained areas of the system. These JAILS are excellent for securely and safely partitioning the system and services, that way in the event of troubleshooting, giving limited access to or quickly locking down a specific application or service. In essence, TrueNAS has two options to create a jail. Unusually for the platform, they even include a Jail Wizard (a hand holding guide, not a man in a big hat) which makes it easy to quickly create a jail. ADVANCED JAIL CREATION is an alternate method, where every possible jail option is configurable. There are numerous options spread across four different primary sections. This form is recommended for advanced users with very specific requirements for a jail. Many users might query why you would use a jail system such as this to run these contained storage/services, as opposed to a virtual machine or a container (as found more often in Linux). However, as jails run the FreeBSD operating system. These jails are independent instances of FreeBSD. The jail uses the host hardware and runs on the host kernel, avoiding most of the overhead usually associated with virtualization that requires hardware to be hard-locked or provisioned. The jail installs FreeBSD software management utilities so FreeBSD packages or ports can be installed from the jail command line. This allows for FreeBSD ports to be compiled and FreeBSD packages to be installed from the command line of the jail in a way that is considerably more configurable and more hardware efficient overall. That isn’t to say that TrueNAS ignores the versatility of Linux and containers, as their newer TrueNAS SCALE (Scale-out, Convergence, Active-active, Linux, Easy – doesn’t quite roll off the tongue, but covers the big advantages inherent to Linux kernel use) platform is built on Linux and takes advantage of those benefits too.

TrueNAS provides unrivaled data integrity protection for backup images by using the OpenZFS enterprise file system. OpenZFS is a next-generation file system in every regard, from its self-healing bit rot mitigation to its flexible snapshotting and replication. It guarantees that you recover the same data that was written. TrueNAS can also encrypt data and replicate it remotely. Many government organizations require encryption of at-rest and in-flight data, so TrueNAS supports disk-level encryption and encryption on data sent over the wire. TrueNAS remote replication (called TrueSync) can be encrypted; while the TrueNAS Web User Interface can be configured to work over HTTPS. Even its firmware updates are signed with a certificate issued by a public certificate authority. When you can’t leave security to chance, TrueNAS has you covered. Additionally, TrueNAS gives you flexibility in your choice of Big Data applications, while reducing the number of storage arrays needed. It is both a NAS and a SAN, supporting multiple block and file protocols. This gives you flexibility in your choice of applications, while reducing the number of storage arrays needed. Every common operating system, hypervisor, and application is supported. Instead of creating storage silos for your various applications, you can use one TrueNAS storage array. There is no avoiding that TrueNAS is an incredibly intimidating and HIGH learning curve platform to choose, especially when moving away from the chewable crayon and hand-holding presentation of WD My Cloud NAS systems – but in terms of security inside and out – very few platforms can challenge TrueNAS. Do keep in mind though that the system still gives YOU the power to make it insecure if you ignore the warning and/or allow 3rd party tools access. Ultimately, the power is in YOUR hands. You can learn more about TrueNAS Core (if you want the Linux version, that is TrueNAS Scale) in the review of the software below:

Better Alternative to WD and Netgear for Scale and Small Impact – UnRAID

You have likely heard about UnRAID in forums, community sites and server enthusiast discussion groups – but rarely on any premium platforms. This is because UnRAID performs a balancing act between a paid solution and Open-source. UnRAID is BY FAR the more resource lite server platform I will cover in this article and also has the potential to be BY FAR the cheapest too. UnRAID runs from a USB that you can connect to an existing system. That means whether you want to build a new PC/Server OR just want to re-use an old PC/Laptap/Mac Mini (maybe avoid that last one), you can simply put your UnRAID installation on a USB, connect it and boom – you have an UnRAID server that you can connect with over the network. It lacks alot of the bells and whistles of turnkey solutions like Synology and QNAP (all those client apps, 1st party apps and services in an app store, etc), but makes up for it by being fantastically efficient. It supports storage pools and volume type storage, but how the drives are held together and how redundancy/performance is managed is very different.

Unraid is unlike traditional RAID for a few reasons. In most RAID cases, when you write a file to a RAID array, more than one disk will spin up, and data is striped across several drives. So even a single file could exist on more than one drive. Because RAID uses more than one drive to read and write data, there is a performance benefit. RAID also offers a degree of safety. RAID5 can sustain the loss of a single drive, with RAID6 able to cope with the loss of two drives. RAID is still susceptible to catastrophic failure. If you were to lose two drives in a RAID5 array, you might not be able to get any of your data back. This is because the entirety of the data is dependent on the other disks. If you took out a single drive from a RAID5 array and plugged it into a computer, you won’t be able to see anything meaningful because the data is striped. A network share in Unraid can span multiple disks, but it manages the data quite differently compared to traditional RAID. Unraid can be configured to have up to two parity drives.

Similar to traditional RAID, this will prevent data loss if up to two drives die, keeping your data safe. There is a trade-off with storing the data in this method in that the performance for reading and writing data is limited to the speed of a single drive. However, Unraid mitigates this by allowing you to use an SSD as a cache drive. In Unraid, if one of your disks had to die, you could plug in another drive, and it would rebuild the data on that drive. However, if you were to lose more than one drive, you could still plug the remaining drives into a computer to retrieve what’s there. Another consideration with RAID is that the smallest drive limits the size of the array. This can limit how you can upgrade the size of a RAID array. Additionally, it may not be possible to add a single drive and increase the size of the array. The GUI might seem a little less graphical and easy to follow than your usual OS Desktop, but everything is well spaced out and you will find that things moderately intuitive once you get to grips with it.

In a direct Unraid vs Raid comparison, Unraid may not be as performant as traditional RAID, but it’s far more efficient. There is a massive reduction in power consumption because all the drives aren’t spinning to read and write data. Unraid is also efficient in how you can expand the size of the array. You can add a drive of any size, and it will increase the size of the array by that size, even if it doesn’t match the size of the other disks. As long as you ensure that your parity drive is equal to or larger than the biggest drive in your array, your data will be safe. The base configuration of an Unraid server requires only 2GB of RAM and a 1GHz processor. At idle, barely any RAM or CPU is used. Under regular usage, like a video playing and a file being written simultaneously, Unraid still barely bats an eye. This shows how efficient a basic Unraid performance is at managing its resources. One aspect puts people off Unraid: there is a cost attached to it. But it is excellent value for money, and there is a 30-day trial to try it for yourself and create your own Unraid NAS server. Moreover, Unraid has an excellent community forum that you can use for both support and advice on your build. One of the most significant advantages of Unraid is that it runs on regular PC hardware. Just keep in mind that the UnRAID software is not completely free. You can run it as a 30-Day trial, but you will eventually need to get a license key. You can find out more and get yourself an UnRAID License HERE – https://unraid.net/pricing?via=nascompares/

There’s no limit to how powerful you’d like to make your build as long as you’ve got the budget to match. If you require a NAS without virtualization or resource-intensive apps, you may even be able to repurpose an older computer that you own. All this said, if the idea of a DiY NAS build is too intimidating for you, you CAN use an existing NAS system and just convert it over to UnRAID very easily. It will need you to use a NAS with an HDMI out, at least 2GB of memory – but as you can see in the video below, it is very easy to run UnRAID on even a moderately priced NAS and end up with a fantastically capable UnRAID system indeed. Overall, although UnRAID cannot match the throughput externally/internally of the rest of the turnkey NAS solutions (or even compete with TrueNAS Core/Scale with ZFS), it allows you to reuse your existing hardware that you might have at home and set up an UnRAID NAS INCREDIBLY affordably!

Better Alternative to WD/Netgear My Cloud for Business – Synology

When network-attached storage was in its infancy, it was presented as a means for prosumers and small-medium business users to have an alternative to subscription-based Cloud services (DropBox, Google Drive, etc) with improved customizable security and larger capacities. Due to the nature of data and how it is the centre of all kinds of business in the last few decades, the idea of a business having its own server is hardly a new thing, given the importance of data retention and GDPR. However, the expectations from a business in what a server can do at even the most modest level have grown rapidly and a simple hard drive connected to the internet will simply not do! As mentioned earlier, the software available on the WD NAS OS platform is starting to look a little underwhelming in 2024, whereas Synology has invested heavily in software development for the NAS systems likely more than any other brand. Now, to cover the WHOLE Synology software and services that are included with their 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 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 a Synology 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 most PLUS or XS series devices, they supports practically EVERYTHING (with the exception of SHR in the case of the XS, SA and UC series). If you want to learn about the latest version of DSM 7 and the software and services that are included with their systems, watch my FULL review below (alternatively, you can read the DSM 7 Full Review HERE):

Needless to say, most Synology NAS will support the bulk of DSM applications, features and services. Longtime followers of Synology (and NASCompres) will be familiar with the huge range of first-party applications and features of DSM, but for those less familiar, here are some highlights:

Synology Office – Create documents, spreadsheets, and slides in a multi-user environment. Real-time synchronization and saving make collaboration a breeze.

Synology Chat – Aimed at businesses, Synology Chat is an IM service that transforms the way users collaborate and communicate.

Synology Drive – Host your own private cloud behind the safety of your NAS with 100% data ownership and no subscription fees. Drive has become one of the premier applications of DSM and allows uses to create intelligent shared team folders that support versioning, file streaming+pinning, encryption, Windows AD support (soon) and native file system support with Windows and macOS.

Synology Photos – Manage your photos and videos with deep-learning algorithms that automatically group photos with similar faces, subjects, and places. Designed after the merger of Synology Photo Station and Moments, it also includes tailored folder, sharing and categorization features to help photographers manage their photos and share them with clients for feedback or business development.

Synology Calendar – Stay on track, share calendars, and schedule meetings, while ensuring sensitive information remains safely stored on company premises.

Synology Active Backup for Business (ABB) – Consolidate backup tasks for virtualized environments, physical servers, and personal computers, and rapidly restore files, entire machines, or VMs – license-free. This software also arrives as a specialised Microsoft Office 365 and Google Workspace platform to sync with those platforms and allow a bare metal tier to your cloud office services

Synology Hyper Backup – Backup your NAS safely and efficiently to multiple destinations with deduplication, integrity checks, compression, and versioning.

Synology Surveillance Station – Safeguard your business, home, and other valuable assets with reliable video surveillance tools. With improved AI services being accessible thanks to Synology BC500 and TC500 Cameras (which arrived in mid 2023 and a new CC400W Camera slated for mid 2024). Additionally, you can connect this platform with Synology’s cloud platform to use ‘C2 Surveillance’ and bolster the odds of recordings being maintained in the event of accidental/malicious damage to your surveillance system.

Synology Virtual Machine Manager (VMM) – An intuitive hypervisor that supports Windows, Linux, and Virtual DSM virtual machines. Its powerful disaster recovery tools help users achieve maximum service uptime.

Synology High Availability – Synology High Availability (SHA) combines two Synology NAS servers into one active-passive high-availability cluster, alleviating service disruptions while mirroring data.

Synology Central Management System (CMS) – Synology CMS allows you to manage multiple Synology NAS servers quickly and conveniently from a single location.

Synology Video Station – Manage all your movies, TV shows, and home videos. Stream them to multiple devices or share them with friends and family.

Synology Audio Station – Manage your music collection, create personal playlists, stream them to your own devices, or share with family or friends.

Synology File Station – Manage your Synology NAS files remotely through web browsers or mobile devices. This tool allows complete file management and contains all the features and services of your own native file management platform (archiving, extracting, Copy, Cut, Paste, Sharing, native file format opening, integration with the rest of the Synology applications, property/metadata access, etc)

Should I Choose Synology, QNAP, TrueNAS, Terramaster or Asustor NAS?

So, if you have reached this far in the article, you are likely wondering whether you should switch from a WD My Cloud NAS towards either a Synology or QNAP NAS? It’s a valid question, as both brands (especially in recent years) managed to carve their own very distinct design, the priority of build and available utilities for different end-users. Synology will always be the software-optimized choice over hardware (60/40) and manages to get the very most possible out of comparatively less hardware in their own first-party applications. QNAP NAS on the other hand has more of a hardware focus (again 60/40) which means that they have a better 1t and 3rd party hardware balance when it comes to using their system in your environment. Synology is a solution that wants you to do things its way and in return gives you a smooth if safe and predictable outcome. QNAP NAS manages to be exceedingly customizable and adaptable and for those who take the time to tweak it, setup it up from scratch or adapt it to their 3rd party environment, can achieve much better results overall. Below is two videos that focus on each brand and key consideration on QNAP and Synology before you buy. Take a look:

Choosing A NAS – Need More Help?

So, those were the key considerations for those looking to buy a new NAS or looking to upgrade/migrate from an older NAS Drive. However, there is still so much that you may need to know to range from operating system compatibility, how to connect the NAS in the best way, ideal software and the best backup methods. If you still need help choosing the NAS solution for your needs, use the NASCompares free advice section below. It is completely free, is not a subscription service and is manned by real humans (two humans actually, me and Eddie). We promise impartial advice, recommendations based on your hardware and budget, and although it might take an extra day or two to answer your question, we will get back to you.

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The appeal of having your very own private cloud space, accessible much more securely and faster than the average third-party cloud service, is undeniable. Purchasing a Synology DS923+, DS423+, DS920+ or DS420+ NAS to centralize all your data, granting true control over who accesses your data, as well as how, when, and where it’s distributed, has long been a desirable alternative to services like Google Drive and Dropbox. Whether you’re a home user or a business user, it’s clear that a NAS comes with its own unique downsides. Two of the most frequently mentioned issues are that the systems can be noisy when in operation, which can become annoying if you’re in close proximity. Additionally, keeping the system on 24/7 results in the generation of a significant amount of heat, necessitating increased active cooling through fans, which inevitably leads to even more noise. The level of noise generated by your NAS varies from user to user, affected by factors such as the scale of the system’s storage capacity, the specific drives used, and the extent of its utility. However, there are several clever hacks and modifications you can apply to a broad range of Synology 4-Bay NAS devices to reduce operational noise and improve system temperature, ensuring your device runs cooler and quieter in the future. In this guide, I will show you step-by-step how to apply these modifications in around 20 minutes.

Before You Start – Disclaimer and Important Considerations

Before following this step-by-step guide to improve the noise and cooling performance of your Synology NAS, it’s crucial to understand whether your system will benefit from these modifications, as well as the potential risks to your support and warranty from Synology. So, before we begin, please keep the following in mind:

• Synology does not endorse physical or software modifications to their systems using non-Synology components or methods not approved by Synology. The changes and suggestions detailed in this guide do not align with the recommended maintenance and use of your Synology NAS. By following these steps, you will almost certainly void your hardware warranty. Consider this carefully if you rely on Synology’s support, warranty, and guarantees.
• Many users are mistaken about what components within their Synology NAS are generating the ambient noise during operation. It’s important to realize that in many high-use, high-capacity setups, the primary source of noise is not the Synology unit itself but the professional and enterprise-class hard drives. These drives, designed for larger capacity and business use, incorporate more platters and actuator movements and are inherently more enterprise-grade in their architecture. As a result, most of the noise comes from within the hard drives themselves, making it nearly impossible to eliminate this noise from any storage system. If your system uses hard drives larger than 10 to 12 terabytes, then the noise during heavy/active use is likely emanating from the drives. While the modifications in this guide can help mitigate some issues (e.g., the Velcro tray modification will reduce vibration), noisy hard drives will remain noisy, regardless of any changes made to the NAS enclosure. Keep this in mind before investing in accessories for the modifications suggested in this guide.
• Lastly, not all Synology units are built the same. The physical size of the DiskStation or RackStation, the number of fans, the size of individual fans, and the placement of storage drives can vary significantly. While you can compare systems with the same number of hard drive bays and enclosure size for modification purposes, you cannot apply the same modifications to larger or smaller models. For instance, the DS224 Plus features a single rear-mounted fan and twin hot-swappable ‘click and load’ bays within a largely plastic enclosure, whereas the DS420j is mostly metal, features internal-only, non-hot-swappable trays, and two rear fans smaller than those found in most other NAS systems. Ensure you are purchasing the correct size fans for your specific Synology NAS model.

That’s it! Let’s get started on upgrading the cooling and reducing the noise on your Synology NAS.

BACKUP, BACKUP, BACKUP!

Ensure you have a backup of all the data stored on your Synology NAS. This can be on another NAS device, a connected USB device, or a cloud service. Although the risk of data loss from the modifications you’re about to make is exceptionally low, you will be handling your storage media and ejecting and inserting drives, which could lead to accidental mishandling. Therefore, having a backup of your data before proceeding is crucial.

FULL GUIDE TO SYNOLOGY BACKUP OPTIONS IN THE LINK BELOW (opens in new tab):

Next, safely power down your Synology NAS system via the controls in DSM (DiskStation Manager). After the system has fully shut down, allow 3 to 4 minutes for the storage media to completely spin down.

Now, disconnect the power, network connectivity, and any other accessories or peripherals connected to the Synology system.

Carefully remove each hard drive from the Synology unit, placing them safely to one side. It’s important to avoid jostling these drives while you’re making modifications to your system. If you have internal M.2 NVMe SSDs inside the system, these can remain in place. Additionally, try to keep track of which bay each hard drive is removed from so you can ensure they are returned to their correct slots. Although modern versions of Synology DSM can still identify drives if they are placed in different slots, it’s best not to risk potential complications.

Synology NAS Velcro Hard Drive Mod Guide Start

As mentioned earlier, a significant source of ambient noise from a Synology NAS during operation comes from the internal hard drives. As they spin, they cause vibrations throughout the NAS. The larger the drive’s capacity, the more ambient vibration and access noise it tends to produce. This is where the Velcro modification for the individual trays comes into play. The goal is to neutralize the vibration caused by these drives, preventing it from being transmitted through the chassis of the Synology NAS. There are two methods to use Velcro within the Synology NAS, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to only use the soft, fuzzy side of the Velcro.

Velcro Method 1

One approach is to place strips of Velcro into the individual SATA storage slots of the Synology NAS.

It’s optional to place a Velcro strip at both the top and bottom of each slot. A single piece of Velcro at the base of the drive bay should be sufficient to neutralize the vibration traveling through the system, though adding a second piece at the opposite end can enhance stability. These modifications will not increase the system’s operating temperature but may make reinserting the drives slightly more challenging. This is expected, as the Velcro strips are designed to secure the drive more firmly in place.

Velcro Method 2

Velcro method 2 is a little bit more surgical and requires a pair of scissors and the removal of the drives from each of the trays.

Once you have removed the drive from each tray, you need to place five individual squares of the soft side of the Velcro in each of the areas displayed in the images. Place four squares, two on each side, at the points where the Synology tray clips traditionally go into the holes of the drive as shown here.

Then, also add an additional Velcro square on the inside of the tray where the back of the drive meets the handle of the tray, as shown in the image below.

Once you have done this, reintroduce the hard drive into the tray. You may notice that aligning the clips into the drive is a little harder this time around and this is because the additional fifth Velcro square is wedged between the drive and the tray. This is normal and just requires a little bit more pushing to apply the clips into the tray and secure the drive.

Now, regardless of which method you chose to apply the Velcro absorption panels into the Synology storage area, you may now reintroduce each of the drives into the Synology NAS. Once again, be aware that the drives will go in with a little more friction than previously, and this is part of the way in which the vibration of the drives will be decreased during operation. The tray should still neatly connect with the back SATA connection.

There you go, you now have the means to hugely reduce ambient vibration noise from the drives traveling through the Synology NAS system. If you are especially concerned about vibration and the Synology NAS creating increased ambient noise, you may also introduce a foam panel underneath the Synology unit, which will further decrease any vibration being caused between the network-attached storage device and the desktop that you deploy the system onto.

Next, let’s discuss how to swap out the default fans on the NAS for faster and lower noise alternatives.

Synology NAS Noctua Fan Modification Guide Start

The first thing you need to do is ensure that the hard drives are completely disconnected from your Synology NAS, as you will be disassembling the system and rotating it at certain points which can all add up to drives being jostled and potentially damaged. So make sure that all storage media has been removed from the Synology NAS before proceeding.

Next, rotate the Synology NAS and remove the two screws located on the left-hand side of the chassis as indicated in the image below:

Once you have removed these two screws, the chassis should slide apart into two pieces. If the two pieces do not neatly slide apart, then gently place your hand on the inside of the storage area and apply a small amount of pressure in the area shown in the image below:

This should allow the larger area of the external casing to come off neatly, allowing you full access to the internal metal SATA cage and internal components.

Next, you need to make your way to the rear of the NAS and remove the two black clips that hold the individual fans in place at the top of the SATA cage.

Next, head to the side of the Synology NAS frame and gently remove the fan power clips from the internal board. They are white clips that you can see in the image below:

Next, return to the rear of the Synology NAS chassis and remove all eight of the screws indicated below, as these hold the default Synology fans in place.

The fans should neatly slide out from their cavity in the rear of the Synology NAS.

While doing this, do take note of the direction of the fans, as well as their alignment, which shows you exactly where the cables feed into the base of the Synology NAS cavity for the fans.