Full Configuration of a New Synology NAS (DS 923+)

Introduction

• Setting up a new Synology NAS from scratch.
• Video is lengthy, timestamps in the description for easier navigation.
• Goal: Walk through the configuration process and improve understanding of DSM (DiskStation Manager).

Initial Setup

• Plug in hard drives and lock them for protection.
• Optional upgrades:
  • Memory can be upgraded to 8 GB on certain models (e.g., DS 923+).
  • Network interface card (NIC) can be upgraded to support 10 Gbit.
• Maximum transfer speed with 1 Gbit NIC is about 125 MB/s.
• 10 Gbit NIC increases potential speed significantly.
• NVMe drives for caching or storage pools.

Finding the NAS on the Network

• Use find.sony.com to locate the NAS.
• Alternative options: Synology Assistant, IP Scanner.
• Follow prompts to connect to the NAS and agree to terms.
• Important: Data on drives will be deleted during setup.

DSM Installation

• After installation, the NAS will reboot.
• Configure user account and device name.
• Enable automatic updates for DSM and install packages.

Creating Storage Pools and Volumes

• Select storage pool type: SHR (Synology Hybrid RAID), RAID 1, RAID 5 or RAID 6.
  • SHR allows mixed size drives; RAID requires same size drives.
  • RAID 1 mirrors data; RAID 5 allows one drive failure; RAID 6 allows two.
• Choose between Btrfs or EXT4 file systems.
  • Btrfs recommended for snapshots and better data integrity.
• Optional: Volume encryption and volume size settings.
• Set up data scrubbing for ongoing health checks on the storage pool.

Configuring Users and Shared Folders

• Create users and groups with permissions based on shared folders.
• Utilize a shared folder hierarchy for organization.
  • Example: Media folder with subfolders for TV shows, music, etc.
• Enable recycle bin for shared folders to prevent data loss.

Accessing the NAS

• Access NAS via File Station or SMB.
• Configure static IP for reliable access.
• Security measures: disable admin account, enable auto-block for failed login attempts, and set up two-factor authentication.

Data Protection

• Snapshots: Freeze shared folders at a point in time for data recovery.
  • Configure snapshot schedules and retention policies.
• Hyper Backup: Backup NAS data to external drives or cloud storage.
  • Set up backup schedules and client-side encryption for extra security.

Remote Access Options

• VPN for secure remote access.
• Quick Connect: Easy setup through Synology account.
• DDNS for tracking external IP address.

Notifications and Monitoring

• Set up notifications for system events, drive health, and backups.
• Regular checks on storage health and configurations.

Conclusion

• NAS configured with best practices and understanding of DSM improved.
• Explore additional features and applications as needed.
• Further resources and tutorials linked in the description.