What Is Synology NAS and Why You Need It?

Synology NAS is a network storage computer running the DiskStation Manager operating system. It connects directly to your router and manages files across RAID-protected drives. Every device on your network then accesses data simultaneously while automatic backups run continuously without manual intervention.

Choosing the right supplier determines system uptime during critical failures. Qatar businesses need local stock, Arabic-speaking support, and same-day replacements. Unfortunately, international suppliers create week-long delays when hardware fails or firmware needs urgent updates for compliance.

Synergy Technology Solutions WLL delivers Synology systems from our Salwa Road warehouse with same-day deployment across Doha. We stock DS418, DS918+, DS1819+, and XS Series with immediate availability. 

What Is Synology NAS? What is the purpose of it? 

Synology NAS is a specialized network computer that runs DiskStation Manager. DSM is a Linux-based operating system. It’s not just software. But it’s a complete data management platform.

Here’s what makes it different from a regular external drive. An external drive plugs into one computer. A NAS connects to your entire network. Every device in your home or office can access it simultaneously.

The hardware includes a processor, RAM, and slots for multiple hard drives. These aren’t ordinary components. They’re designed to run 24/7 without breaking down. The processor handles file transfers, backups, and even runs applications like surveillance systems or media servers.

DSM transforms these raw components into something powerful. It manages your files across RAID configurations. RAID protects your data if a drive fails. DSM also handles automatic backups, user permissions, and encryption. You get enterprise-grade security without needing IT expertise.

How Does a Synology NAS Work?

A Synology NAS connects to your network and processes file requests in a way that makes remote storage feel local, fast, and reliable.

Step 1: Network Connection & System Boot

First, connect the NAS to your router using an Ethernet cable. The router assigns an IP address automatically. The NAS then boots Synology’s DSM operating system and exposes a browser-based interface accessible from any device on the same network.

Step 2: Storage Pool & RAID Setup

During setup, the NAS groups multiple hard drives into a single storage pool. RAID or Synology Hybrid RAID distributes data across drives with redundancy. If one drive fails, the system rebuilds the data using parity information without stopping access.

Step 3: File System & Data Protection

The storage pool is formatted using the Btrfs file system. Btrfs checks every file for corruption using checksums and supports snapshots. These snapshots track changes only, allowing fast recovery from accidental deletion or ransomware attacks.

Step 4: Network File Access

The NAS shares data using standard network protocols. SMB serves Windows systems, NFS handles Linux, and AFP or SMB supports macOS. Each protocol translates file actions into network requests, so files behave like local storage on user devices.

Step 5: Background Monitoring & Automation

Once running, the NAS operates independently. It monitors disk health, temperatures, and system load in real time. Scheduled backups run during off-hours, and alerts trigger automatically if hardware or environmental thresholds are exceeded.

Core Features of Synology NAS Explained

Below are the core features that matter in real business environments, especially for SMBs and growing teams. Each one exists because of problems I’ve seen repeatedly on the ground.

1. Centralized File System Architecture

Synology NAS acts as a dedicated file server using SMB/NFS protocols. All users interact with one authoritative data source, eliminating version conflicts, duplicated storage, and uncontrolled local file copies.

2. RAID & Synology Hybrid RAID Logic

Drives operate as a fault-tolerant array, not individual disks. SHR abstracts RAID complexity, allowing mixed drive sizes and online expansion while maintaining redundancy and continuous availability.

3. Btrfs File System with Integrity Checks

Every file write generates checksums verified during reads. Silent data corruption gets detected automatically. If corruption appears, the system repairs it using redundant data instead of passing errors to users.

4. Snapshot-Based Recovery Engine

Snapshots record block-level changes, not full copies. This enables near-instant rollback of folders or entire shares. Ransomware encryption becomes reversible without restoring full backups or halting operations.

5. Identity-Based Access Control

Access ties directly to user identities, not devices. Permissions apply at folder and file levels, enforced by the NAS kernel. This prevents accidental deletion and internal data exposure across departments.

6. Policy-Driven Backup Automation

Backup tasks run based on defined policies, not user behavior. Systems back up incrementally, verify integrity, and retain versions. Recovery remains possible even if the original device is compromised.

7. Continuous Health & System Telemetry

The NAS continuously reads SMART data, thermal sensors, and I/O latency. Early warning alerts trigger before failures escalate, allowing planned maintenance instead of emergency downtime.

Top Reasons Why You Need a Synology NAS

As files, users, and compliance demands grow, a Synology NAS gives Qatar businesses structured storage, built-in protection, and predictable control without adding operational complexity.

1. Centralized Storage

A Synology NAS replaces scattered file locations with a single business file server. Everyone works from the same data source, which reduces duplication, prevents version conflicts, and improves accountability across teams.

2. Data Ownership

On-premise storage keeps business data inside your organization, not third-party cloud platforms. You control access, retention, and compliance, which matters for sensitive data and client confidentiality in Qatar.

3. Hardware Fault Tolerance

RAID and Synology Hybrid RAID protect against disk failure by distributing data across drives. When a drive fails, systems stay online while data rebuilds automatically in the background.

4. Ransomware Recovery

Snapshot technology records file changes at the block level. If ransomware encrypts files or users delete data, recovery happens instantly without restoring full backups or interrupting daily operations.

5. Automated Backups

The NAS runs scheduled backups for PCs, servers, and cloud accounts. Backups verify data integrity and retain versions, removing dependency on users remembering to protect critical business data.

6. Secure Remote Access

Encrypted remote access allows employees to work from offices, homes, or project sites. Files behave like local storage while remaining protected by identity-based permissions and access controls.

7. Predictable Costs

Unlike cloud subscriptions, Synology NAS involves a one-time investment. Storage expands as needed without recurring fees, making long-term costs easier to forecast as data volumes grow.

NAS vs Cloud Storage: What’s the Real Difference?

NAS gives you ownership and control. In contrast, the cloud gives you convenience and dependency. A NAS stores data inside your business and works on your network. But the cloud storage hosts your data externally and charges ongoing fees for access and growth.

How Does Data Protection Work on Synology NAS?

Data protection from cyber threats on a Synology NAS starts at the disk layer and moves upward. Data first writes across multiple drives using RAID or Synology Hybrid RAID, ensuring redundancy. Above this, the Btrfs file system validates every read using checksums, detecting corruption before users see it. Snapshots then preserve block-level changes, allowing instant rollback. Finally, scheduled backups copy verified data to external locations, protecting against physical loss.

Best Synology NAS Models for Different Business Sizes

Choosing the best NAS models depends on user count, data growth, and workload type. At STS Qatar, we recommend Synology models based on real deployment experience, ensuring businesses get reliable performance today and room to scale tomorrow.

How to Choose the Right Synology NAS Model?

The right NAS is about matching real usage, not guessing capacity. A correctly selected Synology NAS supports daily operations, protects data, and avoids early replacement as your business in Qatar grows.

1. Number of Active Users

Focus on concurrent users, not total staff. Multiple users accessing large files simultaneously increases CPU, RAM, and disk I/O demand. Undersized systems slow down quickly under real-world usage.

2. Workload Type

File sharing, backups, CCTV recording, and virtualization load the system differently. Identify dominant workloads first. Plus and XS series handle sustained workloads better than entry-level models.

3. Storage Growth Forecast

Estimate storage needs for the next three to five years. Choose models that support expansion units or larger drives, so growth happens without replacing the entire NAS.

4. Data Protection Requirements

Businesses that cannot afford downtime need RAID, snapshots, and automated backups. These features protect against disk failure, ransomware, and human error, which are the most common causes of data loss.

5. Remote Access & Collaboration

If teams work remotely or across branches, ensure the NAS supports secure, encrypted remote access. Poor remote design leads to unsafe file-sharing tools and data leakage risks.

6. Long-Term Cost Efficiency

Lower-cost models save money initially but limit scalability. Mid-range NAS units often reduce total ownership cost by lasting longer, supporting upgrades, and avoiding premature system replacement.

Is Synology NAS Worth the Investment?

Yes, absolutely but if users understand the breakeven timeline based on their storage needs.

Google One’s 2TB plan costs $10 monthly. That adds up to $600 over five years. Meanwhile, a basic Synology NAS with drives costs around $500 upfront. Users break even after just 27 months. 

Beyond that point, everything becomes pure savings with no recurring fees eating into budgets. For businesses managing multiple devices, Active Backup solution saves more than 50% compared to traditional backup software in just the first year alone Synology. That’s real money staying in users’ pockets instead of going to subscription services year after year.

In Closing 

Synology NAS eliminates recurring cloud subscription costs while delivering complete data control for Qatar businesses. The DS418, DS918+, DS1819+, and XS Series provide enterprise-grade protection with RAID redundancy, automated backups, and BTRFS self-healing capabilities. Investment breaks even within 27 months compared to cloud storage. 

After that, savings compound annually while your data stays physically secure under local regulations.

Ready to secure your business data? Reach out to Synergy Technology Solutions WLL and let our team help you find the perfect Synology solution. We’ll handle everything from initial assessment to deployment, ensuring your infrastructure runs smoothly from day one.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Question: What Is DSM (DiskStation Manager)?

Answer: DSM is Synology’s Linux-based operating system that runs on every NAS device. It provides a web interface for managing storage, backups, user permissions, and applications. Users access it through any browser without installing software on their computers.

Question: What Is RAID and Why Does Synology Use It?

Answer: RAID distributes data across multiple drives for redundancy and performance. If one drive fails, the system reconstructs lost data from remaining drives automatically. Synology uses RAID to prevent data loss during hardware failures without requiring manual intervention.

Question: What Is Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR)?

Answer: SHR automatically optimizes storage across drives of different sizes without manual configuration. Traditional RAID limits usable space to the smallest drive capacity in the array. SHR calculates optimal parity distribution, maximizing usable storage while maintaining full data protection.

Question: How Remote Access Works in Synology NAS

Answer: QuickConnect creates a secure tunnel between your NAS and external devices without port forwarding configuration. The system assigns a unique QuickConnect ID that routes traffic through Synology’s relay servers. Users access files from anywhere using the ID, password, and optional two-factor authentication for security.