Synology NAS is a dedicated network-attached storage device that runs DiskStation Manager (DSM), a browser-accessible operating system built on Linux.
This guide covers what NAS devices are, how Synology differs from other brands, and how to complete the full initial setup of DSM from scratch.
Quick Answer
A NAS connects to your router and serves files to every device on the network. Synology NAS runs DSM, which adds a web management interface and app support.
What Is a NAS Device?
NAS stands for Network-Attached Storage, a standalone device with its own processor, RAM, and OS that connects to your local network via Ethernet.
Unlike a USB drive that only one PC can use at a time, a NAS gives simultaneous read and write access to every device connected to the same network.
Because the NAS has its own processor and RAM, it handles file indexing, backups, and media transcoding without borrowing any resources from your PC.
NAS vs. DAS Devices
DAS (Directly Attached Storage) covers devices like USB drives that plug into a single PC. The host PC does all processing for data stored on that device.
A NAS eliminates this by sitting on the network instead. Multiple users can access it at the same time without putting any load on any individual PC.
What Is Synology NAS?
Synology is a Taiwanese company that builds NAS devices and develops DSM (DiskStation Manager), its own Linux-based operating system for those devices.
DSM runs in a web browser at your NAS IP address followed by port 5000, and functions like a lightweight desktop OS with apps, file management, and system alerts.
The Package Center in DSM lets you install apps like Plex, Docker, or Synology Drive directly on the NAS without needing a separate dedicated server.
RAID Options and Synology Hybrid RAID
Synology supports standard RAID levels like RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10 alongside its own SHR (Synology Hybrid RAID) format designed for mixed-size drives.
SHR automatically maximizes usable capacity when drives of different sizes are installed in the same array while maintaining fault tolerance and data protection.
How to Set Up Synology NAS
Follow the steps below to connect the hardware, install DSM using the Synology Web Assistant, and complete the initial configuration wizard for your device.
Step 1: Connect and Power On
Install the hard drives into the NAS bays and connect the device to your router with an RJ-45 Ethernet cable, then press the power button on the front panel.
The boot takes about a minute. The device will beep and the status LED will change when it is ready to be detected on the local network by the Web Assistant.
Step 2: Find Your NAS
On a PC connected to the same network, open a browser and navigate to find.synology.com to launch the Synology Web Assistant network scanning tool.
The assistant scans the local network and lists any Synology devices found. Click Connect next to your device to be redirected to its welcome page.
Step 3: Install DSM
From the welcome page, click Setup then Install Now. When prompted about data erasure, check I understand and click OK to start the DSM installation process.
A progress bar shows installation status. When it finishes, a countdown timer indicates the time remaining until the NAS automatically restarts to complete setup.
Step 4: Run the Configuration Wizard
After the restart, click Start on the DSM welcome screen. Create a device name and admin account, then select your preferred DSM update settings to finish.
Once the wizard completes, a desktop prompt will ask you to create a storage pool and volume. Complete that step before attempting to store any files on the NAS.
Who Should Use a NAS?
NAS devices are best for small to medium businesses that need shared storage and centralized backups accessible from multiple workstations simultaneously.
Home users running media servers, backing up multiple computers, or sharing large files between devices will also benefit significantly from owning a NAS device.