Synology DS214play v7 Quick Installation Guide

Synology DS214play manual cover
Pages 16
Year 2013
Language(s)
English en

Synology DS214play Specification

The Synology DS214play is a versatile 2-bay NAS server designed for multimedia enthusiasts seeking an efficient and reliable storage solution. It runs on a dual-core 1.6 GHz processor with 1 GB of DDR3 RAM, which ensures smooth multitasking capabilities and responsive performance. The device supports up to 12 TB of total internal storage, accommodating two 3.5" or 2.5" SATA III/II drives. This NAS is optimized for transcoding, offering real-time 1080p Full HD video transcoding on the fly, which allows seamless streaming to various devices without needing pre-conversion.

Equipped with Synology's DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system, the DS214play provides a user-friendly interface and a comprehensive suite of applications for file sharing, data backup, and multimedia management. It supports a wide range of protocols including CIFS, AFP, and NFS, ensuring compatibility with various operating systems such as Windows, macOS, and Linux. The NAS also features two USB 3.0 ports and one eSATA port, facilitating high-speed data transfer and external storage expansion.

For network connectivity, the DS214play includes a single Gigabit Ethernet port, which supports Link Aggregation and failover. Security features are robust, with options like AES 256-bit encryption, firewall, and IP auto-block to protect against unauthorized access and data breaches. Additionally, it supports surveillance applications and can connect with IP cameras for a comprehensive home or office security setup.

The Synology DS214play is designed for energy efficiency, featuring a low-power consumption mode and scheduled power on/off settings. Its quiet operation and compact design make it suitable for home environments. Overall, the DS214play offers an impressive blend of performance, multimedia capabilities, and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a high-quality NAS solution.

Synology DS214play F.A.Q.

How do I set up my Synology DS214play for the first time?

To set up your Synology DS214play, connect it to your network and power it on. Use the Synology Assistant application on your computer to locate the NAS on the network. Follow the on-screen instructions to install DSM (DiskStation Manager) and configure your device settings.

What should I do if my DS214play is not connecting to the network?

First, ensure that the Ethernet cable is properly connected to both your DS214play and your router. Restart both the NAS and the router. Use the Synology Assistant to locate the device on your network. If the problem persists, check your router settings and ensure that DHCP is enabled.

How can I expand the storage on my DS214play?

To expand storage, you can replace the existing drives with higher-capacity ones. Ensure that you back up your data first. Once new drives are installed, use the Storage Manager in DSM to configure them and restore your data from the backup.

My DS214play is running slowly. How can I improve its performance?

Check the CPU and RAM usage in Resource Monitor. If they are high, consider upgrading the RAM if possible or reducing the number of active applications. Regularly update DSM and installed packages. Clean up unnecessary files and check for any system errors.

How do I back up data from my DS214play to an external hard drive?

Connect the external hard drive to a USB port on the DS214play. Open Hyper Backup in DSM and create a new backup task. Select the folders you want to back up and choose the external drive as the backup destination.

What is the procedure for replacing a faulty drive in my DS214play?

Power down the DS214play and remove the faulty drive. Insert a new, compatible drive into the same bay. Power on the NAS and use the Storage Manager in DSM to repair the storage pool and restore data redundancy.

How can I access my DS214play remotely?

Enable QuickConnect in the Control Panel and set up a QuickConnect ID. Alternatively, configure your router to allow port forwarding for the DS214play. Use Synology's DDNS service for a consistent address or access it via the QuickConnect link.

What should I do if I forgot the admin password for my DS214play?

Press and hold the RESET button on the back of the DS214play for 4 seconds until you hear a beep. This will reset the network settings and admin password. You can then access DSM using the default credentials and set a new password.

How do I ensure my DS214play is secure against unauthorized access?

Regularly update DSM and all installed packages. Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts. Enable two-factor authentication and configure firewall settings. Disable services that are not in use and regularly review access logs.

Can I stream media from my DS214play to my smart TV?

Yes, you can use the DLNA/UPnP feature in DSM to stream media. Enable Media Server in DSM, and your DS214play will appear as a source on your smart TV. You can also use apps like Plex or DS Video for additional features.