Synology DS218 Hardware Installation Guide v2

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Year 2017

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Synology DS218 Specification

The Synology DS218 is a versatile 2-bay NAS designed to meet the storage needs of home and small office users. Powered by a 64-bit quad-core Realtek RTD1296 processor clocked at 1.4 GHz, this device ensures efficient data management and seamless multimedia streaming. It comes equipped with 2 GB of DDR4 RAM, enhancing its multitasking capabilities and overall performance. The DS218 supports a variety of file systems, including Btrfs and EXT4, offering advanced data protection and flexible storage management.

For connectivity, the DS218 features a single Gigabit Ethernet port, enabling reliable network access, along with two USB 3.0 ports for fast data transfer and peripheral connectivity. The NAS supports up to 32TB of raw capacity across its two drive bays, which are compatible with 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch SATA HDDs and SSDs, facilitating various storage configurations to suit different needs.

The DS218 runs on Synology's intuitive DiskStation Manager (DSM) software, providing a user-friendly interface and a suite of applications for data backup, file sharing, and multimedia management. It supports powerful features such as Media Server, which allows seamless streaming to DLNA-compliant devices, and QuickConnect, enabling remote access without complex network configurations.

With a focus on energy efficiency, the DS218 consumes a modest amount of power, making it an eco-friendly choice. Its compact design, coupled with robust performance and versatile features, makes the Synology DS218 an ideal solution for users seeking reliable and efficient network-attached storage.

Synology DS218 F.A.Q.

How do I set up my Synology DS218 for the first time?

To set up your Synology DS218 for the first time, connect it to your network and power it on. Use a web browser to navigate to find.synology.com or use the Synology Assistant software. Follow the on-screen instructions to initialize the drive, create your administrator account, and configure your storage.

How can I access my Synology DS218 remotely?

To access your Synology DS218 remotely, enable QuickConnect by logging into DSM, navigating to Control Panel > QuickConnect, and enabling it. You can also set up DDNS or use Synology's VPN capabilities for more secure access.

What is the recommended way to perform regular backups on Synology DS218?

Use Synology's Hyper Backup application to create regular backups. It supports backing up to various destinations, such as external drives, network locations, or cloud services. Schedule regular backup tasks to ensure data protection.

How can I expand storage on my Synology DS218?

To expand storage, you can replace existing drives with larger ones one by one, allowing for RAID migration, or use external drives via USB ports for additional storage. Ensure to back up your data before making any changes.

What should I do if I forget the admin password for DSM on my DS218?

If you forget the admin password, use the reset button located on the back of the DS218. Press and hold it until you hear a beep, which will reset the network settings and admin password. You can then log in with the default credentials.

How do I update the firmware on the Synology DS218?

To update the firmware, log in to DSM and go to Control Panel > Update & Restore. Check for updates and follow the prompts to download and install the latest firmware. It's recommended to back up your data before proceeding with the update.

Why is my Synology DS218 running slowly, and how can I troubleshoot it?

If the DS218 is running slowly, check for resource-heavy applications and disable them if not needed. Ensure that the drives are healthy using the Storage Manager. Also, verify network connection speeds and check for DSM updates that might improve performance.

Can I use the Synology DS218 for media streaming, and how?

Yes, you can use DS218 for media streaming by installing packages like Video Station or Plex Media Server through Package Center. These applications support streaming to various devices such as smart TVs, computers, and mobile devices.

How do I secure my Synology DS218 from unauthorized access?

Secure your DS218 by enabling the firewall, setting up 2-step verification, using strong passwords, and regularly updating DSM and packages. Consider setting up a VPN for secure remote access.

What are the steps to replace a failing hard drive in my DS218?

To replace a failing hard drive, first back up your data. Use Storage Manager to check RAID status and remove the faulty drive. Insert a new drive, and DSM will prompt you to repair the storage pool. Follow the instructions to complete the process.