Synology DS218j v4 Hardware Installation Guide

Synology DS218j manual cover
Pages 17
Year 2017
Language(s)
English en

Synology DS218j Specification

The Synology DS218j is a versatile and budget-friendly two-bay NAS designed for home and personal use, providing a robust solution for data storage, file sharing, and multimedia streaming. Powered by a 64-bit dual-core processor running at 1.3 GHz, the DS218j delivers a noteworthy performance with a read speed of over 113 MB/s and a write speed of over 112 MB/s, ensuring efficient data handling and transfer capabilities.

Equipped with 512 MB of DDR3 memory, this NAS model supports up to two 16 TB drives, allowing a maximum internal raw capacity of 32 TB. It is compatible with both 3.5" and 2.5" SATA HDDs and SSDs, offering flexibility in storage options. The Synology DS218j runs on the feature-rich DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system, providing a user-friendly interface for seamless management and configuration. DSM supports a wide range of applications, including file syncing, backup solutions, and multimedia services, enhancing the functionality of the NAS beyond simple storage.

The DS218j includes two USB 3.0 ports, facilitating high-speed data transfer with external devices. Its energy-efficient design, with a power consumption of 17.48 watts during access and 7.03 watts during hibernation, makes it an eco-friendly choice for continuous operation. The NAS also supports a variety of RAID configurations, including Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR), Basic, JBOD, and RAID 0/1, providing users with flexible options for data protection and storage management. Its compact dimensions, measuring 165 mm x 100 mm x 225.5 mm, and weight of 0.88 kg make it a suitable fit for any home environment. The Synology DS218j stands out as an ideal entry-level NAS, combining performance, capacity, and ease of use.

Synology DS218j F.A.Q.

How do I set up my Synology DS218j for the first time?

To set up your Synology DS218j, connect it to your network and power it on. Use a computer on the same network to visit http://find.synology.com or use the Synology Assistant app to find the NAS. Follow the setup wizard to install DSM and configure your device.

What should I do if my DS218j is not appearing on the network?

Ensure the NAS is powered on and connected to the network. Check the network cables and router settings. Use the Synology Assistant to locate the NAS. If it still doesn't appear, try connecting directly to a PC and assign a static IP.

How can I expand storage on my DS218j?

The DS218j supports up to two drives. To expand storage, replace the existing drives with higher-capacity ones or add a second drive if only one is installed. Use Synology's RAID calculator to plan your setup.

Can I access my DS218j remotely?

Yes, you can access your DS218j remotely using Synology's QuickConnect or by setting up a VPN. Ensure that remote access is enabled in the Control Panel under QuickConnect or External Access.

How do I perform a firmware update on my DS218j?

Go to the Control Panel, select 'Update & Restore', then 'DSM Update'. Check for updates and follow the prompts to download and install the latest DSM firmware. Always back up important data before updating.

Why is my DS218j running slowly?

Check for resource-heavy applications running on the NAS and disable any unnecessary ones. Ensure the drives are healthy and not full. Consider upgrading the drives or optimizing RAID settings. Reboot the NAS to clear cache.

How do I back up data from my DS218j?

Use Hyper Backup to back up data to an external drive, another Synology NAS, or a cloud service. Schedule regular backups and verify them to ensure data integrity.

What are the best practices for maintaining the DS218j?

Regularly check drive health in Storage Manager, clean dust from vents, update DSM firmware, and back up data. Monitor system logs for any unusual activity and ensure the NAS is in a cool, dry place.

How can I secure my DS218j from unauthorized access?

Enable the firewall and set up account protection in Security settings. Use strong passwords and disable the default admin account. Regularly update DSM and installed packages. Consider setting up 2-step verification.

What should I do if I forget the administrator password for my DS218j?

Use the reset button on the back of the NAS to reset the password. Press and hold the button for about 4 seconds until you hear a beep. This will reset the network settings and admin password without affecting data.