Versatile Usage: Adapting to Different Needs
When I think of the word NAS, what comes to mind is just that: a network-attached storage device, a large-capacity data storage that is accessible via your local network. However, these days, a NAS device is a lot more than just central storage. With modern CPUs, memory, and storage, they are essentially computers that can do more than just store your digital data.
As I’ve previously mentioned, I use mine for a variety of use cases. For instance, I use it to back up our phones’ photos, allowing me to access those photos anywhere at any time. Additionally, there are two virtual servers running: one is a password vault, and the other is an instance of Ubuntu (Linux). Furthermore, I also have Minecraft and Valheim gaming servers that can be run from them. Moreover, with a fairly extensive DVD collection, I have converted and stored them digitally with Plex so that we can stream them to the TVs in the house. Clearly, the uses of the modern-day NAS are almost endless.
How can a Synology DiskStation NAS like the DS923+ fit within a household environment you may ask? Off the top of my head these are some of the features I have found helpful being a parent:
Data Storage
Each member of your household can have their own account on the device, which in-turn can be used as their own personal network storage that can be accessible locally or remotely. You can map their network share to their computer and they can store all their digital school assignments in one central location. You can even set it up like your own personal Dropbox type service too!
Online Photo Albums & Backups
With the help of the Synology DSM app Synology Photos, you can back up mobile device photos easily and effortlessly. A useful feature is being able to set up a Geofence. That way, when a mobile device associates to the WiFi network in your home, any new photos or videos captured can be automatically uploaded to your own storage area. You can also send links to people and share photos or even photo albums.
Video Streaming
In my case, I have been using Plex and Synology supports running a Plex server to serve your digital videos needs. It catalogues the videos/movies/TV shows and displays them effortlessly via the Plex app on your mobile device or Smart TV. I have taken DVD and BluRay movies I own and slowly digitizing them to make use of in Plex.
Virtual Servers
This can vary based on the experience of the person setting up and maintaining the Synology DS924+. I make use of Virtual Server Manager and run two separate VMs. One is a stand-alone instance of Ubuntu that allows me to work in Linux when I need to, the other was a previous work related one for VoIP; running FreeBPX.
On the other hand, I have also set up Docker and have two docker images that I can easily enable and use. One is a Minecraft game server, the other is a Valheim game server. Of course you millage will vary based on the amount of memory your Synology NAS has installed. If you want to run game servers, I would highly recommend increasing the amount of RAM from 4 GB to 16 GB at the very least.
Git
I’m a software developer and when I am tinkering with code at home I want to have it in a repository so that I can maintain changes. That is where Git comes in and Synology can easily be set configured to run your own personal local (network accessible) Git server.
The list of possibilities is essentially endless. You can run your own mail server, you can run your own web server
Word Processing & More
If you have ever used something like Microsoft Office or Microsoft 365 or Google Docs, Synology has their own called Synology Office though it is also a part of Synology Drive. At no additional monthly or yearly subscription you can share documents and folders locally or send a link to a colleague or friend. Those who are still in school can make use of the Synology Office side to write reports, do homework and more. Since it is all “cloud” based, what they create at home can be accessed when at school or office too.
