So why is a business consultant doing a review on a NAS system?
Well, I was struggling to manage and make accessible all of the data and information I had on numerous USB memory sticks, external drives and cloud storage.
As a disbursed business (consultant speak for a team that all work remote from each other) cloud storage seemed the most logical but this gets expensive when you start scaling up, and frankly lacks flexibility when it comes to user management.
After searching for a solution I could work with, I ultimately went for a NAS solution, and selected Synology as my tech of choice.
It is important to note that whilst I have now deployed an on-site NAS solution (accessible to the team and clients alike) I rigidly stick to the 3-2-1 Backup Strategy (3 copies, 2 media, 1 copy offsite) to ensure that I can recover quickly from any disaster that may affect access to the NAS.
Synology DS923+ NAS: A Small Business Powerhouse for Centralized File Storage and Backup
As a small business owner or sole trader, finding the right balance between cost-effective solutions and robust performance can be challenging, especially when it comes to data management. The Synology DS923+ NAS device offers an excellent blend of both, providing a powerful yet easy-to-use solution for centralized file storage, backup, and more.
Purpose and Power: Why the Synology DS923+?
The Synology DS923+ is designed to meet the needs of small businesses by providing a reliable, high-performance network-attached storage (NAS) solution. It’s particularly well-suited for businesses that need:
- Centralized File Storage: The DS923+ allows you to store all your business documents, media, and other files in one secure location, accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. This ensures that your team can collaborate seamlessly, whether they’re in the office or working remotely.
- Backup Solution: With the DS923+, you can automate backups for your laptops, desktops, and even mobile devices. This NAS acts as a safeguard against data loss, providing peace of mind that your critical business information is protected. (Note that I also use it as an alternative to traditional cloud storage, while still leveraging cloud services for off-site backups and disk snapshots).
- Scalability: As your business grows, so can your storage needs. The DS923+ is scalable, allowing you to add more drives or connect to expansion units as your data requirements increase.
Key Features and Benefits
The Synology DS923+ comes packed with features that make it an invaluable asset for small businesses and sole traders. Here are some of the key features and benefits:
- Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) Software: The DSM software is at the heart of the DS923+, offering a user-friendly interface that simplifies management tasks. From setting up user permissions to automating backups, DSM makes managing your NAS intuitive and efficient.
- High Performance: Powered by a quad-core processor and expandable RAM, the DS923+ delivers fast and reliable performance. This is crucial for businesses that need to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, such as file sharing, backup, and media streaming.
- Advanced Data Protection: The DS923+ supports RAID configurations, offering redundancy and protecting your data against hardware failure. In addition, features like snapshot replication ensure that your data is secure and easily recoverable in case of accidental deletion or corruption.
- Remote Access: With QuickConnect, you can access your NAS from anywhere without needing complex network configurations. This feature is particularly beneficial for small business owners who need to access files on the go.
- Energy Efficiency: The DS923+ is designed to be energy efficient, consuming less power than a typical desktop computer. This can result in significant cost savings over time, particularly for businesses operating multiple units.
- Expandable Storage: With four drive bays and support for up to 64TB of raw capacity, the DS923+ can grow with your business. You can also connect additional expansion units if you need even more storage space.
Ease of Use: Almost Plug, Play, and Forget
One of the standout features of the Synology DS923+ is its ease of use. From setup to day-to-day management, the DS923+ is designed to be user-friendly:
- Setup: The setup process is straightforward, even for those without extensive IT knowledge. The DSM software guides you through the initial configuration, making it easy to get up and running quickly.
- Management: Once set up, managing your NAS is a breeze. The DSM interface is intuitive, allowing you to monitor performance, manage files, and configure settings from any device with an internet connection. Whether you’re in the office or on the go, you have complete control over your data.
- Ease of Use: The DS923+ is designed to be a “set it and forget it” solution. Once configured, it requires minimal intervention, allowing you to focus on running your business without worrying about your data storage needs.
Pricing: Value for Money
The Synology DS923+ offers great value, considering its robust feature set and performance. As of now, the DS923+ is priced around [insert current price], but keep in mind that the total cost will depend on the hard drives you choose to install, as the unit itself does not come with storage.
If you opt for additional upgrades, such as more RAM or SSDs for cache acceleration, this will increase the overall cost but can significantly boost performance for data-intensive applications.
Comparison: Standing Out in the Crowd
While I haven’t personally tried other NAS devices, the Synology DS923+ stands out due to its combination of power, ease of use, and scalability. It competes well with other NAS solutions on the market, particularly for small businesses that need a reliable, high-performance storage solution without the complexity of more enterprise-focused systems.
Final Thoughts
For small business owners and sole traders, the Synology DS923+ is a formidable tool that can simplify data management, enhance security, and support business growth. Its ease of use, combined with powerful features, makes it a top choice for those looking to centralize file storage, automate backups, and move away from traditional cloud storage solutions.
If you’re considering investing in a NAS device, the Synology DS923+ should be at the top of your list.