Sometimes, it seems as if there’s never enough space for your files. As the need for higher-definition audio and video files increases and users become better acquainted with handling these files, you’ll soon find that your computer’s 1TB hard drive is quickly becoming too small. Computer videographers, digital photographers and AV enthusiasts are taking an appreciable interest in server-level storage options.
Synology is known for providing safe and stable storage solutions for a wide variety of customers, from their personal and home office lineup to their workgroup and small-business series. With people demanding more storage, Synology steps up to the plate with a lineup of diverse storage solutions that fits almost anyone's bill.
But first, what are the base standards you should look for in a server? Do you want something with a large capacity, faster transfer speeds or a combination of both? A big part of that decision rests on how you plan to use the unit. If the server will be used primarily for storage, you’ll want a powerful processor and speedy transfer interface. If you’re using the NAS as a media server, you want flexibility in the output of data, like portable device connectivity, Wi-Fi options and Internet access. If you’re just looking to set up a dedicated mail or FTP server, you want to look for advanced security options to help prevent unwanted access to your data.
Synology covers all the bases, with business-specific and personal home-use servers that range anywhere from 2-bay to 12-bay servers. Most of these servers are sold as stand-alone units, but many are sold as kits with the hard drives included. All have iOS/Android applications as well.
Standard Business Line Servers
The DiskStation DS2413+ 12-bay NAS Server is an example of Synology’s commitment to business needs. This enterprise level NAS server is scalable to up to 24 drives (using the Synology DX1121), or 96TB of data. It features a 2.13 GHz dual core processor, 2GB of DDR3 RAM (expandable to 4GB) and various server capabilities. It also features a 201.03 MBps read speed and 196.87 MBps write speed, dual Gigabit Ethernet and USB 3.0 ports.
So who would benefit from a DS2413+ 12-bay server? Any small-to-large-scale business looking to aggregate or centralize their data would definitely appreciate the 24/7 reliability of a server like this. It’s also ideal for an IT department looking to set up a small office network with sharing, multi-user account, and offsite data transfers.
WorkGroups and Small Business Servers
NAS servers for small workgroups and offices need rich office applications and enhanced security. The Synology DS213 is an all-in-one 2-bay NAS server that features a 2.0 GHz processor, 512MB of DDR3 RAM and print, FTP and mail server support. It is available in configurations up to 8TB, and can accommodate two 2.5” or 3.5” SATA II hard disks or solid-state drives.
It also features its own hardware encryption engine for enhanced security. Other security protocols include FTP over SSL/TLS (the same security used by most e-commerce sites), IP Auto-Block, Firewall, Encrypted Network Backup over Rsync and secure HTTPS connection support.
Other models in this line include the DS213+, which features a dual core 1.067 GHz processor, and an integrated floating point processor. Usually, the floating point processor, which is essential to helping out with the mathematical computations that power the processor, is included in the chip. But an integrated floating point processor is hardwired to the board, which leaves the processor free for faster and heavier-duty work. What you get is a more efficient and speedier processor.
Even though the small footprint of the DS213 and DS213+ allows it to be used on a desktop, it is still a powerful NAS server. It’s best used in smaller server environments or where space considerations must be met. It also makes a great server for small offices, in which fewer connections are required.
Personal and Home Office Servers
Synology gets even more up close and personal with smaller NAS servers that are ideal for home use. The Synology DS411slim has a compact cube design, but still accommodates up to four 2.5” hard disks. It can hold up to 4TB (4x1TB) of storage, and is available as a stand-alone unit or configured in various sizes.
It features a 1.6 GHz processor and 256MB of DDR3 RAM, along with USB 2.0 and eSATA connectivity. This is a more traditional storage server, and is best for budget-conscious users who just want a large storage unit to file away their digital photos, music, movies and other files. It still includes most of the server capabilities of the other models.
The new DS213air is the latest model in the DS213 series, and features a 1.6 GHz processor, hardware encryption engine and USB 3.0 and Gigabit Ethernet connectivity. But what it additionally features is built-in Wi-Fi, which allows you to use the unit as a NAS server and a wireless hotspot, extender, or primary wireless access point. The 2-bay still contains the enriched features of Synology’s standard NAS servers, including PHP/MySQL, FTP and print server capability, and even includes surveillance station IP camera support.
Synology has even more compact personal NAS servers, like the Synology DS112j. This single bay provides the perfect solution for one-touch backup of critical files. It features a 1.0 GHz processor, 128MB of DDR2 RAM and Gigabit Ethernet and USB 2.0 ports. This mini-server still has a full slate of applications including network backup, local backup, print/FTP/mail server capability and iOS/Android applications.
These personal NAS servers fulfill a variety of functions, but what they offer is a flexible way for you to access personal digital files. With the right combination of drives and servers, you can easily create your own cloud server, and pull files from wherever you happen to be. You can also enjoy all your music, movies and photos from any connected device on your network, making it easier to share and locate your vast array of digital files at any time.
Synology makes a wide variety of servers for a wide variety of users. You’ll be able to find any configuration that meets your personal or professional needs at B&H Photo. For more information on our Synology lineup, stop by the B&H SuperStore in New York, speak with a sales professional on the telephone at 1-800-606-6969 or contact us online via Live Chat.
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