New Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station from UGREEN Revealed at IFA Berlin

UGREEN has made a strong EARLY statement at IFA 2024 in Berlin with the unveiling of their latest innovation, the Revodok Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station. This addition to UGREEN’s prestigious Revodok series is designed to enhance productivity and user experience by harnessing the latest in connectivity technology. IFA, being one of the world’s leading trade shows for consumer electronics and home appliances, provides the perfect platform for UGREEN to showcase its advancements in docking station technology. The Revodok Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station is not just another product; it is a leap into the future, promising users a new level of connectivity and performance. UGREEN’s presence at IFA 2024 highlights its commitment to innovation and leadership in the tech accessories market, marking a significant milestone in their product lineup.

Thunderbolt 5: A Leap Forward in Connectivity

Thunderbolt 5 technology is poised to revolutionize the market with its groundbreaking features, and the Revodok Docking Station is among the first to embrace this leap. Thunderbolt 5, announced by Intel, significantly boosts connectivity capabilities by offering 80 Gbps of bi-directional bandwidth, and up to 120 Gbps with Bandwidth Boost, which is a substantial improvement over the 40 Gbps provided by Thunderbolt 4.

These enhancements cater to the growing needs of modern users who demand faster data transfer rates, higher resolution video outputs, and more efficient multitasking capabilities. Thunderbolt 5 is designed to meet these demands, making it an ideal choice for content creators, gamers, and professionals who rely on high-performance connectivity for their daily tasks.

By building on established standards like USB4 V2 and PCI Express Gen 4, Thunderbolt 5 ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, ensuring a smooth transition for users upgrading their systems.

Extensive Ports and Connections for Maximum Flexibility

The Revodok Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station is equipped with an impressive array of ports and connections, ensuring it meets the needs of even the most demanding users. This extensive connectivity enables the docking station to serve as a central hub for a variety of devices, from high-speed storage solutions to multiple displays. Below is a table outlining the ports and connections available on the Revodok Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station:

This comprehensive range of ports provides the flexibility to connect a wide array of peripherals and devices, making it a versatile addition to any setup. Whether it’s for transferring large files quickly, connecting multiple monitors, or ensuring a stable network connection, the Revodok Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station covers all bases.

Benefits of a Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station

Adopting a Thunderbolt 5 docking station like the Revodok model brings numerous benefits to users. The primary advantage is the significant increase in data transfer speeds, which can reach up to 80 Gbps under normal conditions, and up to 120 Gbps with Bandwidth Boost. This rapid data movement is crucial for users who work with large files, such as video editors, graphic designers, and engineers, who need to transfer data quickly and efficiently. The docking station also supports high-resolution displays, providing a resolution of up to 8K at 60Hz for Windows users and 6K at 60Hz for Mac users, which is ideal for tasks requiring detailed visual output. Additionally, the ability to connect up to three displays simultaneously, with options for mirrored or extended modes, enhances multitasking capabilities, allowing users to streamline their workflow by easily managing multiple applications and tasks.

The Early Stages of Thunderbolt 5 Adoption

Despite the advanced capabilities of the Revodok Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station, it is important to recognize that Thunderbolt 5 technology is still in its early stages of adoption. Intel’s official announcement of Thunderbolt 5 was made in late 2023, and as such, the market is still catching up with compatible devices. Currently, there are few Thunderbolt 5-enabled devices available, which may limit the immediate utility of the docking station for some users. However, being one of the first Thunderbolt 5 docking stations, the Revodok model positions itself at the forefront of this technological evolution. As more manufacturers begin to release Thunderbolt 5-compatible devices, the true potential of this docking station will be realized, offering unparalleled performance and connectivity. Early adopters of the Revodok Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station are investing in future-proof technology that will become increasingly relevant as Thunderbolt 5 gains traction in the market.

Capabilities of the Revodok Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station

To fully appreciate the capabilities of the Revodok Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station, it is helpful to look at the various features it offers. The table below summarizes the key capabilities of this advanced docking station:

These capabilities highlight the versatility and power of the Revodok Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station, making it suitable for a wide range of applications from professional work environments to home entertainment setups. Its ability to handle multiple high-resolution displays and provide rapid data transfer makes it an essential tool for anyone looking to enhance their computing experience.

Conclusion

The UGREEN Revodok Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station marks a significant step forward in docking station technology, offering unparalleled connectivity and performance. By integrating Thunderbolt 5, it sets a new standard for data transfer speeds, display capabilities, and overall versatility. While the technology is still in its infancy, with limited Thunderbolt 5 devices currently available, UGREEN’s early adoption positions the Revodok docking station as a leader in the future of connectivity solutions. As the market evolves and more devices adopt Thunderbolt 5, the full potential of this docking station will become apparent, providing users with the highest levels of productivity, efficiency, and convenience. The Revodok Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station is not just a product; it is a glimpse into the future of how we will connect and interact with our digital world.

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Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS Flash NAS Review

The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus is a compact NAS device designed to address the increasing demand for high-speed, flash-based storage solutions in the prosumer and small business markets. With the recent rise in popularity of flash NAS devices, several brands have entered the market, offering their own versions of high-performance, compact storage solutions. The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus aims to differentiate itself with a combination of efficient design, comprehensive software capabilities, and competitive pricing.

In recent months, other notable entries in this space include the Asustor Flashstor series, the UGREEN DXP480T, and QNAP’s TBS-574TX and TBS-464, all of which offer varying features and benefits targeted at users seeking reliable and fast NAS solutions. The Asustor Flashstor series is known for its sleek design and user-friendly interface, appealing to those who prioritize ease of use alongside performance. The UGREEN DXP480T, with its focus on robust connectivity options and versatile application, caters to users looking for flexible integration with various devices and networks. Meanwhile, QNAP’s TBS-574TX and TBS-464 bring advanced hardware options and powerful processing capabilities, making them suitable for environments where speed and multitasking are critical. In this review, we will explore the features, performance, and potential limitations of the Terramaster F8 SSD Plus. By comparing it to other recent solutions in the market, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of how well the F8 SSD Plus meets the needs of prosumers, content creators, small to medium-sized businesses, and other users looking for an efficient and capable NAS solution.

Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

You really have to give Terramaster credit for the F8 SSD Plus, as it stands out impressively among the many brands entering the dedicated flash SSD storage market recently. Despite its compact size, it offers more storage than most competitors, though long-term users may be concerned about heat management. Terramaster has addressed this with effective heatsink placement, angled airflow, and necessary SSD performance adjustments to control temperature. While not perfect and lacking some high-end business features like ECC memory and network failover, it suits prosumers, enthusiasts, and small to medium businesses. Content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases will benefit from this system, despite the absence of some enterprise-level hardware. The TOS 6 software has improved significantly, offering a wide array of features such as flexible RAID, BTRFS support, multi-tiered backup, and more. Though the “Windows 11” aesthetic might not appeal to everyone, and there is a notable absence of ZFS, the ability to install third-party OS options like UnRAID and TrueNAS adds versatility. The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus is a capable, affordable, and impressive NAS solution, holding its own in a competitive market for 2024/2025, even if it doesn’t match the software flair of Synology or the aggressive hardware approach of QNAP.

SOFTWARE - 8/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 10/10

8.4

PROS

Compact Size with High Storage Capacity: Despite its small footprint, the F8 SSD Plus can accommodate up to 8 M.2 SSDs, providing significant storage in a compact form factor.
Effective Heat Management: The system features strategic heatsink placement, angled airflow, and SSD performance adjustments to manage heat efficiently.
Affordable Price Point: Offers a cost-effective solution for a flash NAS system, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Versatile Use: Suitable for prosumers, enthusiasts, small to medium businesses, content creators, photographers, videographers, and those managing fast-moving databases.
Improved TOS 6 Software: The latest TOS 6 software version includes a broad range of features such as RAID support, BTRFS, multi-tiered backup, and more.
Support for Third-Party Operating Systems: Users can install third-party NAS software like UnRAID and TrueNAS, offering flexibility and customization options.
Low Power Consumption: Utilizes an efficient Intel N305 i3 processor, which keeps power usage low while still delivering adequate performance.
Quiet Operation: Despite being a pure SSD system, the fan noise is minimal, making it suitable for quieter environments.
Good Connectivity Options: Includes a 10 GbE port and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, allowing for a range of external connections and expansions.
Environmentally Conscious Design: The packaging is mostly recyclable, and the use of external PSUs can help reduce heat and potential e-waste.

CONS

Lacks High-End Business Features: Missing enterprise-level features such as ECC memory and network failover, which are important for more demanding business environments.
Single 10 GbE Port: Only one network port limits redundancy and failover options, potentially creating a bottleneck for data transfer.
Aesthetic and UI Concerns: The new “Windows 11” aesthetic of TOS 6 may not appeal to all users, and the lack of the familiar TOS 5 desktop style might be a drawback for some.
No Native ZFS Support: Although there are alternative file systems available, the absence of native ZFS support, which benefits SSD use with features like data integrity and snapshot capabilities, may be seen as a limitation.

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Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS NAS Review – Design

The retail packaging that the F8 arrives in is a touch snappier than the previous bland cardboard packaging that Terramaster has opted for in the past. Clearly, the brand has decided they want their systems to appear a little bit more on the shelves of your local retailer, not just eShops like Amazon. There are a lot of big bold statements and promises, and the packaging is predominantly cardboard, the majority of which is recyclable.

I’m also pretty impressed by the accessories kit that this system arrives with. The expected stuff is here: instruction manual, screws, documentation about the brand’s warranty, and even a screwdriver. That, alongside a mains cable, is also included straight out of the box.

Interestingly though, despite this being one of many M.2 NVMe SSD-based niches, I would argue that the Terramaster F8 goes a little step further in terms of provisioning for heat dissipation. Despite each of the M.2 slots only hitting Gen 3×1 speed, the brand has included some pretty high-quality M.2 heat dissipation heatsinks, alongside thermal pads and bands to attach the heatsinks to each individual drive. I am not a huge fan of the rubber band heatsinks, as they tend to be less durable under intense heat.

However, I am prepared to give the F8 a pass here, as not only are each of these bays only Gen 3×1 speed, and therefore heat generation is going to be limited, but the general quality of the heatsink and the pads for such a compact, affordable NAS kind of make up for it.

Returning briefly to that external power supply, the system utilizes a fairly common barrel 72W external PSU. I completely understand why a system that needs to be exceedingly concerned about heat generation would opt for an external PSU, which is indeed pretty common on desktop devices. However, it is 2024, and there are simply not enough NAS devices arriving these days with USB Type-C power delivery. I know this system requires more than your average phone charger USB, but there are plenty of affordable USB-C external PSUs in the market that, alongside being perfectly suited to compact systems like this, also allow for use down the line for other purposes and therefore reduced e-waste. I understand the counterargument that a NAS device is a 24/7 system, so therefore in its lifetime, reuse of a PSU at any time is practically zero. Nevertheless, I think we’ve long gone past the point when everyone should be opting for USB-C power delivery on their systems, and now that bigger USB PSUs are in the market, this only adds to this. It’s a small gripe, but I wanted to raise it for such a small portable system.

The design of the F8 SSD PLUS is pretty impressive! Arriving at pretty much the same size as any 1-Bay HDD NAS, this thing is bloody tiny! Arriving at half the size of the Asustor Flashstor 6 with its 6x M.2 and comparable to the TBS-464 with its 4x M.2, the F8 SSD Plus manages to squeeze in 8x M.2 into this case. As good as all that sounds, however, we really do have to talk about active cooling on this system. Later on, we will talk about passive heat dissipation, but this is going to be a system that needs to be pretty reactive to when the temperatures start to rise, and offload that heat as quickly as possible!

The top of the system features a fully ventilated panel that is the direct output to the system’s internal cooling. The system takes advantage of a completely vertical cooling system, with fans located at the base of the system that are pushing air over each of the individual components and storage heatsinks throughout the system, all of which are angled vertically to ensure air passes through them.

The twin fans are located and lined up at the base of the system and are fully controllable from within the Terramaster TOS 6 NAS software. Needless to say, I would still recommend leaving these set on automatic adjustments; a system will be far more reliable if you trust it to adjust the fans as needed. During general operation, the fan noise was not too bad and was surprisingly quiet for a pure SSD system. It was by no means silent, but I have definitely dealt with louder systems than this, and given the scale and level of storage inside, during heftier 10 GbE testing, I was pretty impressed by the noise level throughout.

Unlike a number of other SSD systems in the market that choose to use metal external enclosures to act as further heat dissipation, Terramaster have stuck with a plastic external shell enclosure. I am kind of surprised by this, especially given the scale of the system, as well as the proximity of the individual heatsinks to the inner walls of the casing (just a few mm of space). Let’s discuss the ports and connections of the F8 SSD Plus.

Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS NAS Review – Ports and Connections

The system is pretty low on available ports, but the ports that are here are pretty meaningful. As the system runs on a modest Alder Lake processor, there are only nine lanes of PCIe to play with here, and therefore Terramaster had to be pretty selective and tactical about what devices and connections they provide here.

In terms of expandability, the system exclusively uses USB 3.2 Gen 2 10 Gb/s ports. There are two USB Type A connections:

As well as an additional USB Type-C connection. Terramaster supports numerous USB to 2.5G and 10G network adapters, external storage drives, UPS and Office hardware, and have an ever-growing range of expansion devices that range from traditional hard drives to even hybrid storage systems like the D5 and D8 Hybrid storage devices. Just connect to a JBOD device to one of these ports, and you could expand the initial F8 SSD Plus NAS storage exponentially!

In terms of default network connections, however, there is both good and bad news. The good news is that this system rocks out the gate with 10 GbE. A system that exclusively utilizes SSDs was always going to come under fire if it did not arrive with 10G networking, so we’ve dodged a bullet there! Realistically, of course, each one of the Gen 3×1 SSDs inside this system could almost completely saturate this connection, and once we start factoring in RAID configurations, then this 10G port may serve as a bottleneck. Nevertheless, at the system’s scale and price point, I’m really pleased with seeing a 10 GbE port.

That said, the fact the system only features a single network port really does bring this down a bit. It isn’t even that the system only features a single 10G external port instead of multiple, but the real problem is that the system doesn’t feature any kind of failover for higher/lower priority use, or as a failover in case the initial network fails. The F8 SSD Plus only featuring a single 10G port means that all operations between client devices and the F8 have to be conducted by this single output, which is going to result in that 1,000 MB per second bandwidth being carved up at times, as well as not allowing for any kind of failover or physical priority of service. I appreciate that the N305 would need serious tweaking in order to facilitate an additional 10G output, but this merely demonstrates some of the limitations that these more affordable SoC CPUs are prone to, and one of the caveats to keeping this system affordable. Technically, this is not the end of the world, but still a matter for concern. Additionally, thanks to the system arriving with a decent base of USB connections, you can still take advantage of $20-40 2.5G and 5G adapters to add further network ports via those USB ports.

The system also features an HDMI output that can reach 4K at 60 frames per second, but currently, Terramaster does not provide any HDMI parallel GUI or output. That means this HDMI output is only really for use if you use a third-party operating system such as TrueNAS or UnRAID, which Terramaster do officially support by the way!

As previously mentioned, the ports and connections on such a modest internal CPU base were always going to be difficult, and on the whole, I think Terramaster has done pretty reasonably well with what they’ve got here while maintaining the system’s price and value. Nevertheless, as good as having 10G is, that single port is a little bit of a pain. It is easy to overcome this with the use of USB 2.5G/10G network adapters, but still, it’s annoying. Let’s discuss the internal hardware a little bit more, shall we?

Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS NAS Review – Internal Hardware

The system’s external casing is held in place with a single thumb screw that is easy to remove from the base of the system, and in doing so will allow you to slide off the top of the enclosure easily. As the system takes advantage of M.2 SSDs, and not E1.S drives, hot swapping is not featured on this system, and changing drives on the fly would cause the system to crash.

Therefore, you are not going to have much cause to remove this external casing above and beyond adding further drives, replacing drives via a RAID repair, and maybe upgrading the memory at some point if you choose. Internally, we find pretty much everything built on a single PCB, with components strategically placed either side and in alignment with the base fans.

Of course, the first thing we need to discuss is the SSD bays. There are four M.2 2280 length slots on either side of this PCB. The F8 does not require full population in order to be used; indeed, you can run the F8 on as little as a single 2280 M.2 SSD if you choose, and then use the RAID expansion capability of TOS to gradually add drives over time as and when your budget and storage requirements decide. I was originally expecting the PCB to feature 8 M.2 SSD slots on one side of the PCB and the CPU/memory/network controller to all live on the other side. However, I think the way they have laid these components out makes a great deal more sense and spreads out the heat generation quite evenly.

Each slot is a Gen 3 slot that is downgraded to Gen 3×1 speed. That means that each has a potential 1,000 MB per second bandwidth. The TOS software allows for multiple storage pools and volumes as needed, so SSDs are not all locked into a single pool, and instead, you can create multiple smaller storage pools that are made up of several Gen 3×1 SSD drives. This will allow you to leverage the individual performance of each drive quite well, and given the N305 being a more efficient CPU and therefore not really able to harness the true RAID potential of multiple Gen 3×4 drives together, will also help offset any performance losses that all eight SSDs in a single pool might have resulted in. Also, let’s not forget that this system also includes all of the M.2 SSD heatsinks you are going to require, and they are very easy to install and screw down. Be cautious to use SSDs that already feature their own heatsinks, as the space allocated inside the F8 is pretty limited, and even when I installed the FireCuda 530 with its rather modest pre-attached heatsink, I was not able to replace the external casing correctly.

The system runs on an Intel Alder Lake N305 i3 processor. This is an 8-core, 8-thread CPU that features a decent base of integrated graphics. Also, the TDP of this processor is surprisingly low, especially for an Intel i3, and means that despite this system’s high-performance potential, the power consumption should be impressively low. Terramaster has already utilized the N305 in the F4-424 Pro NAS, and it worked very well.

It is worth remembering though, as mentioned earlier, that the N305 is designed to be very efficient, and alongside a very low base clock speed (that can be boosted significantly when needed), it only features nine lanes of PCIe to distribute across the system. This is the main reason why the SSDs in the F8 are all set to Gen 3×1 speed, as there are just simply not enough lanes to allocate to the rest of the system, and short of some impressive PCIe switch controller use internally, after those SSD slots and the 10 GbE connection, there is virtually nothing left to the rest of the system.

One of the earliest clues to this is that the system only features a single SODIMM supporting up to 32 GB of DDR5 memory. Terramaster has already rolled out this system to the maximum on the PLUS series model. On the one hand, it’s really good that they have included the maximum 32 GB on this model, and this is pretty much what the CPU can maximum use anyway, although other users have of course tried to install larger. But there are definitely going to be users who will complain that the system does not arrive with ECC memory, something of a staple in more storage veteran circles, and given the speed at which data is going to be moving around here, there is definitely an argument for ECC memory being needed. However, that is simply not supported on this processor, and therefore the introduction of ECC memory support on the F8 SSD PLUS would require a complete overhaul of the CPU choice, and almost certainly a large bump in the price point and power consumption. So although ECC memory would have been nice, I understand why Terramaster did what they did here.

The system’s operating system is loaded from a USB drive bootloader located inside the system, directly onto the storage media. So unlike TrueNAS, which requires a dedicated drive for its operating system, Terramaster installs TOS on the storage of the system on those M.2 SSD bays. This does not remove any of the drives from storage use and is simply an internal partition. Of course, there are pros and cons to this approach. One, you aren’t losing an SSD drive to a very light operating system that simply takes up a handful of gigabytes. The con of course is that it makes it tremendously difficult to migrate drives in and out of systems over time when the operating system lives on the original drives, and you cannot simply take out a single drive that houses the TOS configured operating system with all of your settings onto a new server easily without taking all of the existing storage media at the same time!

Given Terramaster’s reputation as the more affordable and smaller brand in the network-attached storage market, at least in comparison to Synology and QNAP, I’m hugely impressed by the design work that has happened here. It would have been so, so easy to just buy an off-the-shelf ready-made ITX motherboard and try to play around with it in order to achieve the goals of the F8. But instead, they clearly designed this from the ground up, and it is genuinely a very unique hardware design both inside and out. That said, it is by no means perfect, and they have really backed themselves into a corner here by choosing that CPU. I completely understand the logic, trying to maintain an affordable price point for an all-flash NAS system, but it really lacks some of the oomph that’s needed to allow those SSDs to spread their wings. But let’s not forget, the F8 is a turnkey solution, which means that alongside the hardware you also get a full NAS operating system included. Let’s talk a little bit about the TOS 6 NAS software.

Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS NAS Review – TOS 6 Software

The Terramaster F8 SSDs arrived with the latest TOS 6 NAS software. This software has been in beta for the majority of 2024, following up on TOS 5.1, and introduces a myriad of new features. The Terramaster TOS NAS software includes pretty much everything that you’re ever going to need now in a modern NAS solution, short of ZFS. You name it, it’s here, such as:

• Support of multiple RAID configurations
• SSD Caching and SSD storage pools
• Support of Write Once Read Many (WORM)
• BTRFS or EXT4 volumes
• Two-factor authentication and a dedicated MFA app
• Client sync tools
• A multi-tiered and multi-platform backup app
• AI-powered photo recognition tool
• DLNA/UPnP multimedia streaming server app
• Container deployment app
• Virtual machine tool
• Surveillance camera application
• Native browser file explorer
• Dedicated mobile app for iOS and Android to control the system

Expanded Key Features and Improvements in TOS 6

• Linux Kernel 6.1 LTS Upgrade: Transitioning to the latest Linux kernel version, TOS 6 benefits from improved scheduling algorithms, enhanced memory management, superior file system support, optimized network performance, advanced security features, and better power management. This upgrade facilitates a more robust and efficient system, capable of handling the demands of both home and enterprise environments with ease.

• Revolutionized Docker Manager 2.0.16: This release introduces Docker Compose project management, adding a new dimension to container orchestration on TNAS devices. The addition of a container terminal and system notifications for Docker image operations streamlines container management. These enhancements, combined with UI and functionality optimizations, cater to developers and IT professionals seeking a versatile platform for containerized applications.

• File Manager Overhaul: With user feedback and industry best practices in mind, the File Manager has been retooled to offer an intuitive, efficient file navigation and management experience. Features such as enhanced directory navigation, column display mode for deep folder hierarchy exploration, tabbed browsing, adjustable thumbnail sizes, and a suite of new file operation tools significantly elevate user productivity.

• Online Disk Wiping: This new utility offers a straightforward solution for securely erasing all data from disks directly within the TOS interface, facilitating easy preparation of drives for repurposing or disposal without the need for external tools.
• Cloud Drive Mounting: Seamlessly integrate cloud storage services such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and more directly into TNAS. This feature enhances the flexibility of data access and management, allowing for efficient data synchronization and sharing between local and cloud storage.

• Security and Privacy Control (SPC): Introducing a robust security framework designed to prevent unauthorized execution of programs on TNAS devices. SPC enhances the overall security posture by ensuring only vetted and authorized applications can run, significantly reducing the risk of malware and ransomware infections.

• SMB Multichannel Support: By enabling multiple network connections for SMB file sharing, TOS 6 ensures higher data transfer speeds, improved reliability, and enhanced redundancy. This feature is particularly beneficial in multi-user environments where network performance directly impacts productivity.
• Direct Data Drive Mounting: Offering unparalleled convenience, this feature allows users to access data on external drives without the need for disk reformatting or repartitioning, preserving existing data while extending the storage capabilities of TNAS devices.
• Storage Pool Migration: Streamlines the process of migrating storage pools between TNAS devices, aiding users in hardware upgrades or replacements without the hassle of data migration or system reconfiguration.
• Advanced ACL Permissions: Delivers granular access control with 13 additional customizable permissions on top of the standard read, write, and deny options. This advanced permission management system enables precise control over data access, ensuring data security and compliance.

TOS 6 System Enhancements

TOS 6 introduces a slew of system-wide enhancements aimed at delivering a more stable, secure, and user-friendly NAS operating environment:

• Performance and Stability: With the new Linux kernel and system optimizations, TOS 6 offers improved system stability and performance, ensuring that TNAS devices can handle intensive tasks and larger volumes of data more efficiently.
• Hardware and Innovation Support: Prepared for the future, TOS 6 includes support for the latest hardware innovations, such as Intel’s “Meteor Lake” chips, and introduces new data structures and error decoding capabilities for enhanced data processing and system reliability.
• Enhanced Security Measures: Building upon TerraMaster’s commitment to security, new features like customizable HTTPS certificates, optimized firewall rule settings, and the innovative SPC module significantly enhance the protection of user data against external threats.
• User Interface and Usability Improvements: From a streamlined desktop design and simplified navigation to a new “Start” menu and customizable user avatars, TOS 6 focuses on creating a more engaging and personalized user experience.
• Comprehensive Application and Service Enhancements: The update enriches the application ecosystem with new functionalities, improved file services, and advanced storage features, catering to a wide range of user needs from media indexing and scheduled task notifications to cross-platform data interoperability and USB storage device health management.

Through these extensive features and improvements, TOS 6 not only advances the capabilities of TNAS devices but also sets a new standard for NAS operating systems, offering a sophisticated platform for storage, management, and security that meets the evolving needs of both individual and enterprise users. If you want to learn more about TOS, you can watch the TOS 5 review from NASCompares below OR you can read the FULL TOS 5 Review HERE:

Despite practically every modern NAS software appliance now being available or supported on TOS 6, it has to be stated that it still lags behind Synology in terms of software responsiveness, cohesion, and presentation in the UX across different apps at any given time, and just always feels a little bit more hurried than Synology DSM. Synology pushes the majority of their finances into the development of their software platform, massively to their credit, but this does result in the general held opinion that the Synology hardware tends to be a little bit safer and a little less exciting. Terramaster has clearly tried to find something more of a middle ground between the two, and instead provide fully featured software that, although you will need to be patient at times, still gets the job done and is still very responsive and vibrant.

Finally, it’s worth keeping in mind that Terramaster does not object to or withhold hardware warranty from users who want to go ahead and install third-party NAS software on their systems. That means that if you still don’t find Terramaster’s TOS 6 software to your liking, you can go ahead and install the likes of TrueNAS SCALE or UnRAID and take advantage of those! The system has that internal USB with the TOS bootloader, so you can always reinstate TOS at any time. Hell, if you just remove the SSD and install a third-party operating system, and down the line, you want to return to the Terramaster software, you can just reinstall the SSDs you removed earlier, and the system will go back to its original Terramaster TOS deployment with ease. I’m not suggesting that Terramaster should get any kind of credit for the likes of TrueNAS or UnRAID, but I do think it’s worth highlighting that some brands do have a tendency to withhold hardware warranty support if you choose to install a third-party OS on your hardware. So I’m pleased to see that Terramaster are sticking with supporting third-party operating system use.

Terramaster F8 SSD PLUS NAS Review – Conclusion and Verdict

You really have to give Terramaster credit here for this system. With so many brands trying to enter the world of dedicated flash SSD storage in the last year or so, the F8 SSD Plus is hands down one of the most impressively designed options out there. Somehow arriving with more storage than most options out there, whilst also being the smallest. Long-time storage veterans are definitely going to ponder temperatures and operational heat when the system has been up and running for long periods of time, but Terramaster has clearly factored this in too with a vast amount of tactical heatsink placement, angled airflow, and painfully necessary SSD performance reductions in order to stop the cart before the horse bolts in terms of heat! The Terramaster F8 SSD Plus is by no means a perfect SSD NAS! Not by a long shot in fact! As long as you keep it realistic in terms of what you expect an eight-bay SSD system of this scale and price point to be able to do, I do not think you will be disappointed! Just make sure to remember that this is not an enterprise piece of kit, and is geared far more towards the prosumer, the enthusiast, and perhaps the small/medium business user.

Content creators, photographers, videographers, and those that want to manage a fast-moving database in a small group of users are definitely going to feel the benefits of the F8 SSD Plus. But the absence of higher-tier business features in terms of hardware, such as ECC memory and no network failover out of the box, are going to be a pain for those bigger users that have bigger demands. The TOS 6 software is, on the whole, better than it’s ever been in terms of feature set, functionality, and responsiveness. I am still not really in love with the “Windows 11” aesthetic, and definitely miss the TOS 5 desktop style that has become something of a staple of the NAS software industry, but I’m sure I’ll get used to it. At this point, there really are very few things available in the NAS market in terms of software that are not available here. A flexible RAID system in T-Raid, support of BTRFS, a multi-tiered backup software, multiple client tools, support of Write Once Read Many, volume encryption, two-factor authentication, isolation mode, the list goes on and on. It would be easy to critique the system in saying that it lacks ZFS (with numerous inline features that really benefit SSD use), but then you also remember that Terramaster allows users to use third-party operating systems like UnRAID and TrueNAS, which means that these are not completely off the table anyway!

Overall, I’ve got to say that the Terramaster F8 SSD Plus is a fantastically capable, affordable, and impressive desktop flash NAS system, and in a growing competitive marketplace for these kinds of devices, Terramaster has done a phenomenal job in their introduction of a new SSD-targeted solution in their portfolio. It may lack some of the software pizzazz of a Synology or aggressive hardware of a QNAP, but it manages to do its own thing very well, and as long as you keep your expectations realistic, this is a phenomenal NAS for 2024/2025.

Need More Help Choosing the right NAS?

Choosing the right data storage solution for your needs can be very intimidating and it’s never too late to ask for help. With options ranging from NAS to DAS, Thunderbolt to SAS and connecting everything up so you can access all your lovely data at the touch of a button can be a lot simpler than you think. If you want some tips, guidance or help with everything from compatibility to suitability of a solution for you, why not drop me a message below and I will get back to you as soon as possible with what you should go for, its suitability and the best place to get it. This service is designed without profit in mind and in order to help you with your data storage needs, so I will try to answer your questions as soon as possible.

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How to Restore Video Station and HEVC Support on DSM 7.2.2

The latest Synology DSM 7.2.2 update has removed Video Station and transcoding features, causing a stir among users who rely on their Synology NAS for multimedia playback. Without these features, streaming high-quality videos, especially those in HEVC (H.265) format, has become challenging. However, there are ways to restore Video Station and HEVC support on DSM 7.2.2. This article will guide you through the steps and provide insights from the community on handling these changes.

IMPORTANT – The steps detailed in this walkthrough are not strictly within the recommended usage and guarantee of your Synology NAS. These steps involve using SSH commands and downloading software packages from 3rd party sources. This therefore has the potential to invalidate your warranty and support from Synology, as you would be using the system in a way that is not recommended or endorsed by the brand. Failure to safely/correctly use SSH/Terminal commands, as well as installing packages from 3rd party providers opens the door to rendering your system in an unsafe stay OR bricking your system entirely. Additionally, I would not be surprised if Synology changes their mind on Video station (following negative feedback) and either continue to maintain the package into DSM 7.2.2 onwards at a later date, or at the very least postpone it’s removal.

Why Was Video Station Removed in DSM 7.2.2?

Synology’s decision to remove Video Station and server-side transcoding in DSM 7.2.2 aims to offload processing tasks from the NAS to end devices. This change is intended to enhance system efficiency by reducing unnecessary resource usage. However, it means that only specific NAS models (like the DVA series) will retain transcoding capabilities. For most users, this change results in limited support for popular codecs such as HEVC (H.265), AVC (H.264), and VC-1, affecting the ability to stream high-definition and 4K content seamlessly.

Issues Encountered with DSM 7.2.2

Users have reported various playback issues with Video Station after updating to DSM 7.2.2:

1. Smooth Playback for Some Formats: Standard video formats, like 2GB 720p BluRay H264 AAC and 3GB 1080p WEBRip x264 AAC 5.1, play without issues.
2. Problems with 4K and High-Definition Content: Higher quality videos, such as 5GB 2160p 4K BluRay x265 10bit AAC 5.1, do not start playing and display a spinning red circle, indicating buffering. Larger files with advanced audio codecs, like 64GB 2160p BluRay x265 10bit SDR DTS-HD MA TrueHD 7.1 Atmos, either fail to play or show unsupported format errors.
3. HEVC Playback: Some users have managed to get HEVC playback working, but only after applying specific patches or downgrading certain Synology packages.

How to Restore Video Station on DSM 7.2.2

Despite the official removal, you can still restore Video Station on DSM 7.2.2 using a script developed by the Synology community. Here’s how:

1. Download the Script: Visit GitHub and download the script provided by user 007Reward. GitHub Link
2. Enable SSH on Your Synology NAS: SSH access is required to run the script. Go to the Control Panel on your Synology NAS, enable SSH, and make sure to disable it once the installation is complete for security reasons.
3. Run the Script: Use the SSH command line to navigate to the directory where the script is saved and execute it using the command:
   sudo sh /volume1/scripts/install_videostation.sh

4. Configure HEVC Support: After installing Video Station, ensure that the HEVC codec is enabled. Some users have reported success by rolling back to an older version of the Advanced Media Extensions (AME) or using specific patches to support missing codecs.

Community Workarounds and Tips

• Codec Patcher: For those struggling with specific codecs (like DTS, EAC3, or TrueHD), there is a codec patcher available on GitHub that can help restore support for these formats. VideoStation FFMPEG Patcher
• Use Third-Party Media Servers: With the removal of Video Station, some users are turning to alternatives like Plex, Jellyfin, or Emby. These third-party apps offer more robust media management features and support a wider range of codecs. Plex, for example, is known for its comprehensive transcoding capabilities, which can handle various formats and resolutions.
• Consider MediaStack: MediaStack is an all-in-one Docker-based media server solution that integrates Jellyfin, Plex, and other media applications. It provides a streamlined way to manage and access media content, with options for secure remote access. This setup is particularly useful for users looking to replace Synology’s native apps with more flexible and powerful tools. MediaStack Guide

Conclusion

The removal of Video Station and transcoding in DSM 7.2.2 has undoubtedly created challenges for Synology NAS users, particularly those who rely on these features for seamless multimedia playback. However, thanks to the active Synology community, there are solutions to restore these capabilities and ensure that your NAS can still handle high-quality video streaming. Whether through scripts, third-party applications, or alternative media stacks, users have options to maintain the functionality they need.

Additional Resources

• Synology Release Notes
• GitHub Script to Restore Video Station
• VideoStation FFMPEG Patcher
• MediaStack Guide

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The Terramaster F8 SSD and F8 SSD PLUS Hardware Revealed

The Terramaster F8 SSD and F8 SSD PLUS NAS devices represent notable advancements in NAS storage solutions, designed for both small business and domestic applications. These models integrate high performance, versatile storage options, and advanced software features within a compact and portable design. Priced at $599.99 for the F8 SSD and $799.00 for the F8 SSD PLUS, they offer a range of capabilities suited to various user needs. This detailed analysis covers their design, ports/connections, internal hardware, software, performance, and concludes with an overall assessment.

Terramaster F8 SSD Design

The F8 SSD and F8 SSD PLUS are known for their sleek, compact designs. Each device is roughly the size of a paperback novel, making them easy to place in various environments, such as office desks, home shelves, or even portable setups for travel. Their lightweight nature, comparable to two cell phones, enhances their portability. Despite their small size, these NAS devices incorporate efficient cooling mechanisms, including upper and lower convection, heat sinks on each SSD, and silent fans, which help maintain low temperatures and reduced noise levels, with standby noise virtually imperceptible at less than 19dB.

Terramaster F8 SSD Ports/Connections

Both models are equipped with a variety of ports and connections to facilitate integration into diverse IT environments. Below is a table summarizing the ports and connections available on both models:

These ports and connections enable the NAS devices to support high-speed network connectivity, extensive external storage options, and multimedia applications, providing versatility for various professional and personal uses.

Terramaster F8 SSD Internal Hardware

Internally, the Terramaster F8 SSD and F8 SSD PLUS have hardware configurations intended to deliver reliable performance. Below is a table outlining the key hardware specifications for both models:

The F8 SSD utilizes an Intel N95 4-core, 4-thread CPU with a maximum burst frequency of 3.4GHz, supported by 8GB of DDR5 memory. The F8 SSD PLUS features an Intel Core i3 N305 8-core, 8-thread processor with a turbo frequency of up to 3.8GHz and comes with 16GB of DDR5 memory. Both models support hardware encryption and 4K video transcoding.

Terramaster TOS Software

The Terramaster F8 SSD and F8 SSD PLUS operate on the TOS 6 operating system, which enhances their functionality and user experience. TOS 6 introduces over 40 new features and optimizes more than 370 details. It supports a wide range of client OS, including Windows, Mac, and Linux, as well as mobile OS like iOS and Android. Key software capabilities include:

• Comprehensive RAID Support: Supports TRAID, TRAID Plus, Single, JBOD, RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, and RAID 10, offering flexible storage configuration options.
• Snapshot Services: Provides easy recovery of data in case of accidental deletion or modification.
• Centralized Backup Solutions: Facilitates backup management for Windows workstations, file servers, and virtual machines.
• Cloud Synchronization: Synchronizes with major cloud services like Google Drive, OneDrive, Amazon S3, Dropbox, Baidu, and Alibaba Cloud.
• Advanced File Management: Includes file protocol support (SMB/AFP/NFS/FTP/SFTP/WebDAV), user quota management, and extensive access right management.

These software features ensure that the NAS devices can meet diverse data management needs, from data protection to file synchronization across multiple platforms.

Terramaster F8 Performance

The performance of the Terramaster F8 SSD and F8 SSD PLUS is generally solid, attributed to their hardware and software. The F8 SSD achieves linear read-write speeds of up to 1020MB/s and 4K random read-write speeds of up to 300MB/s, making it suitable for applications such as virtualization, database management, and multimedia streaming. The F8 SSD PLUS, with its more advanced Intel Core i3 processor and 16GB of memory, performs better for intensive tasks and high-load workflows. However, the 4K random write speeds, while respectable, may be a bit underwhelming for an NVMe SSD over a 10GbE network. The 300MB/s+ write speed indicates a potential internal bottleneck, possibly due to the PCIe or PCIe controller. This limitation suggests that while the devices perform well, they may not fully utilize the potential of NVMe SSDs in all scenarios, especially in write-heavy applications.

The Terramaster F8 SSD and F8 SSD PLUS NAS devices provide robust storage solutions with a combination of high performance, versatile connectivity, and advanced software features. Their compact design, efficient cooling, and noise reduction technologies make them suitable for both small businesses and home users. The extensive ports and connections, solid internal hardware, and robust software capabilities ensure these NAS devices can handle a wide range of professional and personal data management needs. Despite some limitations in write performance, they offer reliable and high-speed storage options. These NAS devices are a reasonable choice for users seeking efficient and capable storage solutions, though those requiring maximum write performance might need to consider potential bottlenecks.

Need More Help Choosing the right NAS?

Choosing the right data storage solution for your needs can be very intimidating and it’s never too late to ask for help. With options ranging from NAS to DAS, Thunderbolt to SAS and connecting everything up so you can access all your lovely data at the touch of a button can be a lot simpler than you think. If you want some tips, guidance or help with everything from compatibility to suitability of a solution for you, why not drop me a message below and I will get back to you as soon as possible with what you should go for, its suitability and the best place to get it. This service is designed without profit in mind and in order to help you with your data storage needs, so I will try to answer your questions as soon as possible.

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Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions

If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

 

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Synology DSM 7.2.2 Update: A Major Shift in Multimedia Support

In the conversation about DSM 7.2.2, specific details were discussed regarding SSD volumes (or SSD pools) and their behavior after the update:

1. Compatibility Issues with SSD Volumes:
   • After updating to DSM 7.2.2, one user, kaj, reported that their NAS began beeping continuously and displayed a message indicating that the drives in Volume 2 (an SSD volume) were incompatible. This issue prevented access to Volume 2.
   • The NAS system flagged the SSDs as incompatible post-update, which is a common issue when using non-Synology or third-party SSDs in certain NAS models, especially after major DSM updates that might change how the system handles hardware compatibility.
2. Using Compatibility Scripts:
   • To resolve this issue, kaj had a script set up to handle compatibility with HDD/SSD drives, which was intended to run at startup. However, even with this script, the drives were not recognized after the update.
   • Kaj downloaded an updated version of the compatibility script and set it as a startup task. After implementing the updated script and rebooting the NAS, the system recognized the SSDs, and access to Volume 2 was restored.
3. General Advice and Observations:
   • The issue discussed highlights the importance of having updated scripts or workarounds in place, particularly for users who modify their NAS setups with non-standard components or configurations. The update to DSM 7.2.2 might have altered how the system checks for drive compatibility, necessitating updated scripts to ensure continued operation of SSD volumes.
   • Another participant, FrostByte, noted that their specific model (DS1821+) did not require any hacks or scripts to recognize SSD volumes, suggesting that the impact of the update on SSD compatibility might vary between different NAS models or setups.
4. Performance and Management of SSD Volumes:
   • While not explicitly detailed in the provided conversation snippets, the general concerns around SSD volume management post-update likely relate to maintaining performance and ensuring that the NAS can effectively use SSDs for tasks such as caching, storing high-demand data, or running applications that benefit from faster storage access.

Version: 7.2.2-72803

Important Note

1. After installing this update, you will not be able to downgrade to a previous DSM version.
2. This update will restart your Synology NAS.
3. For the models below, you can only download the upgrade patch from Synology Download Center because you won’t receive notifications for this update on your DSM.
   • FS Series: FS3017, FS2017, FS1018
   • XS Series: RS18016xs+, RS4017xs+, RS3617xs+, RS3617xs, RS3617RPxs, RS18017xs+, DS3617xs, DS3617xsII, DS3018xs
   • Plus Series: RS2416RP+, RS2416+, DS916+, DS716+II, DS716+, DS216+II, DS216+, DS1817+, DS1517+, RS2818RP+, RS2418RP+, RS2418+, RS818RP+, RS818+, DS1618+, DS918+, DS718+, DS218+, RS1219+
   • Value Series: DS416, DS416play, DS216, DS216play, DS116, RS816, DS1817, DS1517, RS217, DS418play
   • J Series: DS416slim, DS416j, DS216j, DS418j, DS218j, DS419slim, DS119j
4. Starting from this version, the processing of media files using HEVC (H.265), AVC (H.264), and VC-1 codecs will be transitioned from the server to end devices to reduce unnecessary resource usage on the system and enhance system efficiency. These codecs are widespread on end devices such as smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs. If the end device does not support the required codecs, the use of media files may be limited. Refer to this article for workarounds. In addition, please note the following exceptions:
   • Surveillance Station on DSM will continue to support server-side processing of AVC (H.264) streams, see the release notes.
   • Deep Video Analytics (DVA) series models and VisualStation clients will retain support for AVC (H.264) and HEVC (H.265) codecs.
5. To ensure package compatibility, Advanced Media Extensions (AME), File Station, Media Server, Surveillance Station, Synology Drive, Universal Search, Synology Photos and Snapshot Replication will automatically update to the latest version.
6. Video Station is not available on DSM 7.2.2. Refer to this article for workarounds to stream videos to end devices.
7. Updated Storage Manager to 1.0.0-00502 to fix issues. For more information, see the release notes.

Compatibility & Installation

1. The following third-party packages are currently incompatible with DSM 7.2.2. Compatible package versions will be released in the future, and this list will be updated accordingly:
   • BRAVIA Signage
   • TeamViewer

What’s New

1. Added support for selecting whether to verify response or assertion signatures for SAML SSO clients.
2. Supports customization of package installation, upgrade, and uninstallation wizards for third-party package developers. Learn more

Fixed Issues

1. Enhanced protection against deletion of immutable snapshots.
2. Enhanced file system error recoverability.
3. Fixed an issue where backing up WriteOnce shared folders in Hyper Backup might occupy extra space.
4. Enhanced the performance of Thick Provisioned LUNs when the volume is nearly full.
5. Enhanced file search performance when there are a large number of files with the same name.
6. Fixed an issue where restarting the system during an entire system backup could prevent volumes from mounting properly.
7. Fixed an issue where scheduled tasks of emptying recycle bins might fail to delete folders only containing the “desktop.ini” file.
8. Fixed an issue where triggering Adaptive MFA or entering incorrect account credentials might cause the auto block function to count login attempts abnormally.
9. Fixed an issue where users might not be able to set up OTP for login.
10. Fixed an issue where uploading IdP metadata might fail when setting up SAML SSO clients.
11. Fixed an issue where users might not return to DS cam or DS finder after using OIDC SSO login.
12. Fixed an issue where users might not receive emails with emergency codes when using 2FA for DSM login.
13. Fixed an issue where data synchronization might fail when creating backup or replication tasks to a remote target server via Snapshot Replication, Hyper Backup, or other packages.
14. Fixed an issue where login might fail when creating backup or replication tasks to a remote target server via Snapshot Replication, Hyper Backup, or other packages.
15. Fixed an issue where OpenVPN might fail to disable gateways.
16. Fixed an issue where using SAML SSO for DSM login might fail if the IdP’s response was too long.
17. Fixed an issue where the system might become unresponsive when setting up OIDC SSO clients.
18. Fixed an issue where Resource Monitor might display abnormal connection times in Connections > Connected Users.
19. Fixed an issue where users might not be able to use a hardware security key for DSM login.
20. Fixed a security vulnerability regarding ghostscript (CVE-2024-29510).
21. Fixed security vulnerabilities regarding netatalk (CVE-2024-38439, CVE-2024-38440, CVE-2024-38441).
22. Fixed a security vulnerability regarding Terrapin Attack (CVE-2023-48795).
23. Fixed a security vulnerability regarding glibc (CVE-2023-4911).

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

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If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

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Synology EOL Video Station in the DSM 7.2.2. Update – Why, How, When and Should You Care?

I generally don’t make a big song and dance whenever Synology’s more incremental software updates arrive. If you really get into the statistics of the matter, Synology rolls out numerous smaller updates throughout the year to their popular DSM platform. However, I am definitely making a big exception with DSM 7.2.2. Although this update features a vast number of security patches against widespread vulnerabilities in the Linux/network landscape, the big change in Synology that we need to talk about is the reduced support for VC1 and HEVC, and the retirement of Synology Video Station. Also, DSM 7.2.2 is a staged rollout, which means a gradual deployment across different regions and systems. There are users waking up this morning who, upon wanting to update their system to the latest DSM software patch, are being greeted with the notice that doing so will effectively kill the use of Synology Video Station on their system. So, what is this all about? Why has Synology retired one of their flagship applications? What is the impact, and what are the alternatives?

Synology DSM 7.2.2 and Video Station – What Happened?

When Synology DSM 7.2.2 was announced as available for update, it was already very clear in the release notes from the brand that they were diminishing support for specific compression codecs and the first-party video streaming application from Synology. It is worth highlighting that updating to DSM 7.2.2 is not mandatory, and DSM 7.2.1 will continue to be available and supported for use on systems. However, this does mark the death knell for Video Station in the long term on Synology DSM. As mentioned earlier, although this is a staged rollout, a large number of systems have already rolled out with support for this update. Regardless of whether you are using a NAS that supports integrated graphics and more capable multimedia handling, or even basic ARM processor systems that didn’t really have transcoding functionality to reduce in the first place, this is definitely all going to add up to Video Station disappearing.

Which Synology NAS Devices Support the DSM 7.2.2 Update?

The DSM 7.2.2 update is available for a wide range of Synology NAS devices, covering different models and hardware configurations. Users can check if their device is eligible for the update by visiting the Synology download section. As of the latest information, the update supports models like the DS923+, DS910+, DS224+, DS1522+, RS422, DS120j+, and many others across the DiskStation, RackStation, and even FlashStation lines. This update is part of Synology’s strategy to ensure that both older and newer devices can leverage improved security and functionality. However, users must be aware that updating their system could have implications, particularly for applications like Video Station.

The following NAS support DSM 7.2.2 (27/09/24):

DS1019+, DS116, DS118, DS119j, DS120j, DS124, DS1517+, DS1517, DS1520+, DS1522+, DS1618+, DS1621+, DS1621xs+, DS1817+, DS1817, DS1819+, DS1821+, DS1823xs+, DS216+, DS216, DS216+II, DS216j, DS216play, DS218+, DS218, DS218j, DS218play, DS220+, DS220j, DS223, DS223j, DS224+, DS2419+, DS2419+II, DS2422+, DS3018xs, DS3617xs, DS3617xsII, DS3622xs+, DS416, DS416j, DS416play, DS416slim, DS418, DS418j, DS418play, DS419slim, DS420+, DS420j, DS423+, DS423, DS620slim, DS716+, DS716+II, DS718+, DS720+, DS723+, DS916+, DS918+, DS920+, DS923+, DVA1622, DVA3219, DVA3221, FS1018, FS2017, FS2500, FS3017, FS3400, FS3410, FS3600, FS6400, RS1219+, RS1221+, RS1221RP+, RS1619xs+, RS18016xs+, RS18017xs+, RS217, RS2416+, RS2416RP+, RS2418+, RS2418RP+, RS2421+, RS2421RP+, RS2423+, RS2423RP+, RS2818RP+, RS2821RP+, RS3617RPxs, RS3617xs+, RS3617xs, RS3618xs, RS3621RPxs, RS3621xs+, RS4017xs+, RS4021xs+, RS422+, RS816, RS818+, RS818RP+, RS819, RS820+, RS820RP+, RS822+, RS822RP+, SA3200D, SA3400, SA3400D, SA3410, SA3600, SA3610, SA6400.

These models are currently compatible with DSM 7.2.2, and users can manually update their systems. For more information on downloading the update and checking compatibility, please visit the Synology download section.

Why Has Synology Diminished Support for VC1 and HEVC, as well as EOL’ing Video Station?

Synology’s decision to diminish support for VC1 and HEVC codecs and retire Video Station appears to be driven by a combination of factors:

1. Cost of Licensing: Supporting codecs like VC1 and HEVC requires paying for licenses. With more modern hardware devices supporting these codecs natively, Synology is reducing unnecessary expenses by focusing on codecs that are universally required. This move also aligns with their aim to make their NAS devices more cost-effective and energy-efficient.
2. Shifting Workloads to Client Devices: By reducing support for these codecs, Synology is effectively shifting the processing workload from the NAS to client devices. This is feasible as many modern devices, including smart TVs, phones, and tablets, now have the hardware to handle these codecs natively. Users can refer to the Synology Knowledge Base on how to handle unsupported formats with their NAS: I cannot view HEVC (H.265), AVC (H.264), VC-1 videos, and HEIC photos on my Synology NAS. What can I do?.
3. Streamlining Software Offerings: Maintaining a wide range of first-party applications can be resource-intensive. By retiring Video Station, Synology can focus on core applications and services that provide broader value to their user base, such as enhanced security features and better cloud integration. This shift allows them to suggest third-party alternatives like Plex and Emby, which are already robust solutions in the multimedia streaming space.

Who Is Impacted?

The most affected by these changes will be users who relied on Synology Video Station for their multimedia streaming. This includes users who have invested in Synology’s ecosystem for its seamless integration of multimedia management with other NAS functionalities. Home users, especially those using older NAS devices without native codec support, may face challenges in playing back HEVC and VC1 content. Additionally, users who are not comfortable or familiar with third-party solutions may find the transition to apps like Plex or Emby less straightforward. Media sharing/distribution related businesses that relied on Video Station for internal media sharing and management might also be impacted. They will need to consider the licensing costs and management of new third-party solutions. For specific model support and user guides, users can explore more in the DSM 7.2.2 release notes.

What Are the Alternatives?

With the retirement of Video Station, Synology has recommended that users migrate to third-party applications like Plex Media Server or Emby. These platforms offer extensive multimedia capabilities and support a wide range of devices. Users looking to transition can find the necessary downloads here:

• Plex for ARMv7: Download Link
• Plex for ARMv8: Download Link
• Plex for Intel/AMD 64-bit: Download Link

For users who prefer not to use Plex, Emby and Jellyfin are viable alternatives. Emby offers a range of features similar to Plex but with a different pricing model, often appealing to users seeking flexibility. Jellyfin, being open-source, provides similar functionalities without subscription costs, though it may require more manual setup.

How Are Other Apps Affected? (Synology Photos and Synology Surveillance Station)

The reduction in codec support also impacts other Synology applications, notably Synology Photos and Synology Surveillance Station.

Synology Photos: Users who upload HEIC photos and HEVC (H.265) videos may find that these formats are not displayed correctly in Synology Photos after updating to DSM 7.2.2. To address this issue, Synology has introduced the Synology Image Assistant, which can be installed as a desktop app or browser extension, or enabled via the Synology Photos mobile app version 2.1.0 or above. This assistant helps generate previews and compressed versions of files, which are more compatible across different devices and browsers. For more details, users can refer to this guide: I can’t preview HEIC/HEIF files in Synology Drive web portal. What can I do?.

Synology Surveillance Station: The reduced support for HEVC affects how video is processed within Surveillance Station. Although Surveillance Station continues to support server-side processing of AVC (H.264) streams, the handling of H.265 streams may require adjustments, particularly for those using DS cam. Synology has provided documentation outlining these changes and how users can adapt: What functions will be adjusted due to the change in support for H.265 on Surveillance Station and DS cam?.

What Else Does Synology DSM 7.2.2 Include?

Aside from the major changes regarding Video Station and codec support, DSM 7.2.2 brings several other enhancements and features aimed at improving the overall user experience and security of Synology NAS systems. Here are some key updates:

1. Enhanced Security Features: DSM 7.2.2 introduces numerous security patches to protect against newly identified vulnerabilities in the Linux and network environments. These updates are crucial in safeguarding user data against potential threats, ensuring that the NAS system remains a reliable and secure storage solution.
2. Improved Storage Management: The update brings enhancements to the storage management system, offering better performance, stability, and monitoring capabilities. Users will find it easier to manage storage pools, disks, and volume configurations, thanks to refined interfaces and more detailed reporting options.
3. Expanded Compatibility and Support: DSM 7.2.2 includes updates to improve compatibility with a wider range of hardware and software. This includes better integration with cloud services, support for newer file formats and protocols, and optimizations for existing applications. For specific information about compatibility and supported models, users can refer to the DSM 7.2.2 release notes.
4. Performance Optimizations: This update includes several performance enhancements, particularly for SSD caching and NVMe storage pools. These improvements help maximize the efficiency of data processing and access speeds, which is essential for high-demand applications such as virtualization, database management, and media streaming.
5. Updated File Sharing and Collaboration Tools: DSM 7.2.2 continues to build on the strengths of Synology’s collaboration suite, with refinements to Synology Drive, Office, and Chat. These updates include better file sharing capabilities, more intuitive user interfaces, and enhanced security measures for collaborative work environments.
6. Refined Backup and Data Protection Options: Backup solutions like Hyper Backup and Snapshot Replication receive updates in DSM 7.2.2, providing users with more flexible scheduling options, improved data integrity checks, and quicker recovery processes. This ensures that business-critical data is always protected and can be restored with minimal downtime.

For a comprehensive list of all the changes and new features in DSM 7.2.2, users can explore the detailed release notes.

What Does This Mean for Synology in the Long Term?

In the long term, Synology’s decision to retire Video Station and reduce support for specific codecs could indicate a broader strategic shift. By focusing on core services and integrating more with third-party solutions, Synology may be aiming to streamline its offerings, reduce operational complexity, and focus on areas where they can offer distinctive value, such as security, backup, and enterprise storage solutions.

However, this strategy also poses risks. Users who valued the comprehensive, integrated Synology ecosystem might start exploring alternatives if they feel that Synology is moving away from providing an all-in-one solution. The recommendation to use third-party applications like Plex or Emby might lead users to look beyond Synology for other NAS functionalities, especially if they find these third-party solutions more flexible or feature-rich.

Synology must balance streamlining its offerings with maintaining the loyalty of its user base. As the company moves forward, it will be crucial to clearly communicate the benefits of these changes, provide seamless migration paths, and ensure that their core offerings remain strong and competitive in the NAS market. By doing so, Synology can continue to uphold its reputation as a leader in the network-attached storage industry while adapting to the evolving needs of its users.

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QNAP TS-632X NAS Drive Review – REAL Value?

With the ongoing development of private NAS servers, many users are seeking to move their personal or business data away from third-party cloud services. You might expect that each new generation of NAS devices would be increasingly powerful. While it’s true that there are more capable devices on the market, there is also a growing demand for efficiency. As we approach a point where electricity bills are a concern, alongside the powerhouse units that make headlines, we see systems designed to offer maximum performance on a minimal hardware footprint. These products promise lower price tags, reduced running costs, and robust support, making them attractive for a wide range of users.

Into this evolving landscape steps the QNAP TS-632X, an ARM-powered NAS that boasts dual 10GbE connectivity, support for ECC memory, and PCIe expandability. The idea that this system can manage even half of what it promises while running on a power-efficient ARM CPU is impressive. We first encountered this system at the Computex 2024 trade show in Taipei, where it immediately caught our eye due to its impressive feature set. But now that it’s available, does it live up to the hype? Is this lean, mean 10G NAS machine capable of handling your data storage needs? Let’s dive in and find out.

QNAP TS-632X Review – Quick Conclusion

The QNAP TS-632X is not a NAS that will win awards for sheer processing power, but that was never its purpose. As one of the most capable ARM-powered NAS devices available, it provides a compelling mix of features at a competitive price point. For $699-$749, you get a 6-bay NAS with dual 10GbE ports, support for ECC memory, and PCIe expandability, offering a scalable solution perfect for small to medium businesses or advanced home users who need high-speed data access. However, there are some caveats. The lack of ECC memory in the base model feels like a missed opportunity, and the ARM processor does limit some high-end applications. Write speeds could also be better, but as long as you’re aware of these limitations, the TS-632X delivers on its promises without overextending itself. With thoughtful design and a focus on energy efficiency, it’s a refreshing option in a market crowded with less impressive ARM-based devices. For users who need efficient, reliable storage with excellent network capabilities and scalability, the TS-632X is a solid choice. It may not handle the most demanding tasks, but it excels in providing consistent, reliable performance for everyday NAS functions, making it a worthy addition to any small office or home setup.

SOFTWARE - 8/10

HARDWARE - 8/10

PERFORMANCE - 7/10

PRICE - 9/10

VALUE - 10/10

8.4

PROS

Dual 10GbE Ports: Provides high-speed network connectivity, enabling fast data transfer and reducing backup times, which is great for businesses with heavy data flow.
Energy Efficiency: Powered by an ARM-based processor, the TS-632X offers low power consumption, making it ideal for 24/7 operation without significantly impacting electricity bills.
Support for ECC Memory: Offers enhanced data integrity by supporting ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory, reducing the risk of data corruption, which is crucial for critical data storage.
Scalability: Includes a PCIe slot for expansion, allowing users to add additional network cards or SSDs, making it adaptable to growing network demands.
Affordable Pricing: Priced competitively between $699-$749, it offers a strong set of features without breaking the bank, providing excellent value for small to medium businesses.
Compact Design: Its tower form factor and relatively small footprint make it easy to fit into a variety of environments, from small offices to home setups.
Quiet Operation: Even when fully loaded, the TS-632X operates quietly, making it suitable for use in noise-sensitive environments like offices or shared spaces.
Versatile Storage Options: Supports both 3.5-inch HDDs and 2.5-inch SSDs, providing flexibility in balancing cost and performance for different storage needs.
Robust Software Ecosystem: Runs on QNAP\'s QTS operating system, which includes a wide range of apps for backup, synchronization, multimedia management, and more, catering to various business and personal needs.
Eco-Friendly Packaging: Uses fully recyclable packaging materials, demonstrating QNAP\'s commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact.

CONS

Base Model Lacks ECC Memory: Although the TS-632X supports ECC memory, the base model does not include it, requiring users to purchase additional RAM to take advantage of this feature.
Limited Processing Power: The ARM processor, while energy-efficient, limits the NAS\'s ability to handle resource-intensive tasks such as virtualization and high-end multimedia transcoding.
Only Two-Year Warranty: The standard warranty is relatively short for a device targeted at business use, where a longer warranty period (e.g., three years) would be more appropriate.
Write Performance Could Be Better: While read speeds are impressive, write speeds are somewhat lower, which might be a limitation for users who need high write throughput for applications like live video editing or large-scale data ingestion.

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QNAP TS-632X NAS Review – Packaging

Typically, I would gloss over packaging details in reviews since most users don’t find them particularly relevant, and packaging is usually a one-time interaction before it ends up as waste. However, QNAP’s approach to the TS-632X packaging is worth noting. The company has made significant strides in using eco-friendly materials, which are entirely recyclable. From the protective framework to the wrapping materials, everything is designed to be environmentally friendly.

This shift is a notable improvement because one of the main challenges with recyclable packaging is durability. Recyclable materials often can’t withstand the rigors of international shipping, leading to potential damage to the internal hardware. Such damage might not be immediately apparent, potentially causing long-term data loss if issues arise days, weeks, or even months after initial use. Kudos to QNAP for investing in robust, recyclable packaging that still protects the device during transit.

QNAP TS-632X NAS Review – Hardware Specifications

Before diving into the performance and capabilities of the TS-632X, it’s essential to understand what this device offers in terms of hardware. Here’s a detailed look at the key specifications:

QNAP TS-632X NAS Review – Performance and Features

The TS-632X stands out primarily due to its impressive network connectivity. Equipped with two 10GbE SFP+ ports and two 2.5GbE Ethernet ports, it provides up to 25Gbps of network bandwidth straight out of the box.

This high level of connectivity is vital for businesses that need to handle multiple simultaneous data streams or require high-speed data transfers. Moreover, the presence of a PCIe slot allows users to install additional network cards, further enhancing the system’s scalability. This feature makes the TS-632X highly adaptable, enabling users to upgrade their setup as their network demands grow.

Powered by an Annapurna Labs AL524 ARM quad-core processor running at 2.0GHz per core, the TS-632X is designed to be power-efficient while still providing adequate performance for typical NAS tasks. This ARM processor is not aimed at heavy computational tasks or graphic-intensive applications but is optimized for efficient data handling and low power consumption, making it ideal for 24/7 operation.

In tests with four 24TB drives in RAID 5, the device showed impressive energy efficiency, consuming just 26.2 watts on average during idle periods and around 54-55 watts under heavy load. These figures are excellent for a 6-bay NAS, ensuring that it remains cost-effective to run even in demanding environments.

Limitations of the ARM Processor?

While the TS-632X performs well for most NAS tasks, it’s important to recognize the limitations of its ARM processor. This system is not designed for heavy-duty applications like virtualization, Plex transcoding, or running resource-intensive Docker containers. Users looking for a NAS that can handle these tasks might need to consider a model with an x86 processor. However, for file storage, data backup, and light application hosting, the TS-632X offers robust performance without excessive power consumption.

Memory Configuration?

The TS-632X comes with 4GB of DDR4 RAM, which is sufficient for standard NAS operations. However, it can be upgraded to 16GB, allowing it to handle more demanding applications or a higher number of simultaneous users. A notable feature is its support for ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory, which is rare in ARM-based systems. ECC memory is crucial for environments where data integrity is paramount, as it helps detect and correct internal data corruption.

Unfortunately, the base model does not come with ECC memory, which feels like a missed opportunity. For a small additional cost, QNAP could have included ECC RAM, enhancing the system’s reliability right out of the box.

QNAP TS-632X NAS Review – Noise Levels

Given that the TS-632X is designed for small office or home use, noise levels are a critical consideration. Thanks to its ARM architecture and efficient cooling design, the TS-632X operates quietly.

When equipped with SSDs, the noise level drops to a whisper-quiet 22 dB during idle operation. Even with traditional hard drives, noise levels remain manageable, peaking at around 35-38 dB during intensive operations. This makes the TS-632X suitable for environments where noise could be a distraction, such as in a home office or a shared workspace.

QNAP TS-632X NAS Review – Real-World Performance

To evaluate the real-world performance of the TS-632X, we conducted a series of tests using both HDDs and SSDs. With four 24TB HDDs in RAID 5, the device achieved read speeds of up to 520 MB/s and write speeds of approximately 298 MB/s in various test scenarios.

While these speeds are impressive for an ARM-based NAS with HDDs, they don’t fully utilize the 10GbE connections. However, this performance is more than adequate for typical NAS tasks, such as file storage, backup, and media streaming.

Switching to SSDs significantly improved performance. With six 500GB SATA SSDs in a RAID 5 configuration, the TS-632X reached read speeds of up to 1.4 GB/s, with write speeds peaking at 538 MB/s. But in CrystalDisk we were able to hit 2GB/s.

These figures indicate that the TS-632X can handle more demanding tasks, such as video editing and large-scale data transfers, with ease. The dual 10GbE ports and support for SMB Multichannel ensure that multiple users can access data simultaneously without bottlenecks, making it an excellent choice for collaborative work environments.

QNAP TS-632X NAS Review – QTS NAS OS

The TS-632X runs on QNAP’s QTS operating system, a versatile and user-friendly platform that offers a wide range of applications. From backup and synchronization tools like Qsync and Hybrid Backup Sync to multimedia management with QuMagie, QTS provides a comprehensive suite of tools for managing and securing data. Although QTS on the TS-632X lacks support for some of the more demanding applications available on x86-based QNAP devices, it still covers about 70-80% of the QNAP App Center offerings. This includes essential business tools like QVR Elite for surveillance and various cloud backup solutions, making it suitable for most small business needs.

QNAP TS-632X NAS Review Conclusion

The QNAP TS-632X is not going to blow anyone’s socks off anytime soon in terms of power, and that was never really the point, was it? This might comfortably be the most capable ARM-powered NAS I have ever seen (at least in desktop form), and it is a genuinely impressive feat that QNAP managed to do this for this price tag and at this scale. The $699-$749 price tag is already pretty competitive for a 6-bay expandable desktop NAS. Once you factor in that this device features two 10GbE ethernet connections to really open up that network bandwidth, and a PCIe expansion slot that lets you choose further bandwidth expansions, further storage expansions, or a little bit of both with those QNAP QM2 expansion cards, you have an impressively scalable solution here.I can  only really give QNAP half points for its support of ECC memory here, as even though that is impressive for an ARM system, the fact that they don’t include ECC memory in the baseline model somewhat undercuts this advantage. QNAP has done a lot of work here optimizing their software as much as they can to do what it can on such a modest processor. And although QTS seemingly runs better here than I’ve seen it run on most ARM-powered NAS devices, the execution is still by no means flawless. They have had to clip its wings ever so slightly, removing some applications that were simply too demanding and need x86 processor support, or streamlining some other applications to be better suited to this rather more power-conservative environment. The majority of software issues I encountered were arguably in the early stages of setup, as the demands on the system hardware were at peak, but to be fair, these did alleviate over time as more domestic and pedestrian day-to-day usage became the norm.

Likewise, performance over the 10GbE connections on this device was not a huge surprise, given the processor, but that does mean that those of you considering this box for live file editing over 10GbE or for constantly updating databases might find this system a little lackluster. Whereas, those that need access to an existing database as quickly as possible, or are considerably more focused on read rather than write operations, are not going to have any problems, given the almost complete dual 10GbE saturation we achieved in some of our tests (and fair play to QNAP for not hiding their lower write performance numbers on their own product pages either). As long as you understand the implications of an ARM CPU on more vigorous write workloads, there is going to be very little that disappoints you in this system. It delivers on practically every one of its promises, and it does so without harming your energy bill much either. With so many subpar ARM NAS systems on the market, it is genuinely refreshing to be able to talk about one in such positive ways!

Need More Help Choosing the right NAS?

Choosing the right data storage solution for your needs can be very intimidating and it’s never too late to ask for help. With options ranging from NAS to DAS, Thunderbolt to SAS and connecting everything up so you can access all your lovely data at the touch of a button can be a lot simpler than you think. If you want some tips, guidance or help with everything from compatibility to suitability of a solution for you, why not drop me a message below and I will get back to you as soon as possible with what you should go for, its suitability and the best place to get it. This service is designed without profit in mind and in order to help you with your data storage needs, so I will try to answer your questions as soon as possible.

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A Step-by-Step Guide to Running UnRAID on a Ugreen NAS

Running UnRAID on a Ugreen NAS provides a flexible, feature-rich solution for managing your storage needs. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up UnRAID on your Ugreen NAS, from initial preparation and data backup to BIOS configuration and final setup. Unlike other operating systems, UnRAID runs directly from a USB drive, eliminating the need for an OS drive. Additionally, we provide an alternative method for installing third-party operating systems using the Ugreen NAS GUI and BIOS modifications.

Important – The UGREEN NAS Software is still in its first year of active development, following several months of Kickstarter crowdfunding. Therefore, the software is still in its early stages of development. It is a decent NAS operating system that the manufacturer assures users will see more and more AAA+ features added to it in a planned roadmap. So, I recommend taking some time with the UGOS NAS software before making a switch to a third-party OS. Additionally, UGREEN has made it clear that choosing to use a third-party NAS OS will not invalidate your hardware warranty, as long as the software does not negatively impact the hardware (e.g., overclocking the CPU to fry it, disabling fans, and harming the internal components through overheating, etc.).

What You Need:

• Ugreen NAS system
• USB drive (at least 8GB recommended)
• HDMI output cable
• Keyboard (and optionally, a mouse)
• USB docking station or splitter (recommended)

Preparation:

Ensure you have all the necessary tools and components before starting the installation.

1. Backup Data:

• Access Ugreen NAS settings:
  • Login to the Ugreen NAS management interface.

• Backup configuration and data:
  • Backup configuration to a local file or Ugreen cloud.
  • Use the Backup and Sync tool or the Net Tool to back up files to OneDrive, another remote NAS, or another Ugreen NAS system.
• Ensure all critical data is securely backed up to prevent data loss during the installation process.

2. Prepare the NAS:

• Decide on OS SSD usage:
• If you plan to use the existing SSD for other purposes, ensure it is properly backed up.

• If replacing, open the NAS and remove the SSD if you do not wish to use it for UnRAID storage.

• Refer to specific guides for your model (2-bay, 4-bay, etc.) to dismantle the NAS and access the SSD if needed. Ugreen models typically use a 2280 SSD, while smaller models may use a 2242 SSD.

3. Download Necessary Tools:

• Download UnRAID USB Creator:
  • Go to the UnRAID website and download the UnRAID USB Creator tool.

4. Create a Bootable USB:

• Insert the USB drive into your PC.

• Open UnRAID USB Creator:
  • Launch the UnRAID USB Creator tool.
  • Select the USB drive in the “Device” dropdown.
  • Click “SELECT” and choose the UnRAID version you wish to install.
  • Leave other settings at their default and click “WRITE” to create the bootable USB.
• Safely remove the USB drive after the process completes.

5. Setup the NAS for Installation:

• Insert the bootable USB into the Ugreen NAS.
• Connect the NAS to a monitor using an HDMI cable.
• Connect a keyboard (and mouse if available).
• Connect the NAS to a network via an Ethernet cable. <— IMPORTANT! Otherwise the software will not create a dynamic IP for your first time access (can change later)

6. Boot and Enter BIOS:

• Power on the NAS and repeatedly press the F12 and Delete keys to enter BIOS.

• Disable the Watchdog timer:

• Navigate to the “Advanced” tab.
• Locate the “Watchdog Timer” option and disable it to prevent the system from shutting down during installation.
• Note – if you are running the i5 UGREEN NAS systems, the Watchdog option might be in the ‘FAST’ tab – see below:

• Change the boot order:
  • Navigate to the “Boot” tab.
  • Set the USB drive as the first boot option.

OPTIONAL –  IF you want to keep the internal UGREEN NAS OS on the internal SSD, but do not want to risk ‘overwriting it’ or booting from it in error, you can DISABLE the SSD bay in the BIOS

7. Boot UnRAID:

• Save BIOS settings and reboot.

• The system should boot from the USB and start the UnRAID initialization process.

• Follow the on-screen instructions to set up UnRAID, including network configuration and storage setup.

8. Complete Installation:

• Reboot the system after the initial setup.
• Ensure the NAS is connected to the network for easier access.

9. Access and Configure UnRAID:

• Once rebooted, UnRAID should be accessible on the network.
• Use a web browser on a PC connected to the same network to find the NAS IP address.
  • Example: Open a browser and enter http://<NAS_IP_ADDRESS>.

• Complete the UnRAID setup:
  • Create storage pools.
  • Configure shares and other settings as needed.

Additional Resources:

• Detailed instructions and troubleshooting:
  • Refer to guides provided in the video description above
  • Check specific Ugreen NAS model guides for dismantling and SSD replacement.

By following these steps, you should be able to run UnRAID on your Ugreen NAS efficiently.

Alternative Way to Install a Third-Party OS on a Ugreen NAS

If you want the system to boot into BIOS without having to spam the Ctl+F12 keys, you can arrange this via the UGREEN UGOS NAS software GUI. Below outlines an alternative method to install a third-party OS (e.g., UnRAID or TrueNAS) on a Ugreen NAS using both the Ugreen NAS GUI and BIOS modifications. You will still need a Keyboard/Video output, however, later on:

Initial Setup Using Ugreen NAS GUI:

• Power on and connect the NAS:
  • Connect your NAS to a monitor via HDMI.
  • Connect a keyboard and mouse to the NAS.
  • Connect the NAS to your network via an Ethernet cable.
• Download the Ugreen app:
  • Install the Ugreen app on your mobile device (available on iOS and Android).
• Initialize the NAS:
  • Open the Ugreen app and follow the prompts to initialize your NAS.
  • Set an admin account and configure basic settings.
  • Skip setting up a Ugreen Cloud account if not needed.
• Enable SSH Access:
  • In the Ugreen NAS GUI, go to Control Panel.
  • Navigate to Terminal and enable SSH access.

Modifying UGOS and BIOS:

• Access the NAS via SSH:
  • On your PC, open Command Prompt.
  • Type ssh [username]@[NAS IP] and press Enter.
  • Type yes if prompted to continue connecting.
  • Enter the NAS user password when prompted.
• Identify the Boot Partition:
  • In the SSH session, type lsblk to list block devices.
  • Identify the nvme drive with the boot partition (usually labeled as nvme0n1p1).
• Gain Superuser Access:
  • Type sudo su and press Enter.
  • Enter your password when prompted.
• Mount the Boot Partition:
  • Type mkdir /mnt/nvme_efi and press Enter to create a mount directory.
  • Type mount /dev/nvme0n1p1 /mnt/nvme_efi and press Enter (replace nvme0n1p1 with your actual partition name).
• Rename EFI Directory:
  • Type cd /mnt/nvme_efi and press Enter.
  • Type ls to list the directory contents.
  • Type mv EFI EFI_RENAME and press Enter to rename the EFI directory.
  • Type ls again to confirm the directory has been renamed.
• Reboot to BIOS:
  • Type reboot and press Enter.
  • The NAS should reboot and enter the UEFI setup screen.
• Disable Watchdog Control in BIOS:
  • Navigate to the Advanced tab.
  • Select Watchdog Settings.
  • Disable Watchdog Control to prevent the system from rebooting every 3 minutes if UGOS is not detected.

Installing UnRAID:

• Prepare UnRAID Bootable USB:
  • For UnRAID: Create a bootable UnRAID USB drive using the UnRAID USB Creator tool on your PC.
  • UnRAID USB will load the NAS software into the system cache/memory.
• Insert Bootable USB:
  • Plug the UnRAID USB drive into the NAS.
• Save BIOS Changes and Reboot:
  • Save the BIOS changes and reboot the NAS.
  • The NAS should now boot from the USB drive and start the UnRAID initialization process.

By following these steps, you should be able to run UnRAID on your Ugreen NAS efficiently.

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EVERYTHING We Know About Synology NAS Hardware and Software for 2024-2025

Synology has always been the ‘Apple’ of the NAS industry, approaching the launch of their newest hardware/software releases with a sense of gravitas and importance (global launch events, hosted digital streams, etc) that is only matched by the sheer blanket of secrecy they maintain on their upcoming solutions. However, with many of their NAS systems refreshed every 2-3 years, many new NAS buyers (or those looking to upgrade) are always keen to know whether the current range of solutions that are available are the best option, or should they wait a little longer for the launch of a new and exciting follow-up? Likewise, the Synology DSM platform (arguably the jewel in the crown of Synology’s platform) sees regular updates and improvements to both the GUI itself and the range of features and services that are included in it’s wonderfully detailed ecosystem. Generally, when it comes to the software, Synology opt for minor updates almost monthly, noticeable platform/app upgrades every 4-6 months and significant widespread updates (eg DSM 7.0, 7.1, 7.2, 8.0?) every year or two. The hardware on the other hand is a different story. Around July/August every year, we see the year/naming convention shift towards the next annual period (i.e DS910+ > DS923+ > DS925+) and it is THOSE new hardware releases that most users take the most interest it. Rackmount and 6-8+ Bay SMB systems have been mostly absent in the 2023/2024 series of Diskstation and Rackstation (I’m looking at you RS1224+), so this is likely something we are going to see refreshes for in the 2nd half of 2024. So, I have made this page to allow me to aggregate all information that we (me and Eddie who run NASCompares), to keep in one place.

The following list of articles, links and information will be periodically updated as new information appears and you can add your email address at the bottom of the page if you want to get immediate alerts when these updates arrive (no need to make any account etc, it’s just a notification tool).

LAST UPDATED, Tuesday 27th August 2024

Synology Release the DSM 7.2.2 Update

The Synology DSM 7.2.2 update introduces several significant changes to the Synology ecosystem, primarily focused on enhancing security and optimizing the performance of NAS systems. This update includes numerous security patches to protect against vulnerabilities in the Linux and network landscape, ensuring that systems are robust against potential threats. Additionally, DSM 7.2.2 is a staged rollout, gradually being made available to different regions and systems, and currently, users must manually update their devices. Users can access the DSM 7.2.2 download page for more information and to initiate the update. This update not only aims to maintain system integrity but also marks a shift in Synology’s approach to multimedia support and application offerings.

Article HERE

Synology Make Video Station EOL in the latest Update, Reduce HEVC Support Too.

With the DSM 7.2.2 update, Synology has decided to retire Video Station, one of its key multimedia applications, and reduce support for certain video codecs, specifically HEVC (H.265) and VC1. This change reflects Synology’s strategy to move away from proprietary multimedia solutions, encouraging users to adopt third-party alternatives like Plex and Emby for their video streaming needs. The reduction in codec support aims to align with the capabilities of modern devices, which often natively support these codecs, thereby reducing the need for NAS-based transcoding. This decision has implications for users who rely on integrated multimedia capabilities, leading them to seek alternative solutions or face changes in how they manage and stream their media content.

Learn more about what this is all about, will it impact you, alternative provisions and the long term in the video below:

Synology Solution Exhibition LiveStream

Synology Enterprise Data Management Annual Conference. This was a live stream from Synology Taiwan, that outlined where the company is currently ‘at’ and where they plan on going.

From Synology (translated): It will bring four exciting theme agendas, please join us to discuss the four major applications – data storage and management , data and workload protection , teamproductivity , the latest application demand trends and optimal deployment of #intelligent image surveillance Strategy , you will understand how Synology can create more value for your enterprise from data management and improve operational efficiency. Below is the live stream:

These conference events will be taking place globally soon.

Synology in 2025 – Predictions, Leaks, Rumours and Releases Video

The video discusses predictions and rumours for Synology’s 2025 product lineup, focusing on anticipated hardware updates and potential shifts in the company’s strategy. Key models like the DS1825+, DS925+, and RS1625XS+/DS1625xs+ are expected to see minor upgrades, such as the addition of 2.5 GBE ports and USB Type-C, but without significant changes to their core hardware, particularly CPUs. There’s concern that these updates may not meet user expectations, especially in the absence of more powerful processing capabilities. Additionally, Synology might introduce new products like a five-bay DX525 expansion unit with USB Type-C and a larger capacity Bee Station model, potentially with RAID mirroring (though the leaked part number could easily just be the same 1-Bay with a larger base HDD). Software developments include the DSM 7.2.2 update, which could introduce the AI Admin Console (in beta) but might also lead to the depreciation of certain multimedia codecs (HEVC, ACC and VC1), pushing users towards third-party solutions like Plex. Synology’s AI integration, particularly through third-party APIs, raises privacy concerns, with a preference among users for in-house solutions.

The video also highlights the continued shift in Synology’s focus towards enterprise markets, which might impact the development and support of SMB and home user products. The Active Protect series, a license-based backup solution, is speculated to eventually replace the free Active Backup Suite down the road, reflecting a broader move towards subscription-based services. Despite growing demand and availability from competitors of all-flash desktop NAS solutions, Synology seems hesitant to invest in this area, potentially missing out on a key market opportunity. The hosts express cautious optimism about Synology’s future, noting that while the company may continue to strengthen its backup and AI-driven solutions, there’s a risk that traditional users might feel sidelined by the brand’s increasing focus on enterprise products and services.

Find out more in the video below:

A New Synology 8-Bay NAS Has Been Leaked Online

Synology has been incredibly enterprise-focused in recent months (the last 12 or so to be specific) and although we have seen a couple of home/enthusiast systems in the Beestation BSM and DS224+ DSM system, the bulk of their hardware/software reveals have been heavily skewed towards enterprise and hyperscale (eg GS series, the ActiveProtect platform, etc). However it FINALLY looks like we are going to start seeing something for the mid tier users, the small-medium businesses and possible even an advanced home user – as the Synology DS1825+ NAS appears to have been leaked online. Now, if we wanted to be cautious and ‘benefit of the doubt’ here with Synology, we could argue that this is just a page test and they plucked the DS1825+ model ID out of the air. However, the current DS1821+ is comparatively long in the took (right now, halfway through 2024) for a product series that tended to refresh every 2-2.5 years (see DS1813+, DS1815+, DS1817+, DS1819+, DS1821+). Plus, this is not the first time me and Eddie at NASCompares have observed the DS1825+ model appear online, with the model ID appearing on several product lists in the past, alongside DS1625+, DS925+ and oddly the DS1525+ – but Synology does tend to float ‘test’ model IDs out there sometimes, perhaps to reserve them internally (for every 1 model ID we discover that ends up being real, we find 2 that never cross the line and/or get renamed to a new year naming convention). That said, model IDs that are being entered into the Synology internal systems have a tendency to pop up all over the place. Find out more in the Video and article below:

Read About it HERE in the Article

Is Synology Focusing Too Much on Enterprise?

With Synology making more and more moves towards the enterprise sector, I decided to host a panel with 3 prominent voices in the Synology social ecosystem to discuss the question “Has Synology Become TOO Enterprise?”. Alongside myself (Robbie @ NASCompares) I invited Will (AKA Spacerex), Frank (AKA Wundertech Tutorials) and Luka (AKA Blackvoid and Synoforum) to discuss, among many things, the new Synology Product line up, the GS and AP platforms, their moves in Surveillance and AI, and also whether Synology can cut it in the enterprise sector right now? It’s a long discussion, but I think you will enjoy it, as I thin kit gives a tremendous range of perspectives and logic to the Synology Enterprise moves in 2024:

The Synology GS Series Unveiled

Synology is no stranger to large-scale storage. Last year, we saw the long-developed rollout of the High Density series (premiering a 60 Bay 4U Rackmount solution) and further refreshes in the Synology RS and SA series. However, it would appear that Synology has even loftier goals, with the launch of the Synology GS series – designed to massively scale up towards XX nodes (demonstrated as GS6400 rackmount devices) that, when clustered together, can scale up to an insane 20 Petabyte groups.

We are still awaiting details on the storage capacity scaling (i.e., will they arrive in pre-designated storage configurations), but they will no doubt roll out supporting the Synology HAT5310/HAS5310 Enterprise drives up to 20TB. The GS series appears to be in a slightly modified chassis (numeric LED panel and vent fascia) but seemingly will be using similar hardware/architecture to existing EPYC-powered systems already in the Synology RS/SA portfolio. Additionally, as the scale of the GS Clusters is so large, Synology are rolling out a dedicated GS Cluster switch to coordinate the whole thing. Pricing and capacity details are still TBC!

The Synology DP Series and ActiveProtect

Synology really made some noise on this one, and frankly, I can see why. The Data Protection series is a new tier of their portfolio that exclusively focuses on backup management, fast deployment, and simplicity. Arriving in rackmount hardware form (at least at launch), these systems will NOT arrive with DSM (the operating system of the majority of Synology NAS systems) but instead a dedicated backup appliance called ActiveProtect.

It appears to consolidate the features and functions of several parts of the Synology ecosystem (in particular Active Backup) in order to create a 10-minute setup backup solution for businesses who need robust and easily configurable backup management for:

• Local PC/Mac/Linux client machines
• Synology and 3rd Party Linux Server backups
• Cloud-Based Software as a Service (SaaS) data, such as Google Workspace and Microsoft 365
• Hyper-V/VMware virtual machines

The architecture of the ActiveProtect system also features a number of impressive restoration services built in, ranging from deploying backups of your cloud source VMs to a local VM deployed on the NAS and WORM-protected backups, to simple file/folder restoration and deduplication.

That last one is extra important, as not only does a single DP system with ActiveProtect deduplicate backed-up data in its immediate network circle, but when you deploy multiple DP systems across multiple sites in your business’ physical geography (i.e., sites globally) and have a dedicated target backup for them all, it will further deduplicate the data being sent from all those other DP systems too. You can find out more about the Synology DP series and ActiveProtect in the article below:

[Click Link to ActiveProtect Article]

Synology Unveils Its AI Integration with AI Console

This is something I think most of us saw coming! The integration of AI assistant services and AI language models into the majority of platforms we use on a daily basis has been pretty much non-stop these last 12-18 months, and it comes as no surprise that Synology is now moving into this. But to their credit, they have not rushed into this. In fact, although we saw very tentative steps and early demonstrations of where they would like it to go at their Taipei event in 2023 (see video HERE), they have not rushed into this. The Synology AI Console is their integration of AI assistant tools into a number of their collaboration tools, namely Synology Mail Plus, Office, and Chat.

These tools are designed to provide services that are tailored to these applications – not just a glossy portal/GUI with ChatGPT and other LLMs behind it. Such as the ability to provide a summary of larger email chains, provide context and proofreading of documents, craft responses to communication that are tonally appropriate, and more. Additionally, they state that the AI services will be completely optional, off by default, individually enabled, and have a framework in place that prevents sensitive information from being used in AI-generated content. The extent to how this is controlled and adapted by the system owner is yet to be fully confirmed, as is the level of control that is provided to the Synology NAS owner with regard to the AI’s reference points internally.

Video from a Synology event in 2023:

They do highlight that support of existing popular AI models that include ChatGPT, Microsoft Azure AI, and Google Gemini will be available when the service is launched (in beta, I assume), but I will be interested to see how far the brand will be willing to take AI integration (especially if they are going to allow flexibility in the AI models a user can connect with) as the ability to use AI tools with storage filing services, more creative search categorization, and analysis of system logs. We will have to wait and see… DSM 8?

Synology C2 Surveillance Station and Cloud Cameras

Although Synology has quite a few different apps and services in DSM, one of the most polished and universally praised examples is Surveillance Station. All Synology NAS systems that run DSM also include the Surveillance Station applications and the ability to add multiple cameras. However, 2 years ago, when Synology rolled out C2 Surveillance (a cloud failover and dual recording platform to be used in conjunction with SS), it was only a question of time before they went the extra step and created a ‘direct to cloud’ version of their Surveillance Station platform – C2 Surveillance Station.

This is a cloud-based UI of Surveillance Station that allows users to deploy Synology C2 cameras that record directly to the C2 Cloud. Now, there is an argument that this is something that other camera brands have always offered (i.e., a camera and a cloud subscription for recordings), and many choose Synology for their surveillance/CCTV as they have an in-house surveillance system in a DSM NAS.

However, that does not apply to everyone, and there are several different deployments that could see the benefits of a Synology surveillance system, but without deploying a Synology network storage appliance, such as:

• Building sites, where the network and PoE structure of surveillance cameras are not present
• Locations with a largely exclusive wireless network
• Mobile setups that require camera security, but have a regularly changing physical location
• Users who want the user-friendly surveillance UI of Surveillance Station, but are not interested in purchasing more than the physical cameras

Needless to say, after this initial reveal, there is still the question of pricing, i.e., will the cameras require a monthly storage subscription? Do the cameras support use for local Synology NAS Surveillance deployment as an option? We will have to wait and see closer to the physical launch.

New Fisheye Camera and 8MP Bullet Camera

New Synology Flash NVMe and HDD Hybrid Rackmount (Still Early Development)

Where is the Synology RS1224+ Rackstation?

Synology is arguably one of the most popular brands in the entire private server market, and once you then factor in the large number of small and medium-sized businesses migrating away from cloud services and onto their own private NAS, who have been flocking in their droves towards Synology, you can understand why they are something of a big deal. Almost 25 years, the brand has been producing numerous desktop and rackmount NAS solutions (alongside a bunch of other side hustles like routers, storage media, business surveillance tools, and more), but in particular, their growth in the rackmount market in the last 5 to 7 years has been genuinely impressive. Which brings us to the subject of today’s article, where the hell is the Synology RS1224+ RackStation NAS? There has been an undeniable shift in the home lab and small business community away from desktop NAS devices and towards small-scale rackmount solutions, and Synology’s recent releases have certainly capitalized on this, thanks to improved smaller-scale four and eight-bay rackmount servers appearing in their product portfolio.

This combined with changes in the baseline hardware of several of their more recent releases have led to many users looking for a very specific kind of Synology rackmount! It has to be compact, it has to be powerful, it has to be scalable, and it has to be reasonably priced – currently, Synology only provides one solution that fits the bill in every regard, the 2020/2021 released RS1221+, which, despite its merits, is still a system that is almost 3 years old, leading many to question the benefits of investing in a system that is perhaps not as cutting edge as the rest of Synology’s portfolio currently stands. The answer, of course? A refresh (something Synology tends to do with their portfolio every two to three years), which would be the Synology RS1224+. Today we want to discuss everything we know, confirm this unit is coming, the expectations we have, and whether it’s worth waiting for it.

Read About it HERE in the Article

Or Watch the YouTube Video HERE

You can find out more about Synology and their plans for their 2024 series by visiting our friends over on Blackvoid HERE

Looking for Information on Synology NAS Hardware and Software Releases and Rumours for 2023? You can visit our Synology 2023 News Page HERE

We pool the comments on this article and the videos that are featured in it to keep all the relevant comments in one place, so take a look and see if your POV is the same as everyone else’s.

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If you like this service, please consider supporting us.
We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you. Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which is used to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H. You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks! To find out more about how to support this advice service check HERE   If you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver   Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

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ZimaCube Pro NAS Review (i5-1235U Version) – A Crowdfunding Success Story?

The ZimaCube Pro, developed by Ice Whale Technology, is a high-performance NAS system that emerged from a successful Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign. Positioned as a solution for advanced users, the ZimaCube Pro is designed to meet the needs of those requiring significant storage and processing power for a variety of demanding applications. The device is marketed towards users who require a reliable, high-performance system for tasks such as media management, content creation, and large-scale data processing. This review delves into its design, hardware specifications, connectivity options, performance metrics, and overall usability, providing a comprehensive evaluation of its strengths and limitations.

You can check Amazon for the ZimaCube Pro NAS – HERE

ZimaCube Review – Quick Conclusion / TLDR

The ZimaCube Pro stands out for its solid construction, comprehensive storage options, and advanced connectivity features, including dual Thunderbolt 4 ports and multiple Ethernet interfaces. These features make it a versatile tool for users who need high-speed data transfer and reliable connectivity.

However, the device also exhibits certain drawbacks, such as elevated noise levels, inconsistent write performance, and some software-related limitations. Although the ZimaCube Pro shows considerable promise, it requires further optimization to fully meet the high expectations set by its crowdfunding campaign and to deliver a more polished user experience.

ZimaCube Review – Design

The ZimaCube Pro is designed with a blend of functionality and aesthetics, focusing on both durability and efficient heat management. The device features a fully aluminum CNC chassis, which not only provides a robust structure but also aids in heat dissipation. The front panel is equipped with a plastic grille, contributing to the device’s ventilation, while the rest of the body is composed of aluminum, reinforcing its sturdy build.

The design includes a clear emphasis on space efficiency within its compact form factor. The internal layout is optimized to maximize space, allowing for extensive storage and connectivity options while maintaining effective heat dissipation. That said, there certainly was a % of users who were disappointed in the need for an external PSU (for further space-saving reasons).

It is a decent enough external PSU, but many who look at bigger solutions like the Zimacube will be less keen on ‘easy to accidentally disconnect’. The PSU aside, I have to give them enormous credit for getting SO MUCH hardware into such a compact, yet attractive frame. Despite these strengths, the design has some areas for improvement. For example, the process of removing the front panel for internal access can be cumbersome, which may be inconvenient for users who frequently need to access the internal components.

Design Features

The cooling of the system can be broken down into 2 areas. Active and Passive. Passive ventilation comprised vent holes..EVERYWHERE. For such a small case, it has ventilation on almost all sides. Really happy with this and this combined with 2 of the main vent panels being removable is a nice touch.

The inside of the system has 2 cooling systems in place. There is the expected CPU fan, and there are two rear mounted fans that are located under the rear vent panel.

Unfortunately, the system still needs optimization with regard to the reaction of these cooling systems and under even light-medium activity, these cooling systems really do ramp up in noise. Zimacube has stated that this has been acknowledged and an improved cooling system is being rolled out and supplied very soon.

But what about the default cooling fans noise?

The result of the existing fans however is that even when the system is performing very light operations, or even in ile, the system has a higher avg noise level than most other systems of the same scale. Below is the noise level of the system in low use for about 30 mins and THEN on idle afterwards:

The drive trays are much improved over those I saw in the ZimaCube N100 version (the prototype sent through at the start of 2024). They are ‘click and load’, so no tools required, slide in neatly to the bays, and hold the drives very firmly and are generally well put together. Also, I tested HDDs all the way up to 24TB (Seagate Ironwolf Pro 24TBs) and did not encounter any compatibility problems.

The Zimacube also includes quite an impressive accessory kit. Not unusual, but they have definitely taken some extra time (and budget?) towards a well put together retail kit:

Also, with regard to design. Very small differences between the N100 version prototype that we received back in Jan 2024 and the Pro model now are visible.

The colour effect of the metal external casing, the build of the m.2 7th bay (more on that later), the trays (mentioned earlier) and the ports of course, all make a difference.

Let’s discuss ‘under the bonnet’ a bit and dig into what the ZimaCube Pro brings to the party.

ZimaCube Review – Storage and PCIe Lanes

The ZimaCube Pro provides substantial storage capacity, equipped with six SATA storage bays and four M.2 NVMe slots. These features are well-suited to users who require extensive storage for large datasets or media libraries.

The device employs an ASMedia ASM2824 PCIe switch to manage the M.2 slots, offering Gen 3 x8 lanes. This setup is intended to ensure high-speed data transfers and efficient use of the available PCIe lanes, particularly for users who rely on NVMe drives for high-performance storage needs.

Additionally, the device includes the ASM1116 controller to handle SATA interfaces, providing a Gen 3 x2 connection that supports up to 2,000 MB/s. This ensures that both SATA and NVMe drives can operate at their maximum potential without bottlenecks, making the ZimaCube Pro a versatile storage solution for different types of drives and configurations.

Storage and PCIe Specifications

The system also includes an OS SSD in an m.2 slot directly on the MoBo (not on the 7th bay slots) that is a Kingston Gen 4×4 256GB drive – when they could have EASILY just included a basic Gen3 ‘no name’ drive for ZimaOS – I really appreciate the extra effort and expense here

This combination of storage and PCIe capabilities makes the ZimaCube Pro a flexible and powerful platform for users who need to manage large amounts of data with both speed and reliability. However, the efficiency of this setup may be influenced by the overall system architecture, which can impact real-world performance. The storage bays are connected to the main motherboard via specialized DP cables. They have bolstered this to 2x connectors, as opposed to the 1x cable we saw on the N100 prototype.

It’s an inventive and rather unique solution (when a lot of brands feed a sister board directly into an angled smaller PCIe slot) and certainly assists in allowing for the greatly bandwidth needed for the M.2s in bay #7. But its still ALOT of bandwidth being fed into the system in an unconventional way.  That said, it DOES allow for creative distribution of PCIe lanes and physical PCIe slot. One interesting byproduct is that, despite this being an M-ITX board, the ZimaCube Pro features TWO PCIe slots – VERY unusual!

Whether you are looking at chunky height GFX/GPU cards or just having 2 cards that cover storage AND network improvements, its really impressive that they created this board ‘in house’ that is THIS expandable! They even managed to do this, whilst including default 10GbE connectivity, using an IOCREST 10GbE to M.2 adapter – thereby avoiding forfeiting a PCIe slot.

Overall, Icewhale has done a PHENOMENAL job cramming in THIS much hardware onto an M-ITX board, whilst also creating a great casing around it. The fan noise is kinda crazy (at least until we know if the improved cooling kit they are sending will help) and I have concerns about bandwidth throttling, but you really cannot fault the ingenuity here! Let’s discuss ports and connections.

ZimaCube Review – Ports and Connections

Connectivity is a notable strength of the ZimaCube Pro, which is equipped with a variety of ports designed to support a wide range of applications. The device includes dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, providing high-speed data transfer capabilities, particularly useful for content creators and professionals who need to move large files quickly and efficiently.

Additionally, the device features multiple Ethernet interfaces, including two 2.5GbE ports and one 10GbE port, offering flexible networking options for different environments and network demands.

The inclusion of four USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A ports and two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type C ports further enhances the device’s versatility, allowing for the connection of a wide array of peripherals, from external drives to media equipment. The HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4 outputs add to the device’s multimedia capabilities, making it suitable for tasks that involve video output or display connections.

One EXCELLENT piece of news is that, alongside the 2.5G and 10G network connectivity, the system also supports Thunderbolt over IP / IP over Thunderbolt, at 20Gb/s. This means that DIRECT connectivity over a Thunderbolt 4 cable is possible – with Zimacube Pro even including a TB4 cable (something that is weirdly rare, even from QNAP and their own TB4 NAS solutions)

Hell, the system even features WiFi connectivity and Bluetooth, via an internal USB Dongle. That does mean that larger scale antennae are not present, but as a direct 2nd/3rd tier access method and for easy first time setup on a mobile, this really helps.

Ports and Connectivity

Overall, the ZimaCube Pro’s connectivity options are comprehensive, supporting a wide range of use cases and ensuring compatibility with various external devices and networks. The diverse port selection enhances the device’s flexibility, making it suitable for a broad spectrum of professional applications.

ZimaCube Review – Processing Hardware

The ZimaCube Pro is equipped with robust internal hardware, including an Intel i5-1235U processor and 16GB of DDR5 memory, which is expandable up to 64GB. This combination of processing power and memory is designed to handle demanding tasks, such as video editing, large-scale data processing, and other intensive applications. However, keep in mind that this is NOT ECC memory (CPU-related reasons).

As previously mentioned, the architecture of the device includes a detailed lane distribution strategy, managed by the ASMedia ASM2824 PCIe switch, which optimizes data flow across the device’s components. However, keep in mind that the ASM2824 is a Gen3 packet switch, and running on Gen 3×4 – so a maximum 4,000MB/s maximum bandwidth – that also means potential reductions on the drives bandwidth going through it across multiple drives.

The device also includes an ASMedia ASM1116 controller to manage the SATA interfaces, ensuring efficient data transfer between storage devices and the motherboard. That is running on a Gen 3×2 lane , so 2,000MB/s theoretical maximum. As long as the SSDs in Bay 7 are separate (as the dual DP cable new architecture indicates), this should be more than enough for the SATA media bays and will not present a problem to the M.2s as a bottleneck down the road (as observed previously online in the N100 prototype)

Internal Hardware

The hardware configuration of the ZimaCube Pro is well-suited to users who need a powerful and flexible NAS system. However, some performance inconsistencies, particularly in write speeds, indicate that further optimization may be required to fully realize the potential of the device’s hardware.

For the particularly nerdy, here is the full list of PCI devices inside the ZimaCube Pro NAS:

ZimaCube Review – Noise and Power Consumption

The ZimaCube Pro employs dual fans and a comprehensive ventilation system to manage heat effectively, particularly during intensive tasks. While the thermal management is generally efficient, the device’s aggressive cooling profile leads to higher noise levels, especially when the system is under load. This may be a concern for users who require a quieter operating environment.

Watch the video below (it’s been skipped ahead to the ‘noise test’ part):

In terms of power consumption, the ZimaCube Pro reflects its robust hardware. During idle periods, the device consumes approximately 51W, which increases to around 75W under heavy load. This level of power usage is expected given the high-performance components and the device’s focus on delivering reliable, sustained performance.

Noise and Power Consumption

While the noise levels and power consumption are in line with the device’s performance capabilities, they may be a consideration for users who prioritize energy efficiency or require a quieter workspace. The cooling system, while effective, could benefit from more refined noise mitigation strategies.

ZimaCube Review – Performance

The ZimaCube Pro offers substantial computing power, making it suitable for tasks such as video editing, large data transfers, and other resource-intensive applications. Initial performance tests indicate strong read speeds, particularly when using Thunderbolt connections, with speeds reaching up to 1.6GB/s.

However, the device’s write performance is less consistent, with speeds ranging from 300MB/s to 600MB/s, depending on the workload and storage configuration.

The device’s ability to handle multitasking efficiently is a key strength, allowing it to support environments where multiple users need simultaneous access to large datasets. Nevertheless, the performance was very inconsistent and sometimes I would get full 10GbE network saturation easily, whilst other times (using the same file/block/network packet sizes) I would see numbers at half! These results were from tests of the RAID 5 HDD array and were the best average results, representing 30 mins of varying tests. Then I switched over to see what level of saturation as possible using the 4x m.2 NVMe SSD bays in a RAID. First up, ATTO:

ATTO Disk benchmark gave pretty much the best results over 10GbE, but of course do not represent real world use. Below are performance numbers for 6x SATA HDDs in a RAID 5:

Finally, dipping into SSH and terminal, I was able to run direct performance tests on the SSDs internally, removing any network limitations entirely.

This performance was significantly reduced as soon as I tried to copy data from 1 SSD to the other internally.

After all of these, I then went ahead and conducted numerous Window transfer tests on both the HDD RAIID array and SD array, however, the variability in write performance suggests that the device may benefit from further firmware updates and optimization to ensure consistent performance across different tasks.

Performance Metrics

The performance metrics indicate that the ZimaCube Pro is well-equipped for read-heavy tasks, but users with write-intensive workloads may need to consider the device’s potential limitations in this area.

ZimaCube Review – Multimedia in Plex Media Server

The ZimaCube Pro also functions as a competent Plex Media Server, particularly benefiting from its robust hardware. In tests using the Plex app pre-installed on the device, the ZimaCube Pro demonstrated strong capabilities in handling high-definition media files, including 1080p, 4K, and even some 8K content. However, the system’s performance varied depending on the file format and resolution. For 1080p and 4K files, the ZimaCube Pro performed admirably, with smooth playback and minimal buffering. The device utilized its Intel i5-1235U processor effectively, maintaining relatively low CPU utilization during direct play. However, when transcoding was required, particularly with high-bitrate 4K and 8K files, CPU utilization spiked significantly, and the system fans became noticeably loud. The ZimaCube Pro’s ability to transcode 8K content was limited, often resulting in buffering and high CPU usage. This performance indicates that while the device is powerful, it may not be fully optimized for the most demanding media tasks without further software updates and enhancements. Nonetheless, for typical home media server usage, the ZimaCube Pro provides a satisfactory experience, particularly for users who do not rely heavily on transcoding.

ZimaCube Review – Conclusion

The ZimaCube Pro is a well-rounded NAS solution that combines robust hardware with extensive connectivity options, making it a viable choice for users with demanding storage and processing needs. The device’s solid construction and comprehensive storage capabilities make it a reliable option for professionals involved in content creation, data management, and media processing. The dual Thunderbolt 4 ports and multiple Ethernet interfaces enhance its versatility, allowing it to adapt to various use cases and environments. However, the ZimaCube Pro also presents some challenges that potential users should consider. The device’s high noise levels, particularly under load, could be a concern for those who prioritize a quiet operating environment. The aggressive cooling profile, while effective in managing heat, contributes to this noise issue and may detract from the overall user experience. Additionally, the device’s write performance is less consistent than its read performance, which could impact users who require reliable and fast data transfer for write-intensive tasks.

The software functionality, while adequate, may require further refinement to fully leverage the device’s hardware potential. Firmware updates and enhancements could address these limitations, improving the device’s performance and user experience over time. In summary, the ZimaCube Pro shows significant potential as a high-performance NAS solution, particularly for specific user groups like content creators and data professionals. However, users should weigh the pros and cons carefully, considering their specific needs and environments, before investing in this NAS solution. While the device offers a solid foundation, further optimization and refinement could enhance its appeal, making it a more competitive choice in the NAS market.

You can check Amazon for the ZimaCube Pro NAS – HERE

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A Step-by-Step Guide to Install TrueNAS on a Ugreen NAS

Installing TrueNAS on a Ugreen NAS can significantly enhance your network storage capabilities by providing a robust, open-source operating system designed for managing and sharing data. This guide will walk you through the detailed process of setting up TrueNAS on your Ugreen NAS, from initial preparation and data backup to BIOS configuration and final installation. Whether you are replacing the existing SSD or disabling it to install TrueNAS, these steps ensure a smooth and efficient setup. Additionally, we provide an alternative method for installing other third-party operating systems, such as UnRAID, using the Ugreen NAS GUI and BIOS modifications.

Important – The UGREEN NAS Software is still in it’s first year of active development, and this follows several months of Kickstarter crowdfunding. Therefore the software is still in it’s early stages of development. It IS a decent enough NAS operating system, that the manufacturer assures users will see more and more AAA+ features added to it in a planned roadmap. So, I would recommend taking some time with the UGOS NAS software before making a switch to a 3rd Party OS. Additionally, it is worth noting that UGREEN have also made it clear that choosing to use a 3rd Party NAS OS will not invalidate your hardware warranty, as long as the software does not negatively impact the hardware (eg overclocking the CPU to fry it, disabling fans and that harms the internal components through overheating, etc).

What You Need:

• Ugreen NAS system
• USB drive (at least 8GB recommended)
• HDMI output cable
• Keyboard (and optionally, a mouse)
• USB docking station or splitter (recommended)
• New SSD (if replacing the existing one)

Preparation:

Ensure you have all the necessary tools and components before starting the installation.

1. Backup Data:

• Access Ugreen NAS settings:
  • Login to the Ugreen NAS management interface.

• Backup configuration and data:
  • Backup configuration to a local file or Ugreen cloud.
  • Use the Backup and Sync tool or the Net Tool to back up files to OneDrive, another remote NAS, or another Ugreen NAS system.

• Ensure all critical data is securely backed up to prevent data loss during the installation process.

2. Prepare the NAS:

• Decide on OS SSD usage:
  • If you plan to use the existing SSD, note that it will be wiped during the installation.
  • If replacing, open the NAS and remove the SSD.

• Refer to specific guides for your model (2-bay, 4-bay, etc.) to dismantle the NAS and access the SSD. Ugreen models typically use a 2280 SSD, while smaller models may use a 2242 SSD.
• Alternatively, (LATER ON) disable the internal SSD in BIOS to prevent overwriting.

3. Download Necessary Tools:

• Download TrueNAS ISO:
  • Go to the TrueNAS website and download the TrueNAS Core ISO.
  • Alternatively, you can download TrueNAS Scale from the TrueNAS Scale download page.

• Download Rufus:
  • Visit the Rufus website and download the latest version of Rufus.

4. Create a Bootable USB:

• Insert the USB drive into your PC.

• Open Rufus:
  • Launch Rufus.
  • Select the USB drive in the “Device” dropdown.
  • Click “SELECT” and choose the TrueNAS ISO you downloaded.
  • Leave other settings at their default and click “START” to create the bootable USB.
• Safely remove the USB drive after the process completes.

5. Setup the NAS for Installation:

• Insert the bootable USB into the Ugreen NAS.
• Connect the NAS to a monitor using an HDMI cable.
• Connect a keyboard (and mouse if available).
• Connect the NAS to a network via an Ethernet cable.

6. Boot and Enter BIOS:

• Power on the NAS and repeatedly press the F12 and Delete keys to enter BIOS.

• Disable the Watchdog timer:
  • Navigate to the “Advanced” tab.
  • Locate the “Watchdog Timer” option and disable it to prevent the system from shutting down during installation.

• Note – if you are running the i5 UGREEN NAS systems, the Watchdog option might be in the ‘FAST’ tab – see below:

• Change the boot order:
  • Navigate to the “Boot” tab.
  • Set the USB drive as the first boot option.

• Disable the internal SSD drive:
  • Navigate to the “Boot” tab or “Advanced” tab (depending on your BIOS version).
  • Find the internal SSD listed in the drives and disable it to ensure it isn’t used during the installation.
  • IF you want to keep the internal UGREEN NAS OS on the internal SSD, but do not want to risk ‘overwriting it’ or booting from it in error, you can DISABLE the SSD bay in the BIOS

7. Install TrueNAS:

• Save BIOS settings and reboot.
• The system should boot from the USB and start the TrueNAS installation process.

• Follow the on-screen instructions to install TrueNAS on the SSD or chosen storage.
• Set up TrueNAS with a name, root/admin access, and other configuration details.

8. Complete Installation:

• Reboot the system after installation.
• Ensure the NAS is connected to the network for easier access.

9. Access and Configure TrueNAS:

• Once rebooted, TrueNAS should be accessible on the network.
• Use a web browser on a PC connected to the same network to find the NAS IP address.
  • Example: Open a browser and enter http://<NAS_IP_ADDRESS>.
• Complete the TrueNAS setup:
  • Create storage pools.
  • Configure shares and other settings as needed.

Additional Resources:

• Detailed instructions and troubleshooting:
  • Refer to guides provided in the video description.
  • Check specific Ugreen NAS model guides for dismantling and SSD replacement.
• Further setup and advanced configurations:
  • Visit Tom @ Lawrence’s YouTube channel for comprehensive TrueNAS tutorials.

By following these steps, you should be able to install and set up TrueNAS on your Ugreen NAS efficiently.

Alternative Way to Install a Third-Party OS on a Ugreen NAS

If you want the system to boot into BIOS without having to spam the Ctl+F12 keys, you can arrange this via the UGREEN UGOS NAS software GUI. Below outlines an alternative method to install a third-party OS (e.g., UnRAID or TrueNAS) on a Ugreen NAS using both the Ugreen NAS GUI and BIOS modifications. You will still need a Keyboard/Video output, however, later on:

Initial Setup Using Ugreen NAS GUI:

• Power on and connect the NAS:
  • Connect your NAS to a monitor via HDMI.
  • Connect a keyboard and mouse to the NAS.
  • Connect the NAS to your network via an Ethernet cable.
• Download the Ugreen app:
  • Install the Ugreen app on your mobile device (available on iOS and Android).
• Initialize the NAS:
  • Open the Ugreen app and follow the prompts to initialize your NAS.
  • Set an admin account and configure basic settings.
  • Skip setting up a Ugreen Cloud account if not needed.
• Enable SSH Access:
  • In the Ugreen NAS GUI, go to Control Panel.
  • Navigate to Terminal and enable SSH access.

Modifying UGOS and BIOS:

• Access the NAS via SSH:
  • On your PC, open Command Prompt.
  • Type ssh [username]@[NAS IP] and press Enter.
  • Type yes if prompted to continue connecting.
  • Enter the NAS user password when prompted.
• Identify the Boot Partition:
  • In the SSH session, type lsblk to list block devices.
  • Identify the nvme drive with the boot partition (usually labeled as nvme0n1p1).
• Gain Superuser Access:
  • Type sudo su and press Enter.
  • Enter your password when prompted.
• Mount the Boot Partition:
  • Type mkdir /mnt/nvme_efi and press Enter to create a mount directory.
  • Type mount /dev/nvme0n1p1 /mnt/nvme_efi and press Enter (replace nvme0n1p1 with your actual partition name).
• Rename EFI Directory:
  • Type cd /mnt/nvme_efi and press Enter.
  • Type ls to list the directory contents.
  • Type mv EFI EFI_RENAME and press Enter to rename the EFI directory.
  • Type ls again to confirm the directory has been renamed.
• Reboot to BIOS:
  • Type reboot and press Enter.
  • The NAS should reboot and enter the UEFI setup screen.
• Disable Watchdog Control in BIOS:
  • Navigate to the Advanced tab.
  • Select Watchdog Settings.
  • Disable Watchdog Control to prevent the system from rebooting every 3 minutes if UGOS is not detected.

Installing UnRAID or TrueNAS:

• Prepare UnRAID or TrueNAS Bootable USB:
  • For UnRAID: Create a bootable UnRAID USB drive using the UnRAID USB Creator tool on your PC.
  • UnRAID USB will load the NAS software into the system cache/memory.
  • For TrueNAS: Download the TrueNAS Core or Scale ISO from the TrueNAS website.
  • Use Rufus to create a bootable USB from the TrueNAS ISO.
  • TrueNAS installation USB will load into the installer, which installs the TrueNAS Core/Scale OS onto an internal SSD.
• Insert Bootable USB:
  • Plug the UnRAID or TrueNAS USB drive into the NAS.
• Save BIOS Changes and Reboot:
  • Save the BIOS changes and reboot the NAS.
  • The NAS should now boot from the USB drive and start the respective OS installation process.

By following these steps, you should be able to install a third-party OS on your Ugreen NAS.

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

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If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

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How Noisy Are Seagate, WD and Synology Hard Drives?

If you have ever been in close proximity to any modern large-capacity hard drive, you will be well aware that despite their attractive high capacity, that they generate a fair amount of ambient noise. Hard drives have changed substantially over the last decade or more and in order for them to facilitate the high speeds and consistent high performance that end-users demand, a great deal of work has gone into the internal mechanics of the modern hard drive. Whenever I recommend a NAS solution to Prosumer and Business users, I always make a point to highlight that the more industrial the data storage setup, the more noise the drives will make. It isn’t just the capacity either, with some brands having dedicated in-house hardware techniques on their product lines resulting in the same capacity on different HDD brands sounding noticeably different. Over the last year, I have conducted numerous sound tests on the most popular hard drives used in NAS and below I have detailed all of them. So if you are on the verge of buying a network-attached storage device and are slightly worried about how much noise these systems will generate because of those mechanical hard drives, this is definitely the article for you.

Hard Drive Noise – Why Should You Care?

It is a valid question, as most hardware in the world seemingly makes some kind of noise, from the light electric hum of a light bulb to the internal combustion of a car. Why is noise on a hard drive any more/less important? Here are the most common concerns of a noisy hard drive:

My Hard Drive Sounds Broken, But Is It?

This is the most common reason for many to query the noise of a hard drive. Particularly in a larger capacity and therefore more expensive drives, when installed, many users hear unusually high-pitched whurs of the disc or remarkably abrupt clicks. In fact, a lot of the most recent 16TB and 18TB hard drives on the market sound not unlike a broken hard drive sometimes, as the industrial internal hardware flicks between actions internally on the fly. Many users worry that the new expensive hard drive or larger RAID array is broken on day one because of noises like these. Here is an example of a Healthy 3.5″ Seagate Hard Drive at 8TB:

and HERE is an UNHEALTHY WD 3.5″ Hard Drive:

As you can tell, if you know what to listen for, they suddenly become very distinct.

Video & Photo Editors Care About Hard Drive Noise

If you are editing photos and video on a NAS over the likes of thunderbolt or sometimes in a direct 10Gbe environment, then you will be all too familiar with the irritation of noisy hard drives. This extends to more than just NAS drives and RAID, as it also applies to those of you that use particularly large external DAS hard drives from the likes of LaCie (who uses Seagate HDDs) and GTech (who use WD and UltraStar). If you want to edit photo or video in this way, then you are going to be in close proximity to the data storage enclosure. Unless you are using pretty good noise-cancelling headphones to edit your work, the spins, hums, whurs and clunk noises will be a constant irritation that only amplifies as your storage enclosure grows too. 

A Noisy NAS and/or Hard Drives Ruining Your Media Enjoyment

Finally, there is the effect of noisy HDD populated storage enclosures like NAS or DAS whilst watching your own personal multimedia at home. Most help users have a NAS directly connected to the router at home (being far too small a network hardware environment to justify a network switch purchase). However, those same people when having the internet service provider hardware installed in their home likely have the router in the same room as their sofas and a big TV (as it will be connected to their TiVo box, media streamer, Smart TV, etc). Those same users who want to access media from their NAS and watch it on the big screen will suddenly be disturbed during the heavier plot moments of their favourite show by what sounds like a hard drive having a fit in the corner of the room. This can be especially galling as most users who buy a NAS for home media will want to ‘futureproof’ their storage capacity up and then buy even larger hard drives to make sure the system lasts as long as possible as their collection grows, therefore the noise generated will be suitably increased as well.

So, as you can see there are plenty of reasons why the noise generated from as little as a single hard drive to an entire RAID enabled configuration is worth getting worried about. So let’s talk about each of the brands, their hard drives and how much noise each one makes. Each Drive mentioned below includes a video demonstrating which includes the noise of each HDD spinning up, performing a consistent right action and performing a consistent read action. I have also included a decibel metre and include typical megabytes per second performance for each action. Tests were performed using an external Sabrent USB 3.2 Gen 1 silent dock, with a microphone at no less than 30cm. For sensitivity reasons and in order to better distinguish the drive noise from any potential ambient noise, the db(A) Meter includes a -10 dbA difference. Let’s take a look/listen at how each drive sounds and performs below:

WD Red NAS Hard Drives – Quiet but SMR & Low Capacity

1-6TB, 5400RPM, 64-128MB Cache, 180TBW, 3yr Warranty $50-180 

Almost certainly the drive that most people have used over the last few years in their NAS, the WD Red hard drive series is one of the quietest drives on the market for NAS. Aside from the concerns of SMR and CMR disparities on this more affordable series, this is advised for quieter but consistent/steady home use. However, if you are looking for a dedicated PMR/CMR drive in a larger capacity, you may wish to skip this.

+ Affordable Price Tag

+ Low Noise and Power Consumption in 24×7 Use

+ Good base level of Capacities Available

– Shingled Magnetic Recording (SMR)

– Performance is fairly average in the smaller capacities

Seagate Ironwolf NAS Hard Drives – Little Noise, Good Capacity, Data Recovery

1-18TB, 5900-7200RPM, 64-256MB Cache, 180TBW, 3yr Warranty, Rescue Data Recovery Services Included $50-436 

The quietest hard drive for NAS in the Seagate portfolio, only fractionally noisier than WD Red (though 10-14TB are noticeably louder), these arrive in larger capacities and are all CMR/PMR. They are also the best price per terabyte of any drive in this list.

+ Excellent Price Point

+ Rescue Data Recovery Services

+ Seagate Ironwolf Health Management

+ ONLY CMR/PMR Drives in their NAS Range

– Max Drive Capacity is 18TB, when the PRO is now 24TB

WD Red Plus NAS Hard Drives – Quiet in Smaller Capacities, All CMR/PMR

1-12TB, 5400/7200RPM, 64-512MB Cache, 180TBW, 3yr Warranty, WD Red Plus 1-14TB (CMR) $50-319 

The WD Red plus series is is the CMR/PMR alternative to standard WD Red DM-SMR drives. Still a very quiet drive, it also arrives in larger capacities. Although it is is a fraction more expensive than the standard Seagate Ironwolf.

+ Affordable Price Tag

+ All WD Red Plus are CMR/PMR

+ Low Noise and Power Consumption in 24×7 Use

+ Good base level of Capacities Available

– Noise is Higher in Larger Capacities

– More Expensive than the Seagate Ironwolf Series (non-PRO)

Seagate Ironwolf Pro NAS Hard Drives – Fast But VERY Clicky When in Operation

4-24TB, 7200RPM, 256-512MB Cache, 300/550 TBW, 5yr Warranty, Rescue Data Recovery Services Included $80-620

Seagate Ironwolf Pro hard drives are designed for larger storage arrays, are available all the way up to 18TB (and soon HAMR 20TB drives) and unfortunately, it is at this point where hard drives start to get noticeably noisier. They arrive with free Data Recovery Services much like the standard version, but due to their more industrial design and larger storage capacities, this is a noticeably noisier hard drive. This is especially noticeable at spin-up

+ Excellent Price Point vs Ironwolf NON-Pro in the Portfolio

+ Rescue Data Recovery Services

+ MASSIVE 24TB HDD

+ ONLY CMR/PMR Drives in their NAS Range

– Smallest Drive Capacity is 4TB

– Noticable Boot Up Noise

WD Red Pro NAS Hard Drives – Noisiest WD Red Drive but also the Fastest and Largest

2-18TB, 7200RPM, 128-512MB Cache, 300TBW, 5yr Warranty $99-600 

Much like the Seagate NAS Pro drive, WD Red Pro is there industrial hard drive that is available in a larger storage capacity than any other WD Red drive, is a few degrees quieter in general operation than the Ironwolf Pro (still loud though), but is also noticeably more expensive as you look at greater HDD capacities in the range. Still, it’s a very good, reliable and rugged drive.

+ Top Tier NAS Drive Performance

+ 300TB/Y Workload

+ Build for up to 24-Bay Servers

– Certainly Noiser than non-Pro equivalents

– More Expensive than the Seagate Pro Option

Synology HAT5300 NAS Hard Drives – Loud, but a Data Center Drive at a Pro Price

8-18TB, 7200RPM, 256/512MB Cache, 550TBW, 5yr Warranty, Synology System ONLY, Firmware Control on Synology DSM $99-605  

Synology has its own range of first-party hard drives in the HAT5300 series, which although equally as noisy as most other industrial hard drives, benefits from numerous Synology brand extras like easy firmware updates and 550TBW, well as arriving with a price tag that is comparable to WD Red Pro and Seagate Ironwolf Pro drives, despite its data centre class build. A good drive but definitely at the noisier end of the spectrum.

+ Enterprise Drives at a PRO class Price

+ 550TBW on ALL Capacities

+ Drive Firmware can be Updated from within the Synology DSM GUI

– Using them in not Synology NAS Hardware is not Supported

– Performance is a pinch lower than WD Red Pro (5-15MB/s)

Western Digital Ultrastar Data Centre Hard Drives – Highest Performance, but Cover Your Ears!

1-24TB, 7200RPM, 256-512MB Cache, 550TBW, 5yr Warranty, FIPS and SED Options, SATA, SAS and U.2 NVMe SSD Options $70-489

The Western Digital Ultrastar data centre class hard drive is easily the noisiest of all the drives that are mentioned today. They have the biggest capacity, the largest range of interfaces and encryption methods supported, but definitely are the noisiest drive on this list and are not advised for use in close proximity. This is truly a data center class drive and designed specifically for use in a rack cabinet, far away!

+ Consistently High Performance

+ Well Establish HDD Drive and Brand

+ Numerous Interfaces, in-Drive Encryption Systems and Choices

– DEFINITELY one of the most confusing product ranges

– Noticeably Noisy at boot

Seagate EXOS Data Center Hard Drives – Big, Loud but Surprisingly Affordable

1-24TB, 72000RPM, 256-512MB Cache, SAS & SATA Options, 550 TBW, 5yr Warranty, $151-559

The EXOS series is the Seagate data centre class drive and is certainly a noisy one at that. Not really designed for close proximity, much like the Ultrastar class, it arrives with numerous interface options in SATA and SAS, as well as numerous encryption methods supported. Though not quite as noisy as the ultra star series, they are still quite high on decimals when in use but are a degree lower in price than Ultrastar and Ironwolf Pro.

+ Huge Range of Architecture Options (FIPS, Military Encryp, 4KN, SED, SAS and more)

+ Constantly Evolving (Mach 2 versions, x14, x16 & x18 etc)

+ Comparatively Lower in Price vs Ultrastar

– Range Can Be Confusing

– Noisy!

And there you have it, a breakdown of the current popular hard drives on the market, the noise they make and whether they provide a good noisy vs price vs capacity balance. If you need still need help choosing the right storage media, feel free to take advantage of the COMPLETELY FREE and NO REGISTRATION NEEDED advice section below. Sorry to put that last bit in capital letters and in bold, but I really do offer this service at no charge and people just like these things clear! This is a free service manned by myself (with a little help along the way) and if you can just let me know the storage requires below, your budget (no necessary, but allows me to scale it a bit to your needs and not destroy your budget) and I will get in touch as soon as you can.

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The Terramaster F4-424 Max 4-Bay NAS Leaked

The Terramaster F4-424 Max NAS is an intriguing new model that’s surfaced recently through leaks, hinting at its potential to meet the high-performance storage needs of small to medium-sized businesses. While much of the information isn’t official yet, the F4-424 Max seems to combine strong hardware with versatile storage options and advanced software, all packed into a compact and quiet design. Performance specs are also based on unofficial screenshots found online, and comparisons are being drawn to the existing F4-424 Pro NAS, which runs on an N305 CPU.

F4-424 Max Design

From what’s been leaked, the F4-424 Max looks like it’s built around a 4-bay hybrid storage setup, similar to the F4-424 Pro, but with some upgrades. It likely mixes mechanical hard drives with SSDs, optimized for a 20Gb high-speed bandwidth, aimed at delivering solid data throughput. Like its predecessor, the design includes shock-absorbing features and noise-reduction techniques to keep operations quiet—reportedly as low as 21dB(A) in standby mode—making it a good fit for quiet office settings.

F4-424 Max Ports/Connections

If the leaks are accurate, the F4-424 Max will come with a variety of ports and connections designed to handle high-speed data and versatile connectivity needs. Here’s a look at what’s expected:

These connections should allow the F4-424 Max to handle high-speed networking, expand storage, and manage data efficiently, similar to what we’ve seen with the F4-424 Pro.

F4-424 Max Internal Hardware

As for what’s inside, the leaked specs suggest the F4-424 Max is built for reliable performance. Here’s what’s rumored:

If this is accurate, the F4-424 Max is set to feature an Intel Core i5 1235U 10-core, 12-thread processor, clocking up to 4.4GHz, backed by 8GB of DDR5 memory. It also seems to have dual M.2 NVMe slots for hyper caching, which should boost storage efficiency and speed compared to the Pro model. Interestingly, that CPU choice DOES allow for Gen4 SSD architecture – so, although the 10GbE connections may well eat up a little more of those lanes, we may well see this system arriving with support of Gen4 M.2 NVMes.

Though , if so, they will likely still be at 4×2 or even 4×1 speeds.

F4-424 Max Software

The F4-424 Max is likely to run on the TOS 6 operating system (currently in Beta), which brings over 40 new features and hundreds of optimizations. If it mirrors the F4-424 Pro, you can expect support for a range of operating systems—Windows, Mac, Linux—as well as mobile platforms like iOS and Android. Here’s a rundown of what’s likely included:

• RAID Support: Single, RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10, plus TerraMaster’s TRAID/TRAID Plus for flexible array management.
• Snapshot Services: For easy data recovery in case of accidental deletion or modification.
• Centralized Backup: Managing backups for Windows workstations, file servers, and virtual machines.
• Cloud Sync: With major cloud providers like Google Drive, OneDrive, Amazon S3, Dropbox, Baidu, and Alibaba Cloud.
• File Management: SMB/AFP/NFS/FTP/SFTP/WebDAV support, user quota management, and detailed access control.

These features would make the F4-424 Max a versatile tool for managing data across multiple platforms, just like its sibling, the F4-424 Pro. We made a brief video about TOS 6 (early Beta) and you can watch the video below:

F4-424 Max Performance?

Based on what’s been pieced together from screenshots, the F4-424 Max seems to deliver solid performance. Expected write speeds could reach up to 2090MB/s, with 4K random read/write speeds around 400MB/s. This puts it in the ballpark for handling virtualization, database tasks, and multimedia streaming. The hybrid design of the F4-424 Max suggests it will make good use of both SSDs and mechanical hard drives, optimizing performance and storage space. With dual 10GbE network ports, it might achieve a combined bandwidth of up to 20Gbps, enhancing how quickly it can move large files or manage complex workflows. However, the 4K random write speeds, while respectable, might not fully exploit the potential of NVMe SSDs on a 20GbE network, hinting at a possible internal bottleneck—maybe linked to the PCIe controller. This means that, while it should perform well overall, the F4-424 Max might not hit the absolute peak performance in every scenario, especially for write-heavy tasks. We will have to wait for further corroborated details from Terramaster and/or when we have a F4-424 Max NAS Device in the studio!

F4-424 Max Price and Release

The Terramaster F4-424 Max NAS looks like it could be a solid choice for businesses needing a reliable storage solution. It seems to offer a good mix of performance, connectivity, and advanced features, packed into a compact, quiet design—much like the F4-424 Pro.

The price isn’t confirmed, but early online listings suggest it could be around $899.99. However, since much of this information is based on leaks, and the price is still unconfirmed, we’ll need official details to fully understand its capabilities. Potential users might also want to consider the possibility of write performance bottlenecks. Overall, while the F4-424 Max shows promise, a definitive verdict will have to wait until more official information is available. It looks like it will see release in September/October 2024.

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Finding Out More About the HexOS NAS Software, Where it lives with TrueNAS Scale and Whether it Might Deserve Your Data

A little over a month ago, HexOS (the NAS software that has been in quiet development, first publicly addressed on LTT back in Dec 2022 and covered HERE on NC) popped it’s head up above the parapet to tell users a little more about what it is trying to be, trying to solve and how it plans to do it. Details were still pretty light on the ground and so I reached out to the guys at HexOS to ask if they would be open to a user Q&A about their product, to which they happily agreed. This article is the results of that Q&A and 3+ weeks of question collecting from numerous sources (more on that in a bit). This article represents the official responses to those questions, as well as the hour long youtube video that contains a brief setup demo of HexOS, as well as extended answers to all those questions (and a bunch of extra ones thrown in by me on the fly). Additionally, since the recent news on HexOS becoming public, other public posts have emerged by both HexOS and their partner ‘iXsystems’ (AKA TrueNAS), which you can read below:

Useful References and Links:

• TrueNAS / iXsystems Announcement About HexOS Partnership – HERE
• Recent Post on HexOS about their product – HERE
• Signup here for updates on HexOS Beta News – HERE

So, let’s get to the results of that Q&A / AMA.

HexOS User Q&A – The TL;DR:

Jonathan from HexOS provided a detailed look at the platform’s integration with TrueNAS SCALE, emphasizing its mission to simplify home server management for both casual users and content creators. HexOS aims to streamline the experience by curating applications, ensuring that users have an easy-to-navigate system that doesn’t require deep technical knowledge. However, for those who need more advanced features, the full TrueNAS SCALE web UI is just a click away, allowing users to dive deeper into customization if they choose. Remote access is handled through the HexOS Command Deck, which offers secure, straightforward management without directly interacting with user data. Backup features are robust, with options for server-to-server, OS-native agents, encrypted cloud backups, and a buddy backup feature, allowing users to store data on a friend’s HexOS server for added security. Although the HexOS UI is designed to be fully responsive and work well on mobile devices, features like a dedicated mobile app, in-system HexOS control UI, and additional client app tools are planned but will only be confirmed after the 1.0 release.

In terms of pricing, HexOS is set to offer a lifetime license option, making it a one-time purchase for users, though other pricing models are still being discussed and finalized. The platform is on track for a beta release in Q3 2024, during which a select group of users will be able to test out the system and provide feedback. One of the key strengths of HexOS is its flexibility; users can easily switch back to managing their systems directly through TrueNAS SCALE without any complicated conversions or additional steps, ensuring that they are never locked into the HexOS ecosystem if they decide they need something different. Initially, support will be offered through community-driven channels like forums and Discord, but there are longer-term plans to introduce premium support options, offering more personalized help for those who need it. These premium options, along with other post-launch developments, are part of a broader roadmap that HexOS plans to explore after the 1.0 release, ensuring that the platform continues to evolve based on user needs and feedback.

User Questions About HexOS – IMPORTANT

Below are the questions that were put to Jonathan Pannozzo, CEO of Estek and co-developer of HexOS. The Interview was conducted on Thursday 8th August 2024, and comprised questions that were provided by users on an earlier YouTube Short, recent news video, social posts, NASCompares Inner Circle and over email. Additionally, questions were submitted to HexOS 3 days before the interview, to ensure that responses could be sufficiently researched. The full interview was recorded and published on YouTube (video below, with much further detail on each question, more questions were added on-the-fly and is chapterized) and a short demonstration was also provided on how HexOS conducted an initial system setup. Thanks again to Jon for his time in answering the questions.

I really cannot stress enough HOW MUCH MORE detail the questions are answered in the video, as well as how many more questions are added by me, so I recommend you grab a coffee/beer and watch it.

The hour long recording of the call can watched here (or embedded below):

Video Chapters

00:00 – The Start 01:46 – HexOS Setup Demo 06:45 – Pool Config Recommendations? 07:21 – Compatibility and Verification? 08:44 – Why Online? 18:48 – Default Folder and Permissions? 20:13 – is HexOS REALLY an OS? 24:14 – How Much of TrueNAS Scale is Controllable? 26:06 – TrueNAS Clean Install? Scale to Hex Migration? 28:31 – How Much of TrueNAS Scale is Controllable or Fixed in HexOS? 30:04 – App Repositories? 31:08 – Remote Access and Transmission? 32:24 – Advanced Access when needed? 33:26 – How much control/freedom does HexOS have in TrueNAS Scale development? 34:47 – Containers 35:36 – Buddy Backups? 37:11 – Permission Controls and Maintenace 39:11 – Why should tech-savvy people care about HexOS? 42:21 – TrueNAS Security Updates 44:20 – Mobile client app? 45:01 – TrueNAS devs collaboration? 46:55 – Mixed Drive deployment 49:29 – Backup Agents? 51:32 – Boot drive wasted space? 55:35 – Price models and Licencing 57:37 – Support 58:18 – Leaving HexOS? 01:01:00 – Beta?

Below are each question and the official consolidated response from Jon/HexOS on each. Thanks again to users for supplying so many questions and I hope they represented the bulk of the queries that were sent. Selected user Qs (represented by their @ usernames) often represented numerous other similar questions and were chosen without prejudice…well..apart from @Eddiethewebguy’s one…

@Eddiethewebguy (consolidation of about 20 Qs)

HexOS’ name suggests that this is an Operating System, but everything upto this point suggests this is a layer on top of TrueNAS scale. Is HexOS really an OS or is it just a skin?

Unlike Microsoft, Linux makes defining an operating system more complicated.  All Linux-based OSes make use of the Linux kernel.  Without the kernel, it isn’t Linux.  However, the kernel is used by many different platforms like Ubuntu, Debian, Red Hat, etc.  These are typically referred to as “Distributions.”  Further still, there are plenty of projects that build off of these distributions to create their own unique offerings.  TrueNAS SCALE and SteamOS are both based on Debian Linux as an example.  Yet while we refer to Debian as a distribution, many would also call it an OS.  So when can you really call yourself an OS vs. a distribution vs. something else entirely?  We think what you call it is dependent on what you’re ultimately shipping to the user to install.  In our case, we’re shipping an entire OS.

And we are most definitely not a “skin”.  Skins are more or less just alternative presentations of the UI/UX, but generally do not completely reimagine the product.  They also don’t provide ancillary services or features separate from the original software.

We are a combination of simplified UI, automations, workflows, and managed services to make owning a home server easy.  Skins don’t do that.

The main reason we call ourselves an OS is because it’s a lot easier to explain than, “well we’re actually a managed services platform for a Linux-based variant of the Debian distribution known as TrueNAS SCALE.”  And to the user’s we’re targeting, these details don’t really matter.

@servern0mix

How Much of the TrueNAS SCALE Backend are we talking about? Does HexOS give me access to all the features of TrueNAS Scale, but in a most user friendly fashion?

While the entirety of TrueNAS SCALE is available to us, we are very focused on features valued by home users and content creators. It’s not in our mission to translate every feature from the SCALE webUI into HexOS. And remember, the SCALE webUI is just a click away for any missing TrueNAS features that you require.

@pent10s

How much is going to be silent-backend TrueNAS/ZFS Feature set and how much is going to be user-controlled? (eg ZFS Snapshots, Encryption)

We see snapshots being either time or event driven, but one of those events could be a manual snapshot taken by a user. Encryption in some cases will be automatic, such as when a user wants to backup data to a buddy.

@huncli88

Will applications that are available to simply download and install be curated, or will HexOS have access to the same repositories as TrueNAS Scale?

We are definitely curating applications, and non-curated apps could be loaded through the SCALE webUI, like any other advanced feature. The ability to install non-curated apps through the HexOS UI is TBD.

@Cr Vaughan Williams, Bendigo Councillor

Can HexOS be installed on an existing install of TrueNAS Scale.. Or will it need to be a clean install.

As of now, we will only apply to new installations, but a future roadmap consideration would be the ability to adopt an existing SCALE deployment

@Fanboy41

How to they plan to implement remote access?

Local DNS is an awful UX for the non-IT savvy. Depending on the device type, you may need to append “.local” to the hostname. Browsers get picky sometimes when you don’t type the “https://” first when entering a hostname, thinking you’re just entering a search term. And even if you get an SSL self-signed cert, you still have to go through that browser nag security warning when connecting via https. And let’s not forget about IP address changes and flushing of the local DNS cache. Us IT-savvy folk know how to deal with all of these challenges. We’ve been dealing with them since our first self-hosted solution when we were just wee lads. But we’re trying to bring this solution to a wider audience that doesn’t have that experience and that means solving for those problems. It’s the same reason why we use the HexOS connector. Sure we could tell users “Go open this port on your firewall and forward it to this LAN IP” but for the customers we’re going after, we’ll have lost their interest after hearing “port” and “firewall.”

Doing things this way allows us to provide updates to the underlying OS directly from TrueNAS (iX). We will provide a custom ISO that connects servers to our HexOS Command Deck and ensure that persists through OS updates from TrueNAS directly. We do intend to gatekeep the update process in our UI to give us a chance to test new releases from TrueNAS before allowing our community to update en masse, but if you wanted to be brave, you could drop to the SCALE webUI and update directly as it would pull from the same source. More than likely everything will continue to work in the HexOS UI, but “Ye be warned…”

The TrueNAS SCALE UI is always available locally.

We’re not stepping in the data path directly, just management, so your data and privacy stays local to you. In addition, if the Internet goes down, all your apps and data are still available to users on the LAN. And as a benefit to us, management traffic is incredibly lightweight compared to data, making this very scalable in our infrastructure. We’re also not ruling out providing some type of local UI in the future, though it would be severely gimped compared to anything we build on the Command Deck. Basic “replace failed drives, stop/start apps and vms, etc.” only. And it would only be available after the initial configuration was complete (likely as a Docker container). Further still, it is not an objective for us prior to 1.0.

And while I completely understand the skepticism of vendor lock-in, we have none. Users always can ditch HexOS for native TrueNAS SCALE. It is on-us to keep delivering enough value to keep our users on our platform, because there is nothing we’re doing to force them to stay, even with a hosted UI/UX for management.

@haydenlong3764

How granular will we be able to go within HexOS? I like simplicity, but if I cannot dig deep when I need to it will be more annoying than useful. From the images posted it seems like it might be “baby’s first NAS” oriented, will this be useful for people who are new to this space but still interested in tinkering?

While our priority is definitely on making things easy, the SCALE webUI and CLI are always there for most advanced user needs

@Robbieonthetube (Yes, it’s me, sue me. This was a common statement)

How much development freedom does HexOS Have? For example, a flexible RAID system comparable to Synology Hybrid RAID, or an easy migration tool for users who want to carry over from an existing 3rd party NAS environment – These are not in TrueNAS Scale, but are their plans for, or the freedom for HexOS, to develop features/functions like these?

We do not have any immediate plans to implement alternative storage solutions. We are also not limited by the SCALE API in terms of providing additional functionality. The partnership agreement between TrueNAS and HexOS doesn’t impede our development path, or limit us from building additional functionality outside of what is available in SCALE itself.

@captain_magnus

Which of these will be supported; Podman, Kubernetes, Incus?

Kubernetes is being deprecated in favor of Docker Compose, which has been public knowledge for some time now. Beyond that, all I can say is that we are working with TrueNAS and they are planning some big improvements which will be announced in the near future.

@Josef Tegnér

Is any mirror functionality planned? I.e me and my HexOS friend give eachother space on our eachothers server (for offsite backup.).

Yes!  In fact this was one of Linus’ most important features that he has wanted from us. It is on our roadmap.

@snowwild3445

Application certification and maintenance, security etc – will users have functionally, yet user friendly controls of app permissions (akin to an app on a google phone, with it’s permission settings?).

Our vision for apps is to make the platform transparent to the user and the experience akin to that of a smartphone. We also want to personally curate a catalog of apps for users to be able to trust and rely upon for the long-haul. Curation to us means a lot more than just building and maintaining a container. It means integrating the actual storage/server/app workflows together. As an example, say you need an app to manage your media library like Plex. Plex needs a media library to exist.  A place where you will put your media files. We don’t want to ask the user to first create that place if it doesn’t already exist. Instead, we can script the process of creating folders where necessary or mapping to existing folders if they exist. This concept also applies to upgrading your system. Say you add a dedicated GPU.  Upon restarting, we can detect that new hardware and suggest possible uses (e.g. acceleration for your existing media server transcoding or attaching it to a virtual machine).

@praetorxyn

If I am capable of using TrueNAS Scale / Docker / etc. already, is there any reason for me to care about this? In other words, how would the developers pitch HexOS to tech savvy people?

One of the reasons Eric and I set out to build HexOS was so that we would have a solution we could comfortably recommend to our friends and family that aren’t IT-minded. We see a huge difference between being “tech savvy” and “IT savvy”. A tech savvy person may be able to build their own PC but not necessarily their own server. Concepts like RAID, parity, caching, etc. can be difficult to understand and most users just want something that works. While you may not be a user, if you value your own setup and want your less IT-centric friends and family to be able to gain similar values, recommend HexOS to them!

@DavidJones-pi8rl

I was originally a QNAP NAS device user then moved to unraid about 6 years ago. A key reason was the security issues seemed to keep appearing multiple times a year in the late 2010’s. How is HexOS going to balance continues feature updates versus without compromising security and ensuring user trust is kept.

We’re all too familiar with issues that multiple vendors have had and continue to have relating to timely security, bugfix, and general updates.Th is is one of the benefits of and reasons we partnered with TrueNAS. They have decades of experience and a great track record of consistently delivering timely security and maintenance updates for their platforms. And all HexOS stable releases will be based on stable TrueNAS releases, ensuring…well…stability!

@lucasmedeiros2471

Will it have its own mobile app?

The entire UI/UX has a responsive design and we do have plans for mobile apps for both iOS and Android. This is especially important to us for users that want to use their home server also as a PC.

@Spreadie 

Is this a standalone overlay for Scale, or are they working with TrueNAS devs? If they are collaborating with devs, will they have any input on driver development direction?

We announced our partnership with TrueNAS at the end of July and we absolutely communicate and coordinate with them on a regular basis. While we have some influence on roadmap, we are incredibly happy with the direction of SCALE’s development and so far our requests have been few and far between. We haven’t had any need to push for any driver-specific development.

@andreas.grundler

One of the advantages of Unraid over TrueNas is that you can use hard disks of different sizes. Will there be something similar with HexOS?

We have no intention of supporting the mixing and matching of drive sizes. Doing so comes with significant sacrifices to performance and functionality. Unraid themselves seem to acknowledge this given the recent change to demote the array to optional functionality, disabled by default. We intend to publish a blog in the future to serve as a competitive analysis against other players in our space, Unraid being one. In it, we will dive much deeper into the shortcomings and flaws of the mix/match drives feature.

@DarrenReidAu

Will there be a simple backup solution with agents for all major OSes including Linux (eg, Ubuntu/Debian based distros)?

Users can expect to leverage backup functionality in three primary ways:

• Backing up data from one HexOS server to another.
• Backing up data from devices using native OS agents (Windows Backup / Time Machine)
• Backing up data to an encrypted cloud storage solution. Anything beyond those primary solutions is outside the scope of our roadmap to 1.0.

Anything beyond those primary solutions is outside the scope of our roadmap to 1.0. That said, we won’t rule out native apps for major OSes as a future roadmap item.

@fedrr

Will HexOS allow partitioning install drive not to waste whole ssd for boot pool? Or allow creation of datasets on boot pool? Or is it just using Truenas as basis that does not provide such functionality out of the box?

No plans to change how TrueNAS partitions boot devices at this time.

@jereyfmoses

How will HexOS fund itself going forward? Dontations? Licence fees? If so, any word on the pricing?

We’re not ready to confirm pricing today, but we can reveal a few details. HexOS will be sold as a lifetime subscription. This lifetime subscription would include features such as:

• The HexOS Command Deck (deck.hexos.com)
• Our setup and configuration wizard
• Anywhere management access
• Email notifications
• Folders, users, and storage management
• Apps and VMs

More detailed information on our licensing and pricing will be revealed soon.

@ma77evalet

Support Model? How will end users get support and will it arrive with free/tiered pricing? Community Support, Admins etc, free?

Free support for HexOS will be obtainable through community channels such as our forums and discord server which will be launching soon. Longer-term we do have plans to offer premium support options, but we’re not ready to reveal details at this time and these options would not launch until sometime after our 1.0 release.

@LordApophis100

Will there be an upgrade path to vanilla Scale if a user “outgrows” HexOS and wants more control/advanced features?

Users can disconnect from HexOS at any time they want and continue managing their system through TrueNAS SCALE directly, no upgrade or conversion required. That said, many TrueNAS SCALE features can be used in conjunction with HexOS, though there may be some limitations. If you disconnect from HexOS, you still have to cancel your subscription to Turbo should you have one.

@martyn334

ETA on any beta?

We’re still on target to get our first test users in Q3. More details on the beta are also coming soon.

Thank you once again for Jonathan’s time for the interview and we look forward to seeing the beta launch. You can sign up for news of the HexOS beta via the page below (takes you to Hexos.com):

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
[contact-form-7]
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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

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If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

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NAS for Plex Media Server – The Mistakes People ALWAYS Make!

If you have decided to invest in a network-attached storage device to host your Plex media server, then congratulations, you are close to owning one of the easiest and most user-friendly multimedia home server options out there with a GUI and features that rival the likes of Netflix and more. Although paid subscription streaming services can be very attractive and affordable in the short-term, in the long-term you end up paying for content you don’t own, a limited choice of content that changes regularly and even end up having to watch the occasion advert – on a PAID platform?! Many of us own hundreds of boxsets and movies at home in digital form, or in disc form that is waiting to be switched to a more streamable form, that you can simply load onto a NAS and then enjoy the benefits of Plex with. However, although the price of a solid NAS has come down substantially and the ease of setup never being more simple, there are still many common mistakes that people make when buying a NAS for a Plex media server the first time. These errors end up ich either costing more money to resolve or have to be endured until the next upgrade. In order to help you choose the right NAS for plex correctly the first time, I have compiled a list of the most common mistakes that NAS buyers make when choosing a solution. Some are small and some are large, but all of them are easy things to miss as you narrow down the choices. So here are 8 common mistakes made by Plex users when choosing their first NAS.

Extra Point! If you already have a Plex NAS users and having difficulty, I have already made several other guides on how to make the most of your plex NAS, as well as fix some common issues people encounter. You can click one of the articles below to open it in another tab and learn more. Alternatively, you can scroll to the bottom of the page and use the free advice section here on NASCompares.

Plex NAS CPU and Embedded Graphics

This is easy to miss and a common one as something that a number of brands will often try to skip over when talking about the hardware specifications of a NAS. There are many CPUs that are popular in the NAS world (Intel Celeron’s, Ryzens, Xeons and ARM v8s for example), more specifically targeted towards efficiency and long-term use. These processes, unlike gaming PCs, are designed for use for days, weeks and months at a time and do not have the luxury of liquid cooling systems or customised temperature control systems inside. Despite this, the range CPU used in NAS is still very diverse and unsurprisingly, many users will assume that a CPU with a high-performance speed in Gigahertz (GHz) and a larger number of cores will be best for Plex media server use. However, a processor that features embedded graphics, integrated graphics, on-board graphics or whatever they like to call it, will always perform better than a likewise processor without it in a single comparative playback. There are some remarkably affordable Celeron and Pentium processors on the market that can often outperform some Xeon processors at Plex media server performance, thanks to these CPU having an element of hardware onboard that is dedicated to visual and graphical structured data. A more powerful CPU may still ultimately handle more high-end media than a lesser Pentium or Celeron, however, it WILL use substantially more resources in order to do it. Always check to see if there is an embedded graphics CPU alternative before purchasing a non-GPU equipped CPU. I recommend an Intel Xeon-W series or the Intel i3/i5/i7 Core range processor.

Plex NAS and NOISE!

Something that I discuss a great deal on YouTube when discussing more powerful NAS solutions is the subject of noise. As soon as you start to consider more capable CPU NAS solutions, as well as consider larger enclosures for more capacity and scalability, you will have to prepare for the inconvenience of ambient noise. More enterprise drives with click, hum and wurr whilst in operation. Likewise, because more powerfully equipped CPU NAS feature passive cooling systems (rear fans and heat sinks), they often rely more on the chassis to assist the heat dissipation. The ultimate conclusion is that more high-performance NAS systems generally produce a large degree of ambient noise whilst in operation.

If you plan on installing your Plex NAS in an attic or suitably insulated location, this will be less of a concern. However, if you plan on being in close proximity to the NAS whilst enjoying the multimedia on your Plex server, the general background noise can be distracting at best and downright infuriating at worst.

Plex NAS and Appropriate Memory!

Most NAS systems that are recommended or advertised for use as Plex media servers will arrive with at least 2GB of memory. Considering that some people are able to run Plex media servers from as little as a raspberry pi, 2 GB of memory sounds like absolutely loads. However, the Plex media server component of this device is running on top of the NAS architecture and system software, which commands its own requirements with regard to CPU and memory utilisation. The result is that although 2GB of memory might seem like enough, it is highly recommended that you buy a NAS with 4GB of memory, or at least the ability to upgrade your available memory later in the lifespan of the system. The differences between DDR3 and DDR4 memory when it comes to Plex are pretty small ultimately, but the improved performance of a NAS with 4GB over 2GB is massive in terms of large media handling.

PLEX NAS Playback and 4K, HEVC/H.265 and HDR/10bit

Multimedia in 2024, especially 4K and 1080p high-definition media is not as straight forward as it once was. In order for video files to maintain incredible picture quality as the standards of playback client devices improve, multimedia file types and practices in their creation have had to evolve. This is made possible by the use of video compression techniques and superior format creation. Ultimately, that means that not all video files are created equal and high-end material, such as HDR and HEVC/H.265 require more advanced hardware to playback the media or software licences by the manufacturer in order to support the format.

The result is that some media files of this higher compression and format require powerful systems in order to be played, or in most cases will need to be automatically transcoded, to be reshaped into a more suitable format for client devices to play. Ways around this include utilising embedded GPU architecture on the CPU to get the job done or (as found in the case of QNAP) the ability to add licence support for the codex with additional smaller fees (in Cayin player). If the bulk of your media collection arrives in h264 or you plan on only using low to mid-level HD/4K content, you should be fine with something between an Intel Celeron and Intel Pentium.

Plex NAS – Freemium vs Subscription with Plex Pass

One of the main benefits and motivations of hosting a media server on a NAS is because most users like the idea of making one large payment at the beginning and never having to pay any long-term monthly subscription costs as the years go by, as found in Amazon Prime, Netflix and more. Indeed, Plex media server is available for your NAS and client devices (phone, TV, etc) for free. However, some people are still unaware that some of the premium and fully-featured functionality Plex is only available with additional monthly payments or a larger one-off lifetime membership with the Plex pass system. You do not need to this for general use, enjoying the scraping of metadata for making your media look good and even for sharing access to your collection with other users. However, features such as hardware transcoding, Live TV recording, connection with streaming services and improved content applications within Plex itself require you to pay. Ultimately most of these services can be ignored, but if you are using a NAS with embedded graphics or even a pre-installed GPU, then the option to use hardware transcoding is unavoidable.

Plex NAS and HDMI Out in 2024

Many users have seen that a number of systems arrive with additional HDMI ports and support of remote controls and peripherals. This means that rather than trying to push huge 4K multimedia files through your network (potentially maxing your bandwidth) to Plex client devices, you can output the NAS directly to a 4K TV and control it like any TV box. Up until early 2020 or so, this was a surprisingly easy and versatile option. However now in 2024, there are fewer Plex HDMI out applications available for common NAS brands, as well as reduced development by both Plex themselves and third-party developers to continue improving the existing tools. That means that although Plex over HDMI on a NAS is still possible, it is far less smooth and stable than it once was.

Do you even NEED transcoding on your Plex NAS?

Transcoding is a word that is thrown around a lot when it comes to streaming media privately from your own server. In its most basic form, transcoding simply means the changing of a multimedia file to a version that is better suited for the client environment. Maybe you own the latest Marvel movie in 4k UHD HEVC HDR/10bit format, which is great for your new OLED TV, but is huge overkill in terms of picture quality and file size to watch on your iPhone 7. So transcoding can allow Plex to change a file on-the-fly before it leaves the NAS and allows the client watching hardware to access a much smaller version, the still looks perfect on the device, but is far less taxing on its hardware and significantly reduces data consumption while streaming. Now, that is all fantastic and I have been making videos on the subject of transcoding for a number of years that help users understand how well individual NAS systems perform in different files types, but it still has to be noted that transcoding is not ESSENTIAL! If you intend to watch most of your multimedia on devices at home (ie on the same network as the NAS), plan on enjoying the content on high profile and prosumer devices made in the last year or two, OR don’t really plan on using metered or limited data connections when connecting with plex – then you really are not going to need transcoding at all! If you JUST want to watch your media and have the client hardware deices and connectivity to handle the hard/dense 4K media, then you can actually be quite conservative and opt for a I3/Pentium/Celeron NAS system, perhaps even a non-GPU equipped CPU like an Intel Atom or Ryzen Embedded Processor seen in recent releases (if you aren’t looking to go hardcode-4K).

Your Plex NAS needs to be connected to the Internet!

This is something that alot of first time NAS buyers who are considering Plex Media server (as well as NVIDIA Shielf, modded Mac Mini and Raspberry Pi users) do not quite know. When accessing your NAS multimedia with Plex and Plex Media Server, you do generally need to have the NAS and/or client connected to the internet. If you are accessing your device over the network (ie Fire TV near the sofa, NAS in the attic, both on the same network), you will still need the NAS to be connected to the internet. This is because Plex will need to ping it’s own servers periodically, update background processes, periodic metadata scraping and just generally requires an internet connection (especially for Plex Pass use). In fact, if you have the NAS on the network, but not connected to the internet (as you need to create, register and connect a Plex User Account to start connect the plex media directories), then you will not even be able to connect to the Plex server and complete the initialization. For many of us, this is not a huge deal, as the amount of internet-connected data used is tiny, or that they want to access Plex externally anyway means this was their plan all along. However, if you were hoping to use plex completely and utterly disconnected from the Internet and rely solely on the network for connectivity, you are likely going to encounter period accessibility issues and hurdles along the way.

And there you have it, 8 of the most comment mistakes and early hurdles faced by first time Plex NAS Buyers. If you are still on the fence, need guidance about the RIGHT solution for your multimedia needs (size, power, budget. etc), then use the free advice section below to message me and I will help you narrow down the very best solution for your needs. Bear in mind that this is ONLY manned by me, is not run for profit and is unbiased 1-to-1 advice, so I might take an extra day or two to reply. Thanks for reading!

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A History Lesson on NAS Security Incidents – STAY SAFE!

As someone who has long relied on Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices for both personal and professional use, I’ve come to appreciate the convenience and functionality they offer. These devices provide a centralized and easily accessible repository for my important data, making them indispensable tools in my digital life. However, with this convenience comes a significant risk: the ever-present threat of cyberattacks. Over the past 15 years, we’ve seen numerous high-profile security incidents targeting NAS devices, underscoring the vulnerabilities inherent in these systems.

In this article, I want to take a closer look at some of the most significant security breaches that have impacted NAS devices from major brands like QNAP, Synology, Asustor, Terramaster, Western Digital, Netgear, and Buffalo. I’ll delve into each incident, exploring the specific vulnerabilities that were exploited, the methods used by attackers, and the devastating impacts on users and organizations. To make this information more accessible, I’ll provide user-friendly explanations that demystify the technical details, helping even those without a technical background understand how these attacks were carried out. Beyond recounting these incidents, I aim to identify commonalities among the attacks, highlighting recurring themes and valuable lessons we can all learn from. Finally, I’ll offer comprehensive recommendations on settings, setup options, and security measures that we can implement to protect our NAS devices from similar threats. By understanding these past incidents and adopting proactive security measures, we can better safeguard our valuable data and ensure the integrity of our NAS systems against future cyber threats.

Which NAS Security Settings Should You Focus On (TL;DR)?

Enhance your NAS device’s security by keeping firmware updated, using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, disabling unnecessary services, and using VPNs. Implement firewalls, IP access control, and regularly monitor logs. Ensure backups, use antivirus software, encrypt connections, set user permissions, and disable default admin accounts. Employ auto block for failed logins, utilize security scanning apps, limit client access with tools like Tailscale, disable SSH when not in use, and disable unused network protocols.

By implementing these suggested security measures, you can greatly enhance the protection of your NAS device against various cyber threats.

1. QNAP NAS Devices and QLocker Ransomware (2021)

• Vulnerability: Exploited the SQL injection vulnerability in QNAP Photo Station.
• CVE: CVE-2020-36195
• Vulnerability Explained: A SQL injection vulnerability occurs when an attacker can insert or “inject” malicious SQL code into a query through an input field or parameter. In the case of QNAP’s Photo Station, the application didn’t properly sanitize user inputs, allowing attackers to manipulate database queries. This manipulation gave attackers unauthorized access to the NAS system. They used this access to execute commands that should have been restricted, effectively bypassing normal authentication controls. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can provide attackers with full control over the database and, by extension, potentially the entire system.
• Exploitation: Attackers exploited a SQL injection vulnerability in the Photo Station app to gain unauthorized access and used 7-Zip to encrypt files.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine you have a house with a poorly designed lock on one of the windows (the Photo Station app). The attackers found this weak spot and used a special tool (SQL injection) to open the window and sneak inside. Once inside, they didn’t steal anything right away. Instead, they put all your valuable items into strong, locked boxes (using 7-Zip to encrypt the files) and took the keys with them. Now, you can’t access any of your valuables unless you pay them to get the keys back (paying the ransom). They demanded the payment in Bitcoin, which is like asking for payment in an untraceable form of digital cash.
• Brand Impacted: QNAP
• Impact: Thousands of QNAP NAS devices were affected, with users unable to access their files unless they paid the ransom in Bitcoin. Reports indicate that over 1,000 devices were infected within the first few days of the attack. The total financial impact on users was significant, as the ransom demands ranged from $200 to $1,200 per device. The attack caused widespread disruption, with many users losing access to critical data.
• Resolution: QNAP released security updates to patch the vulnerabilities and provided instructions for mitigating the attack.
• Link: QNAP Security Advisory
• Link: Official QNAP Response and Suggestions for Mitigation

2. Synology NAS Devices and SynoLocker Ransomware (2014)

• Vulnerability: Targeted vulnerabilities in DSM software, particularly outdated firmware and weak passwords.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: The vulnerabilities in Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM) software were primarily due to outdated firmware and weak passwords. Outdated firmware often contains known security flaws that have been patched in later versions, but if not updated, these flaws remain exploitable. Weak passwords are easily guessed or cracked using brute-force attacks, where attackers systematically try all possible password combinations until the correct one is found. These vulnerabilities made it relatively easy for attackers to gain unauthorized access to Synology NAS devices, especially those that were not properly secured.
• Exploitation: Attackers used brute-force methods and exploited known vulnerabilities in outdated DSM software to encrypt files and demand ransom.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Think of your NAS as a safe in your home. The attackers used two main strategies to break in. First, they used brute-force attacks, which is like trying millions of different combinations on the safe’s lock (password) until it opens. Second, they exploited known vulnerabilities in the DSM software, similar to using a master key that fits because of a flaw in the safe’s design (old software bugs). Once they got in, they didn’t steal anything outright. Instead, they locked everything inside the safe with their own lock and told you that you need to pay them (ransom) to get the new combination to open it.
• Brand Impacted: Synology
• Impact: Thousands of Synology NAS devices were encrypted, causing significant disruption and data loss. The attack highlighted the importance of updating firmware and using strong, unique passwords. Users reported substantial financial losses and operational downtime, with ransom demands typically around $350 to $400 in Bitcoin. This attack prompted many users to reevaluate their security practices and invest in better protection measures.
• Resolution: Synology released security updates and tools to help users check their systems and advised on strengthening security settings.
• Link: Synology Security Advisory
• Link: Official Synology Response and Suggestions for Mitigation

3. QNAP, Asustor, and Terramaster NAS Devices and DeadBolt Ransomware (2022)

• Vulnerability: Targeted unspecified vulnerabilities in NAS firmware.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: The exact vulnerabilities exploited by DeadBolt ransomware were not publicly disclosed, but they likely involved flaws in the NAS firmware or application software that allowed unauthorized access. Such vulnerabilities can include weak authentication mechanisms, unpatched software bugs, or misconfigurations that leave the system exposed to external attacks. These types of vulnerabilities can be exploited to gain administrative access, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands, including deploying ransomware.
• Exploitation: Attackers exploited vulnerabilities in the NAS firmware to gain unauthorized access and encrypt users’ files.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Picture your NAS as a highly secure filing cabinet. The attackers discovered secret weaknesses (unspecified vulnerabilities) in the cabinet’s lock system that weren’t known to the public. They exploited these weaknesses to sneak into the cabinet. Once inside, they didn’t take the documents but instead locked them in new folders with padlocks and took the keys with them. Now, if you want to access your documents, you need to pay the attackers to get the keys to these new padlocks. The ransom was typically requested in Bitcoin, a form of digital currency that is hard to trace.
• Brands Impacted: QNAP, Asustor, Terramaster
• Impact: Significant number of NAS users across these brands found their files encrypted and were unable to access them without paying the ransom. The DeadBolt ransomware was particularly widespread, affecting thousands of devices globally. Reports indicated that over 3,600 QNAP devices alone were compromised. The financial impact was substantial, with ransom demands often exceeding $1,000 per device. This attack caused major disruptions for both personal and business users, highlighting the critical need for robust security measures and regular updates.
• Resolution: QNAP, Asustor, and Terramaster released firmware updates and provided steps for users to secure their devices. They also advised users to disconnect their NAS from the internet when not in use and to implement strong security practices.
• Links: Our Article on ‘Are NAS Drives Safe?‘ which covers each incident in more detail + video links

4. WD My Book Live Devices Wiped by Exploit (2021)

• Vulnerability: Remote command execution vulnerability in My Book Live firmware.
• CVE: CVE-2018-18472
• Vulnerability Explained: Remote command execution vulnerabilities allow attackers to run arbitrary commands on a device from a remote location. This specific vulnerability (CVE-2018-18472) was due to a flaw in the My Book Live firmware that allowed unauthorized users to send commands to the device over the internet. These commands could be used to perform actions such as factory resetting the device, deleting all stored data. Such vulnerabilities are critical because they provide full control over the device to the attacker without requiring physical access.
• Exploitation: Attackers exploited the vulnerability to perform remote factory resets, wiping data from the devices.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine your NAS is like a digital storage box that holds all your important files. The attackers found an old flaw (CVE-2018-18472) that allowed them to send a command from far away (remote command execution) telling the box to reset itself to the way it was when it was brand new. This reset deleted all the data stored inside, similar to wiping everything off a computer when you restore it to factory settings. Because of this command, all your files were erased, causing significant distress and data loss.
• Brand Impacted: Western Digital
• Impact: Thousands of users reported complete data loss, causing significant distress. The attack was widespread, affecting users globally. Estimates suggest that tens of thousands of devices were potentially vulnerable, with a significant portion being affected. The total impact included not only the loss of personal and business data but also the trust in the security of Western Digital products.
• Resolution: Western Digital advised users to disconnect devices from the internet and offered data recovery services and discounts on newer products.
• Link: Western Digital Advisory

5. QNAP NAS Devices and eCh0raix Ransomware (2019)

• Vulnerability: Exploited weak passwords and vulnerabilities in QNAP firmware.
• CVE: CVE-2019-7192, CVE-2019-7193
• Vulnerability Explained: The eCh0raix ransomware exploited two primary vulnerabilities in QNAP devices: weak passwords and specific software flaws. CVE-2019-7192 and CVE-2019-7193 were vulnerabilities that allowed attackers to bypass authentication and gain administrative access to the NAS. Weak passwords compounded the issue by making it easier for attackers to perform brute-force attacks, systematically guessing passwords until they found the correct one. Once inside, the attackers could deploy ransomware to encrypt files.
• Exploitation: The ransomware used brute-force attacks and exploited known firmware vulnerabilities to encrypt files and demand ransom.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine your NAS as a secure vault. The attackers used two main methods to get in. First, they used brute-force attacks, which is like trying every possible combination to guess the password of your vault (weak passwords). Second, they took advantage of known software bugs (CVE-2019-7192 and CVE-2019-7193) that had not been fixed, similar to using a skeleton key that works because of a design flaw. Once inside, they locked all your files with their own locks and demanded money (ransom) to provide the keys to unlock them.
• Brand Impacted: QNAP
• Impact: Many QNAP NAS users found their files encrypted, leading to operational downtime and data accessibility issues. The attack impacted thousands of users worldwide, with ransom demands typically around $600 to $1,000 in Bitcoin. The financial burden on users and businesses was significant, as many had to pay the ransom or face permanent data loss. The attack highlighted the need for better password practices and timely software updates.
• Resolution: QNAP released firmware updates, advised on using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and updating systems.
• Link: QNAP Security Advisory

6. Synology NAS Devices and Bitcoin Miner Malware

• Vulnerability: Exploited outdated DSM software.
• CVE: CVE-2013-6955
• Vulnerability Explained: The vulnerability in Synology’s DSM software (CVE-2013-6955) allowed attackers to gain unauthorized access to the NAS devices. This specific flaw was related to inadequate input validation, which let attackers run arbitrary commands on the device. The attackers exploited this to install cryptocurrency mining software, which used the device’s resources to mine Bitcoin. This kind of malware doesn’t steal data but hijacks the system’s processing power, leading to reduced performance and potential hardware damage due to overheating.
• Exploitation: Attackers installed cryptocurrency mining malware on devices, utilizing system resources for Bitcoin mining.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Think of your NAS as a computer that runs software to manage files. The attackers found an old software bug (CVE-2013-6955) that let them sneak in and install a program that forces your NAS to work extra hard, like making a computer solve complex puzzles to create digital coins called Bitcoins. This process uses a lot of the NAS’s processing power, making it slow and possibly causing it to overheat, similar to how a computer might slow down and get hot if it’s running too many programs at once.
• Brand Impacted: Synology
• Impact: Reduced performance, potential overheating, and increased electricity costs for users. The attack affected thousands of Synology devices globally. Users reported significant drops in performance, and some devices even experienced hardware failures due to the increased load and heat. The financial impact included increased electricity bills and costs associated with hardware repair or replacement.
• Resolution: Synology released updates to patch vulnerabilities, remove malware, and advised on regular updates and security monitoring.
• Link: Synology Official Post and eTeknix Article

7. WD My Cloud Security Incident (2023)

• Vulnerability: Unauthorized access to Western Digital in-house servers.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: The security incident involved an unauthorized infiltration of Western Digital’s in-house servers, which managed WD My Cloud devices. Attackers exploited a vulnerability within the server infrastructure, leading to a breach that compromised sensitive data and potentially manipulated device functions. This vulnerability was linked to insufficient security protocols and inadequate monitoring, allowing attackers to access and control server operations without authorization.
• Exploitation: Attackers infiltrated Western Digital’s servers, compromising sensitive data and potentially affecting the functionality and security of WD My Cloud devices.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine the WD My Cloud as a secure vault where you keep your important files. The attackers found a way to break into the main control system of this vault (Western Digital’s servers). Once inside, they could access sensitive information and possibly control how the vault operated. This is like thieves breaking into the control room of a bank vault, gaining access to all the safes and the ability to manipulate the vault’s systems.
• Brand Impacted: Western Digital
• Impact: Compromised security, potential data breaches, and loss of user trust. The attack affected numerous WD My Cloud users globally, exposing sensitive information and causing significant inconvenience due to the disabled cloud services. Users faced operational disruptions, especially those who depended solely on remote access. The incident underscored the importance of comprehensive server security measures and the necessity for users to configure local access options as a contingency plan.
• Resolution: Western Digital implemented robust security enhancements, released patches to address the vulnerabilities, and restored cloud services once the environment was secured. They also advised users on best practices for securing their devices and data, including enabling local/LAN access to ensure uninterrupted access in case of future incidents.
• Link: Western Digital Advisory and Public Disclosure on Business Wire

(Click HERE or Below to Learn More about the WD Cyber Incident)

8. Buffalo NAS Devices and Persistent XSS Vulnerabilities (2017)

• Vulnerability: Multiple persistent XSS vulnerabilities in the web interface.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities occur when an application allows users to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by others. In Buffalo NAS devices, these persistent XSS vulnerabilities allowed attackers to inject scripts into the web interface that would execute whenever an authorized user accessed the page. This could lead to unauthorized actions performed on behalf of the user, theft of session cookies, and other malicious activities. The flaws were due to inadequate input validation and sanitization in the web application.
• Exploitation: Attackers injected malicious scripts into the web interface, potentially gaining access to sensitive information.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Think of your NAS’s web interface as a control panel you access through a browser. The attackers found a way to insert malicious code (scripts) into this control panel, which would run when you or others accessed the panel. This is like someone sneaking into a control room and installing hidden cameras to watch and capture sensitive information whenever you use the controls, potentially stealing passwords, personal data, or other sensitive information.
• Brand Impacted: Buffalo
• Impact: Risk of data theft and unauthorized access, compromising device security. The vulnerabilities affected many users globally, although exact numbers were not disclosed. The primary risk was the theft of sensitive information, which could be used for further attacks or identity theft. The incident highlighted the need for better web application security in NAS devices.
• Resolution: Buffalo released firmware updates to address XSS vulnerabilities and advised users to update firmware regularly.
• Link: Buffalo Security Advisory and CVE listings

9. Netgear ReadyNAS Devices and Remote Code Execution Vulnerability (2016)

• Vulnerability: Critical remote code execution vulnerability in ReadyNAS devices.
• CVE: CVE-2016-1524
• Vulnerability Explained: Remote code execution vulnerabilities like CVE-2016-1524 allow attackers to run arbitrary code on a device from a remote location. This specific vulnerability was due to inadequate input validation and poor access control in the ReadyNAS firmware. Attackers could exploit this flaw to send specially crafted requests that would execute commands on the device without proper authorization. This level of access could be used to steal data, modify configurations, or install malware.
• Exploitation: Attackers executed arbitrary code on affected ReadyNAS devices, leading to potential data theft and system compromise.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Imagine your NAS as a secure storage unit. The attackers found a flaw (CVE-2016-1524) that allowed them to send commands to the NAS from a remote location, as if they had a remote control that could do anything. This meant they could make the NAS perform any actions they wanted, such as stealing files, changing settings, or installing harmful programs, without needing physical access to the device.
• Brand Impacted: Netgear
• Impact: Compromised security, potential data breaches, and unauthorized control over devices. The vulnerability affected a significant number of Netgear ReadyNAS devices globally. The potential for data theft and system compromise was high, leading to a considerable security risk for users.
• Resolution: Netgear released firmware updates and guidelines on securing ReadyNAS devices.
• Link: Netgear Security Advisory

10. Drobo NAS Devices and Vulnerabilities in Web Interface (2015)

• Vulnerability: Weak authentication mechanisms and potential command injection flaws in the web interface.
• CVE: Not specified.
• Vulnerability Explained: The vulnerabilities in Drobo NAS devices’ web interface included weak authentication mechanisms and command injection flaws. Weak authentication mechanisms made it easier for attackers to bypass login protections, gaining unauthorized access. Command injection flaws allowed attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the device by injecting malicious input into web forms or URLs. These vulnerabilities were due to poor input validation and inadequate security controls in the web application.
• Exploitation: Attackers exploited these vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access and execute malicious commands.
• User-Friendly Explanation: Think of your NAS’s web interface as the login screen to access your secure storage. The attackers discovered flaws in the authentication process, making it easier for them to bypass security checks (weak authentication mechanisms). Additionally, they found ways to send harmful commands through the interface (command injection flaws), similar to tricking the system into executing their instructions. This allowed them to gain control over the NAS and perform malicious activities, such as stealing data or damaging the system.
• Brand Impacted: Drobo
• Impact: Risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and system compromise. The vulnerabilities affected many Drobo NAS users, putting their data at risk. The incident underscored the importance of robust web application security and strong authentication mechanisms.
• Resolution: Drobo released firmware updates to address vulnerabilities and advised on best practices for securing devices.
• Link: An article on 15 Different Drobo Vulnerabilities

What Have All of these NAS Security Incidents Have in Common?

All these NAS security incidents share several common elements. Firstly, they all involve exploiting vulnerabilities in firmware or software that was either outdated or had inherent flaws. Attackers took advantage of these weaknesses to gain unauthorized access, highlighting the critical importance of keeping firmware and software up to date. Many NAS devices were targeted because their users had not applied the latest security patches, leaving them vulnerable to known exploits. Secondly, weak or compromised authentication mechanisms were a recurring theme. Many attacks succeeded because of weak passwords, brute-force attacks, or poor authentication practices. This underscores the need for strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA) to provide an additional layer of security. Brute-force attacks and weak password policies allowed attackers to easily gain access to NAS devices, facilitating the deployment of ransomware, malware, or unauthorized command execution.

Lastly, the impact of these incidents was significantly exacerbated by the interconnected nature of NAS devices. Many users had their NAS devices directly connected to the internet without adequate security measures, making them easy targets for remote attacks. This highlights the importance of securing network access and employing best practices for internet-connected devices. Implementing proper firewall settings, VPNs, and avoiding unnecessary exposure to the internet can greatly reduce the risk of such attacks.

Conclusion – Lock it DOWN!

To protect your NAS from these types of attacks, it is essential to implement a robust security setup. Start by ensuring that your NAS firmware and all installed applications are always up to date. Regularly check for updates from the manufacturer and apply them as soon as they are available. These updates often include patches for known vulnerabilities that could otherwise be exploited by attackers. Strong authentication measures are also crucial. Use complex, unique passwords for your NAS device and any associated accounts. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible to add an extra layer of security. MFA requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access, making it much harder for attackers to compromise your device even if they manage to obtain your password. Securing network access is another key aspect. Avoid exposing your NAS directly to the internet. If remote access is necessary, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to create a secure connection to your NAS. Configure your firewall to block unauthorized access and only allow trusted IP addresses if possible. Disabling unnecessary services and ports can also minimize potential entry points for attackers. Regularly review and update these settings to adapt to new security threats. By following these recommendations and staying vigilant about security practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of your NAS device being compromised. Regular monitoring, prompt application of updates, and robust authentication and network security measures are essential to safeguarding your data and maintaining the integrity of your NAS system.

How to Automatically Get Updated When Synology and QNAP NAS Vulnerabilities are Reported

Pretty much ALL of the brands in NAS, Data Storage and Cloud services have these security advisory pages, but the idea of checking these pages manually (i.e. bookmark etc) every day, week or month is too much of a hassle for many. On the other hand, they all arrive with an RSS feed link that allows users to subscribe to updates BUT many users are not even aware of how to apply an RSS feed (it’s a complex XML feed of text that needs to be injected into an appropriate RSS feed client/agent – so yeah, hardly noob friendly). So, in order to make this 1000x easier, I have (and by me, I mean Eddie the Web Guy spent time on it and I made this article!) made this page that will be constantly updated with the latest vulnerabilities reported on the popular NAS brands and storage-related manufacturers. It is still being built (so more brands are being added) but it will allow you to just chuck your email address below (will not be used for profit or spamming etc) and then you will get an alter EVERY TIME a new security vulnerability is updated by the brands (this is automated, so it will appear here as soon as it appears on the respective security advisory page). Additionally, there will be links back to the brand/manufacturer site so you can find out more about individual exploits and vulnerabilities, how they work, what they do and (most importantly) give you a better idea of whether you should update your NAS/Storage system or not.

Click Below to Visit the FULL Article

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New F8 8-Bay M.2 NVMe SSD SSD from Terramaster Coming later in 2024

I’ve recently gathered some intriguing information about the upcoming Terramaster F8 SSD and F8 SSD PLUS Desktop NAS devices. These devices are slated to launch in September 2024, though this date is still tentative. Pricing details have not been officially confirmed, but temporary Amazon pages suggest that the F8 SSD will be priced at $999, while the F8 SSD PLUS will be $1299. Both devices are set to feature eight M.2 NVMe SSD bays, and they will come in a new, much smaller casing compared to other devices in Terramaster’s portfolio. This new form factor could make them a more appealing choice for those with limited space but requiring high-performance storage solutions.

NOTE – Regarding the Terramaster NAS and SSD Giveaway

(Take from the Terramaster Competition page). HERE

1. Share your thoughts on the ideal NAS or dream storage. You can describe your ideas through written descriptions, design sketches, video introductions, or comments. Explain the features, design, user experience, security, and intelligence level that you believe an ideal NAS should have. Additionally, guess what type of NAS is shown in the image below and share your reasoning.

2. Post your thoughts and guesses on TerraMaster’s official social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube), or share them on your own social media along with the event images. Invite your friends to like, comment, and share. Your feedback, ideas, and creativity, along with the exposure and engagement generated for this campaign, will serve as important considerations for prize selection.

The Prizes:

• Special prize for one winner: TerraMaster F4-424 (worth $499)
• Participation prize for 10 winners: 250GB WD RED NVMe SSD at ($69)

One of the standout features of these new NAS devices is the potential inclusion of 10GbE networking capabilities. However, it’s not clear if both models will feature this. The inclusion of 10GbE would significantly enhance data transfer speeds, making these NAS devices suitable for more demanding applications such as video editing and large-scale data backups. The F8 SSD and F8 SSD PLUS are mentioned to have 16GB of DDR5 memory, but it is not confirmed what each device will actually ship with or whether they will have one or two SODIMM slots. This memory detail leaves room for speculation on how these devices might cater to different market needs, potentially offering upgrade options for users who require more memory for intensive tasks.

The CPU choice for these devices is particularly interesting. It is suspected that the F8 models will utilize the Intel N305 8 Core i3 Alder Lake processor. This CPU, part of Intel’s N-series, is a mobile segment processor with 8 cores and 8 threads, boasting a max turbo frequency of 3.80 GHz. Given its capabilities, this processor could make the F8 SSD and F8 SSD PLUS quite powerful for their intended use cases, especially for those needing high-speed storage and efficient processing power. The N305’s support for DDR5 memory and integrated Intel UHD graphics further enhances its suitability for a NAS device, ensuring it can handle both storage and light processing tasks effectively.

Speculating on the differences between the F8 SSD and the F8 SSD PLUS, it’s possible that the non-PLUS version might have a less powerful CPU or different networking capabilities. For instance, while the F8 SSD PLUS might feature the N305 CPU and 10GbE networking, the regular F8 SSD could potentially have a lower-end CPU, such as the N100 or N95, and perhaps only 2.5GbE networking options. These differences would help cater to different user needs and price points, making the lineup more versatile. This tiered approach allows Terramaster to offer solutions that appeal both to budget-conscious consumers and those looking for top-tier performance.

The memory configuration is another area where we might see differences between the two models. The F8 SSD PLUS, with its higher price point, could offer more advanced memory options, such as higher base memory or additional SODIMM slots for easier upgrades. This would make the PLUS model more attractive to users who plan to use their NAS for more memory-intensive applications, such as running virtual machines or high-definition video streaming. On the other hand, the regular F8 SSD might stick to a single SODIMM slot or offer less base memory to keep costs down. In 2024, the affordability of 10GbE NAS devices has significantly improved, making it much easier for consumers to access high-speed networking solutions. A prime example is the MW-N100-NAS motherboard, an ITX form factor motherboard that includes both a CPU and networking capabilities for just around $120. This motherboard features the N100 CPU, which offers a solid balance of performance and efficiency, and it also supports 10GbE networking right out of the box. The affordability and integration of these features into a single, compact motherboard highlight the broader trend of decreasing costs and increasing accessibility of high-speed networking technology. Furthermore, it is anticipated that a version of this motherboard will eventually incorporate the N305 CPU, enhancing its performance capabilities while maintaining its cost-effectiveness. This progression not only reflects advancements in technology but also underscores the growing demand for affordable, high-speed NAS solutions in both consumer and small business markets. The availability of such cost-effective hardware solutions makes it feasible for more users to upgrade their network infrastructure, ensuring faster data transfer speeds and improved overall efficiency in data management tasks.

Find out more about the Topton MW-N100-NAS Mobo HERE

Comparing these new models to the existing Terramaster F4-424 and F4-424 Pro provides some context. The F4-424 features a 4-core N95 CPU, while the F4-424 Pro uses the same N305 i3 CPU suspected for the F8 models and comes with more memory. This suggests that the new F8 devices could follow a similar pattern, with the PLUS model offering enhanced performance and features over the standard model. The memory and CPU differences between the F4-424 and F4-424 Pro might hint at similar distinctions in the F8 lineup. The F4-424 and F4-424 Pro have set a precedent for how Terramaster differentiates between base and premium models, likely reflecting a strategy they will continue with the F8 series.

In terms of storage, both F8 SSD models are expected to have eight NVMe SSD bays, optimized for high-speed performance. This is a significant upgrade from the F4-424 series, which might appeal to users who need even more robust and faster storage solutions. The NVMe SSDs will provide much faster read and write speeds compared to traditional SATA SSDs, making these new NAS devices particularly suitable for environments where speed is critical. Additionally, the new, smaller casing for the F8 series could make these devices more suitable for home or small office environments where space is at a premium. The compact design does not seem to compromise on performance, promising a high-power solution in a small form factor. Al that said, we also have to realistically expect the M.2 NVMe SSD bays to be PCIe Gen 3×1 speed each. Not only because of system temperatures in such a confined space, but also because there are only 9 lanes to play with on the N305.

The increasing affordability of 10GbE technology also plays into the potential appeal of the F8 series. With the recently released MW-N100-NAS motherboard on AliExpress, which includes a 10GbE port and support for the N305 CPU, it’s becoming more feasible to include high-speed networking in consumer NAS devices. This trend suggests that Terramaster’s new devices will be well-positioned in the market, offering advanced features at a competitive price. As 10GbE becomes more common, users will expect to see it in mid-range and high-end NAS devices, making it a crucial feature for Terramaster to include in their new models.

Lastly, there’s an interesting giveaway related to these new Terramaster devices. Terramaster will be giving away an F4-424 NAS and 10x M.2 NVMe SSDs in a soon to be announced giveaway related to a user survey regarding what users ‘WANT’ in their NAS systems. The giveaway invites participants to share their ideas on what their ideal NAS would feature in terms of hardware and software. Details on this giveaway are still to be confirmed, but it presents a great opportunity for users to engage with the brand and potentially win some high-performance hardware. Overall, while there are still many details to be confirmed, the Terramaster F8 SSD and F8 SSD PLUS seem poised to offer significant improvements in performance and features, potentially setting a new standard in the NAS market. As we await further official information, the speculation based on available details suggests that these devices will be a significant step forward in terms of speed, capacity, and overall functionality. This table summarizes the potential differences between the F8 SSD and F8 SSD PLUS, providing a clearer picture of how these models might differentiate themselves in terms of hardware and capabilities.

Estimated Hardware Specifications Table (MASSIVELY ‘TBC’)

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

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If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  

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What NAS is the Cheapest to Run 24×7?

Have you SEEN how much electricity costs these days? Because of any one of about a hundred different global factors (local conflict, slow renewable energy uptake, monopolizing energy companies with powerful lobbying – take your pick!) most of us in 2024 have seen increases in energy costs. In this energy-aware climate, it can be appreciated that a NAS drive (a 24×7 appliance) seemingly has its cost to the end user in terms of electricity as something of a vague number. With so many kinds of NAS available in the market, featuring a mix of CPUs, PSUs, Bays and utilities, PLUS the wide range of HDD/SSD drives in the market to choose from – there are just so many variables when trying to work out how much power your NAS drive is using and how much that is translating to in your monthly energy bill! So, to resolve this concern, we have created this chart below that details the power consumption of several popular Synology and QNAP NAS systems in the market right now, defined by their reported power consumption (supplied on their official pages) and worked out how that translates into $, £ and Euros! But before we start, what is the difference between ACTIVE power use and IDLE power use? It’s pretty important when it comes to a device that will be on days, weeks, months and even YEARS at a time.

Can NAS Manufacturers be trusted to provide accurate power consumption numbers?

Popular NAS brands such as Synology, QNAP, Asustor and Terramaster are all obligated to provide a certain degree of information/specifications to end users when selling their wares globally. The extent of this information can vary, with some brands only giving you the CPU, Memory and PSU/Power brick wattage, whereas more reputable brands give you details breakdowns of the reported/average power usage of the device when in active, standby and/or idle use. Now, the question is, how much can you trust/rely on these figures? Surely it is in the interest of the brand to keep this number as LOW as possible to entice the end user? Well. I will say you can definitely, 100% TRUST the figures that the NAS brands report on their devices in use, HOWEVER, you need to always scroll down to the bottom of the page and check the DRIVES and RAID that were used in the testing. It is not uncommon for a NAS brand to use specific low-powered SSDs, or a RAID 0 as opposed to RAID 5 (which requires less system operation to maintain). These are not terrible guidelines, as there ARE users that use these setups, but it would be better if there was a form of universal standard in place (e.g separate 4TB / 8TB / 16TB / 22TB tests).

Note – Alongside these results based on officially provided energy consumption, I have been making videos and articles on SPECIFIC power usage tests, covering Active/Idle usage. These tests are going to take place throughout the next 12+ months and will cover around 30 NAS’ and 18 drive variations (capacity, performance, brands, SSD vs HDD, etc). You can read the MASSIVE article that is being regularly updated with fresh test results HERE. You watch the playlist so far HERE on YouTube.

What is the Difference Between a NAS Drive ‘Active’ and in ‘IDLE / Standby’?

Although a NAS is designed to be in operation 24×7 and is consuming electricity when running, the actual reality of this and the extent to which it is consuming it is actually alot more nuanced. Most home users who have a NAS system will use the NAS directly for a significant;y smaller portion of time per day than it is actually powered on for. Perhaps to stream a movie or a couple of TV episodes, run a daily backup, have a couple of cameras in/outside their home that are sending recordings (or more likely just alerts and associated captures) to the NAS and that is about it. They will periodically do more than these, maybe a VM, more sophisticated backup or use some of the other services ad hoc, but the result is that in most domestic/bog standard home scenarios, a NAS will be switched internally to Idle/Standby after no pro-active use quite quickly and spend 80-90% of the time in low power modes. Business users might well be using the system 24×7 for sync’d tasks and on-going camera recording, but even then, this will be a lower %  of system resources in use. So, in order to find a comparable and relative means to study the electricity use of a NAS and it’s cost, I have conducted two tests per NAS+HDD configuration. The first, a 24 Hour Active test, with the system using a decent % of it’s CPU+Memory, a swell as the HDDs not being given the chance to switch to Idle/Standy (by constantly writing AND performing S.M.A.R.T tests hourly). The idle tests involve all of those apps, services and scheduled operations being cancelled and the network cable being disconnected from the NAS (for another 24hrs). From here we can work out the cost of an hour of power usage by either setup in high activity and near-zero activity. But how can we work out the COST of the electricity used by the NAS in that time period?

All Synology and QNAP NAS Drives, Listed in Power Use and Cost (Best to Worst)

Below are the NAS we have added so far to our energy calculator. You can add your own electricity price/tariff/rate in the box at the top if you want to narrow things down a little and/get a better understanding how the reported power usage by each NAS device will work out for you in costs per day, month and year. We will be adding more NAS brands and devices as time goes on.