Synology DiskStation DS124 1 Bay Desktop NAS

I was looking for a network file backup solution and this works perfectly out the box. I didn't need two bays or RAID so this unit is ideal. Very easy to set up, low power consumption and easy to access files remotely.

Bought to replace an old/struggling WD NAS, primarily for use as a Plex server/film library storage. There were a lot of horror stories about drive compatability issues, but I put an 8TB WD Red hard drive in it without any issue and it's been fine. I've also run an additional 4TB drive into it via USB, which runs without issue.Set up was pretty straightforward, the unit is fast enough to handle audio conversion on the fly (the old NAS couldn't). I'd echo comments elsewhere that the Synology/WD combo is a little noisier than other NAS units, but to be honest it's not in the same room as the TV. It's nice and compact, so disappears once you find a home for it.All in all, very happy with it.

I chose a Seagate Ironwolf 2TB HDD, which was easy to install. Apparently you need to buy an adapter to fit 2.5" drives, but I'd choose a good quality 3.5" drive. Then again, full disclosure, I used to work for Seagate ;-) Connect to your LAN, plug it in, use the find utility to open the web client and follow the prompts. Takes about 10 minutes and you're up and running. As usual nowadays, the printed instructions supplied are minimal, so for more advanced features, search the web. There is a wide range of functions, including a backup utility, available to download and install on the device. I haven't run any tests, but I would describe the performance as good, subjectively. Good value compared with other products intended for home use.

The DS124 is fast for browsing photos and the web UI is responsive. It's easy to set up, with a guided step-by-step process. It also has a low power consumption, which can be the real cost of owning a NAS if it's on all the time.I'm using it with a 4TB Samsung EVO 860 SSD (2.5 inch SATA III) - ignore the "supported drives" list as the cheapest equivalent on the list is 4 times the price. Note that you're meant to buy a special bit of plastic to hold the smaller 2.5 inch drive in place, but I found it stays in place without it. (Bad of them not to include said bit of plastic).Loses 1 star because this model does not support volume encryption. It is possible to encrypt individual shared folders. You can store the folder decryption key in the key manager on the device (presumably saved on the hard drive and protected in some way) and have the folder automount on bootup, or you can keep the keys separately and enter them each time you want to access the shared folder.

Brilliant, does exactly what it says on the tin. Easy to deploy and configure.

I bought a DS124 and a 1TB Ironwolf drive specifically to use as a media sever. I had considered a Mini PC but decided this would be more reliable left switched on 24/7.The setup was fairly straightforward, although very little in the way of instructions, so if you have never used a NAS before be prepared to watch some youtube videos.Although all the popular media server apps are supported and downloadable from Synology (free) I kept it simple and installed the Synology Media Server app which is a basic DLNA server. It works perfectly and I am very pleased.You can of course use it for backups, file sharing etc. and even access it when away from home which is a real bonus.

Needed a NAS for photo and phone backup so don’t have to keep paying for monthly subscriptions and family can use as well. This is a great alternative and is small size and easy to set up

Doing well so far. Bought this 3 months ago and it's been working well. Very easy to get up and running and seems fast and reliable. Also like that it makes itself easy to find remotely yet feels secure enough not to get hacked.