How to Use Synology Drive in the Homelab: Part 1

Managing and securing your data is a critical part of any homelab setup. Synology Drive is a versatile tool that turns your Synology NAS (Network-Attached Storage) into a private cloud solution, offering file synchronization, remote access, and collaboration tools. This comprehensive three-part guide explores how to use Synology Drive in the homelab to maximize its potential for secure, reliable, and efficient data management.

• Part 1: Overview of Synology Drive and Synology Drive Server Installation
• Part 2: Configure Synology Drive Server
• Part 3: Configure Synology Drive Client

What is Synology Drive and Why Use it in a Homelab?

Overview of Synology Drive

Synology Drive is a self-hosted cloud storage solution provided by Synology. It offers a robust set of features that rival popular services like Google Drive and Dropbox, including:

• File synchronization across multiple devices.
• Remote access from anywhere.
• Version control, ensuring past file versions are accessible.
• Seamless integration with other Synology apps.

Unlike third-party cloud providers, Synology Drive keeps your data in your control, stored securely on your NAS device.

Why is Synology Drive Ideal for Homelabs?

• Self-Hosting: No need to rely on external services, reducing subscription fees and enhancing privacy.
• Security: Data is encrypted and stored locally, offering greater protection against breaches.
• Speed: Files transfer faster over a local network compared to cloud-based solutions.
• Scalability: Expandable storage and customization options make it perfect for homelabs of any size.

What is my current use case for Synology Drive?

Setting Up Synology Drive on Your NAS

Synology Drive Server and Synology Drive Client are the two main components of Synology Drive, each serving a distinct role:

• Synology Drive Server: This is the core component installed on your Synology NAS. It allows you to manage, store, and share files across your network. It handles features like file synchronization, version control, and access management.
• Synology Drive Client: This is the software you install on your devices (Windows, macOS, Linux, or mobile) to connect to the Synology Drive Server. It enables file synchronization between your NAS and devices.

Hardware & Software Requirements

Before proceeding with the setup, it is essential to ensure that your Synology NAS meets these minimum requirements:

• Synology NAS models: Check compatibility here.
• DSM version: Ensure your device runs DSM 7.0 or later.
• RAM and storage: Recommended at least 2 GB of RAM and sufficient drive capacity.

Technically, you could still run DSM 6.2.3; however, since it has already been announced as end-of-life (EOL), I strongly discourage using outdated and unsupported software.

Install Synology Drive Server

Installing Synology Drive Server is as easy as all other Synology packages. Open the Package Center, type “Drive” in the search bar and install it.

Additionally, Package Center will automatically install all necessary dependencies required for running Synology Drive Server.

The installation takes some minutes depending on the Synology NAS system on which you install it. After a successful installation you should see something similar to this.

As a result, you will now see three new icons in the Synology DSM start menu.

• Synology Drive: This is the main file management and access web interface for users. It allows individuals to browse, upload, download, and manage files stored on the Synology NAS, similar to cloud storage platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox.
• Synology Drive ShareSync: This feature synchronizes files across multiple Synology NAS devices.
• Synology Drive Admin Console: This is the management dashboard for administrators. It provides tools to configure version control settings, team folders, and security policies, allowing complete control over Synology Drive’s operation.

Conclusion

With Synology Drive Server installed, your NAS is now set up as a private cloud solution for secure file management and sharing. In part 2 of this guide we will configure Synology Drive Server for file synchronization and backups to give you full control over your data.