Synology DiskStation DS1520+ NAS Server Review

The Synology DiskStation DS1520+ NAS Server for Business provides a robust, scalable solution for all your server needs. With a powerful Celeron J4125 Quad-Core 2.0GHz CPU, 8GB DDR4 memory, and a significant 5TB of ultra-fast SSD storage, it’s designed to handle various server roles such as backup, file storage, and email servers seamlessly. This NAS server features Link Aggregation, failover support, and multiple ports for enhanced connectivity, ensuring reliability and speed. With advanced security features and multifunction capabilities, including Virtual Machine Manager, AES 256-bit encryption, and 4K multimedia support, the DS1520+ is tailored for businesses demanding efficiency and ease of use. Installation is required as the hard drives and memory upgrades come separately. Ever wondered if there’s a reliable NAS server you can count on for your business needs? Well, let’s dive into the Synology DiskStation DS1520+ NAS Server. This gem is packed with features that promise to enhance your business operations. Whether you need to back up files, run an email server, or manage a domain, this device has got you covered. So, let’s take a closer look!

Overview of Synology DiskStation DS1520+

The Synology DiskStation DS1520+ is your all-in-one solution for a diverse range of server roles. Armed with a Celeron J4125 Quad-Core 2.0GHz processor, it offers robust performance. Combined with 8GB DDR4 memory and 5TB SSD storage, it ensures ultra-fast data access and operation, capturing the essence of efficiency and reliability.

Key Hardware Specifications

CPU and Memory

The DS1520+ comes equipped with a Celeron J4125 Quad-Core 2.0GHz processor and 8GB DDR4 memory. This combination is designed to handle multiple tasks simultaneously without any lag. You’ll find it operates smoothly whether you’re managing files, running virtual machines, or operating backup tasks.

Storage

Storage is a critical aspect of any NAS, and the DS1520+ excels here with its 5TB of SSD storage. With 5 SATA III 1TB SSDs, you can store vast amounts of data while ensuring rapid access and retrieval.

Network Connectivity

Featuring 4 RJ-45 1GbE LAN ports with link aggregation and failover support, this NAS system ensures stable and fast network connectivity. The addition of 2 USB 3.2 ports and 2 eSATA ports further enhances connectivity options, making it flexible for various business environments.

M.2 SSD Slots for Cache Acceleration

Two available M.2 SSD slots for cache acceleration bring an extra speed boost to operations. It’s a nifty feature, especially when handling tasks that require swift data processing.

Table of Main Specifications

Features and Capabilities

DSM Operating System

The DS1520+ runs on Synology’s intuitive and powerful DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system. DSM offers a user-friendly interface with a wealth of apps to tailor to your business needs.

Virtual Machine Manager

If you need to run multiple operating systems or manage virtual environments, the Virtual Machine Manager will be your best friend. It allows you to set up and run virtual machines with ease, simplifying complex tasks and maximizing your hardware’s utility.

Security Advisor and AES 256-bit Encryption

Security is a top priority for any business. The DS1520+ offers robust security features including Security Advisor, which scans your system for vulnerabilities, and AES 256-bit encryption to keep your data safe from unauthorized access.

Surveillance Station Suite

For businesses that require surveillance, the Surveillance Station Suite is an invaluable tool. It provides comprehensive solutions for managing security cameras and monitoring your premises.

Desktop Backup and Hyper Backup

Regular backups are essential for data integrity. With Desktop Backup and Hyper Backup features, you can ensure your data is always secure and readily available. This means you can sleep easy knowing your important files and documents are backed up regularly.

Snapshot Replication

Snapshot Replication offers point-in-time copies of your data, allowing for quick recovery in the event of data loss. This feature is especially useful for maintaining business continuity during unexpected disruptions.

Synology Drive

Synology Drive transforms your DiskStation into a powerful file management and sharing solution. It integrates file synchronization, file browsing, online editing, and file versioning, all under a unified portal.

4K Multimedia Server

Leverage the DS1520+ as a 4K multimedia server to stream high-definition content. Whether for business presentations or media storage, it can handle high-quality video content effortlessly.

Installation and Setup

Unboxing and Initial Setup

Your Synology NAS will arrive in a sealed box, though note that hard drives and memory upgrades are included separately and will require installation. The setup is straightforward, even if you’re not tech-savvy, thanks to Synology DSM’s user-friendly setup wizard.

Installing Hard Drives and Memory

Insert the hard drives into the slots and the memory into the available DIMM slots. After physically installing these components, you can power on the NAS and proceed with the initial software setup using the DSM wizard.

Performance

Speed and Efficiency

Thanks to its Celeron J4125 processor, 8GB DDR4 memory, and SSD storage, the DS1520+ delivers speedy performance. Tasks like file transfers, backups, and virtual machine operations are executed with impressive efficiency.

Network Performance

With its four 1GbE LAN ports supporting link aggregation and failover, network performance is optimized for minimal downtime and faster data transfer rates. Whether it’s a single large file or multiple smaller ones, the connection remains stable and fast.

Cache Acceleration

The M.2 SSD slots for cache acceleration significantly enhance the speed of read/write operations. This is particularly beneficial for those working with large datasets or running multiple applications concurrently.

Support and Community

Technical Support

Synology offers comprehensive technical support to help you manage and troubleshoot any issues. The support team is easily accessible, knowledgeable, and responsive, ensuring that you’re never left in the lurch.

Active Community

Beyond official support, an active community of Synology users is available to share tips, tricks, and solutions. The Synology forums are a great place to seek advice or learn from others’ experiences.

Pros and Cons

Pros

1. Versatile and Powerful: Capable of handling various server roles, from backup to file storage, email servers, and domain controllers.
2. User-Friendly: DSM operating system is intuitive and easy to navigate.
3. High Performance: Quad-core CPU, 8GB DDR4 memory, and SSD storage ensure fast and efficient operations.
4. Secure: Strong security features including AES 256-bit encryption and Security Advisor.
5. Expandable: Two M.2 SSD slots for cache acceleration provide room for speed enhancements.

Cons

1. Initial Setup: Requires physical installation of hard drives and memory, which might be a bit daunting for non-technical users.
2. Limited by Network: While 1GbE LAN ports are standard, some might prefer the option of 10GbE for faster data transfer rates.

Final Thoughts

The Synology DiskStation DS1520+ NAS Server is an excellent choice for businesses seeking a reliable, versatile, and high-performing network-attached storage solution. Its features cater to a wide range of needs, from basic file storage to complex virtual machine management. With robust security measures and a user-friendly operating system, it offers a comprehensive package for enhancing your business operations. By investing in the DS1520+, you’re not just getting a NAS server; you’re investing in peace of mind and operational efficiency.

So, what are you waiting for? The Synology DiskStation DS1520+ is ready to take your business to the next level.

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