Synology DS220 vs. Synology NAS

Attribute	Synology DS220	Synology NAS
Model	DS220	Various models available
Processor	Realtek RTD1296 Quad-core 1.4 GHz	Various processors available
RAM	2 GB DDR4	Various RAM options available
Drive Bays	2	Depends on the model
Max Internal Capacity	32 TB (2 x 16 TB drives)	Depends on the model
RAID Support	RAID 0, RAID 1, JBOD	Depends on the model
Networking	1 x Gigabit Ethernet	Various networking options available
USB Ports	2 x USB 3.0	Depends on the model

Overview

Synology DS220 and Synology NAS are both network-attached storage devices designed to provide users with a centralized storage solution for their data. While the DS220 is a specific model within the Synology NAS lineup, it is important to understand the key attributes of both products to make an informed decision on which one best suits your needs.

Hardware

The Synology DS220 is a two-bay NAS device that comes equipped with a dual-core processor and 2GB of RAM. It offers a maximum storage capacity of up to 32TB when using 16TB drives in each bay. On the other hand, Synology NAS refers to a broader range of products that includes models with varying numbers of drive bays, processors, and memory configurations. Users can choose a NAS model that best fits their storage requirements and budget.

Software

Both the Synology DS220 and other Synology NAS devices run on the DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system. DSM is a user-friendly platform that offers a wide range of features and applications to enhance the functionality of the NAS. Users can install packages such as file sharing, multimedia streaming, backup solutions, and surveillance tools to customize their NAS according to their needs. The DSM software is regularly updated by Synology to ensure security and performance improvements.

Connectivity

The Synology DS220 and other Synology NAS devices come with multiple connectivity options to facilitate data access and sharing. They typically include Gigabit Ethernet ports for network connectivity, USB ports for external storage devices, and in some cases, eSATA ports for additional expansion. Additionally, Synology NAS devices often support features like link aggregation and network bonding to increase network bandwidth and reliability.

Data Protection

Both the Synology DS220 and other Synology NAS models offer a range of data protection features to safeguard your valuable information. These include RAID configurations for data redundancy and protection against drive failures, as well as backup solutions like Synology Hyper Backup and Snapshot Replication. Users can also set up scheduled backups to external drives or cloud storage services for an extra layer of protection.

Scalability

One of the key advantages of Synology NAS devices, including the DS220, is their scalability. Users can start with a two-bay NAS like the DS220 and expand their storage capacity by adding more drives or upgrading to a larger model with more drive bays. Synology NAS devices also support hot-swapping of drives, allowing users to replace or upgrade drives without powering down the system, ensuring minimal downtime.

Price

When it comes to pricing, the Synology DS220 is a mid-range NAS device that offers a good balance of performance and features at a competitive price point. Other Synology NAS models vary in price depending on factors such as the number of drive bays, processor speed, and memory capacity. Users should consider their budget and storage requirements when choosing between the DS220 and other Synology NAS devices.