With the progress of technology today, creating content has become easy and more convenient. However, it is still challenging to store and organise media files despite these advancements. Fortunately, we know of a solution for this concern, which we will discuss in our Synology DS423 Review.
Today, we are focusing on Synology DS423. It is a perfect option for content creators searching for a secure, cost-effective, scalable storage solution.
The product is a 4-bay NAS capable of storing up to 72TB of data. You will not have to bother with high recurring fees from subscriptions and bandwidth costs. These are common in public cloud services.
The DS423 has other features that make it a perfect storage solution for content creators. Plus, its software boasts excellent aspects that optimise and improves creation.
To learn more about the NAS, continue reading our Synology DS423 Review. Get all the information you need to see how perfect this storage solution is for creators. But before delving further into the product, let’s first examine its packaging and what it contains.
Synology DS423 Packaging
The DS423 arrived in a standard cardboard box that looks like the usual packaging used for other Synology NAS. You will see the company branding and a sticker with all the necessary product details on the box.
Inside, you will find the DS423 with additional items, including the following:
- AC power cord
- AC power adapter
- Two RJ-45 LAN cables
- Accessory pack
- Quick installation guide
Synology DS423 Review – Design and Functionality
As its name suggests, this NAS is a 4-bay server that is barebone with two USB 3.0 ports and two Gigabit network ports.
While writing our Synology DS423 Review, we also noticed its design resembled that of the DS410. Technically, it is the first server in a long time that does not have easy-access drive bays.
That means you will need to open the case to service the storage. Luckily, it only involves a few screws to deal with.
In contrast to pricier models, the DS423 aims to provide the best for content creators. It is perfect for those seeking a decent storage capacity without sacrificing performance.
Consequently, this particular NAS offers compatibility with a broader range of SSDs and HDDs.
The DS423 also uses the Realtek RTD1619B quad-core 1.7GHz CPU plus 2GB of DDR4 RAM. This NAS serves as an ideal option for content creators who do not require significant processing power. However, they still need enough capabilities to handle nearly all the packages the DiskStation Manager (DSM) provides.
Before we get into the product software and performance, our Synology DS423 Review will discuss its features. These elements make the DS423 a hit, especially among content creators.
Perfect for Content Creators
As a content creator, you need the perfect storage solution to keep and organise all your files. Fortunately, the DS423 offers speed, security, a simple design, plus outstanding backup for your creations. These elements allow you to get the job done without anything stopping you.
Get Boosted Performance and Superb Connectivity Perfect for 4K Video and RAW Files
Enhance the speed of editing extensive images and videos from your NAS by incorporating 10GbE or higher network capabilities. This feature proves invaluable when dealing with copious RAW files and video projects boasting 4K/higher resolutions.
With this addition, creators can unlock seamless collaboration without any interruptions. You can even expedite the transfer of projects and establish a reliable work drive for even the most demanding tasks.
When using your DS423 with 10GbE, you effectively address storage, backup, and bandwidth needs. Simultaneously, five editors can easily collaborate on editing 4K footage.
Storage Solutions Designed to Handle Technological Advancements
Synology will always have a solution, whether you start small or with hundreds of TB. Content creators can expand and select from one drive bay to 36 or more. With the DS423, you can take advantage of convenient expansion processes just by adding/upgrading your current drives.
Easy Data Access for Continuous and Seamless Creation
Sometimes, content creators want to combine their latest shots or recordings with something from way back. Before, you would need to search for your files through loose drives. Not anymore.
Fortunately, the DS423 has a robust file indexing feature to access data from a single central location in seconds. It also provides support for Windows, Mac, and Linux-based workstations. It will work regardless of the operating system.
A Solid Foundation for All Your Files
Generally, external drives are convenient portable solutions. However, these are also single points of failure, thus, can result in permanent data loss.
Instead of these, content creators can safeguard files by opting for the DS423. It offers optimised data protection to keep all data intact and available.
This backup solution lets you safeguard data while decreasing downtime via scheduled backups to external HDDs or offsite cloud services. This process will allow you to focus on your work peacefully.
You do not need to worry about data loss even if there are drive failures or ransomware attacks. The DS423 will keep everything safe.
Snapshot Replication for Block-level Data Security
With Snapshot Replication, you can create point-in-time replicas of shared folders and LUNs by leveraging current Btrfs file systems. These can be replicated to other NAS solutions and restored during data loss or accidental modifications to the original file.
For the creators out there, Snapshot Replication gives you a set of intelligent administration tools to make your work easier. An example is the test failover for verifying the effectiveness of failovers.
It lets you test failovers for replication activities to guarantee that recovery will work during disasters.
You will receive access privileges to recover file/folder-level snapshots with Windows File Explorer or File Station. The good thing is you will not need administrator assistance to acquire these.
Another plus for content creators is that the NAS lets you manage storage capacity and plan backup strategies. Do these with space consumption reports acquiring analysed shared folder snapshots.
With this, you can check any snapshots that are deleted/taken. You can also look into the replication dates and recovery attempts to pinpoint suspicious/accidental activities.
Perfect for Keeping Your Portfolio with You, 24/7
With the DS423, content creators can easily access data anywhere with the user-friendly and intuitive QuickConnect feature. Your data, your rules – control and manage who can access these files at any time. Everything is based on your preference.
User-friendly and Convenient IT
With this NAS solution from Synology, you will not have any problems backing up data and syncing to other offices. You can enjoy more data protection and service availability for the DS423. You can also sync between the studio and home, then extend WiFi coverage while boosting network security.
The tools provided by Synology for multi-site deployments sync data seamlessly. It allows your team to access anything they need, no matter where they are.
You can also keep and protect sensitive data by organising individual user/group access. Also, you can create modification rights via granular permission settings.
You can work on your content worry-free because you do not have to worry about sharing data with external parties. It is all thanks to identity verification, access passwords, expiration dates, and other advanced security options.
Cross-office File Sharing
With cross-office file sharing, you can keep your data in sync between two/multiple Synology systems. You can also allocate files one-wy to different branches via on-premises solutions. After creating content, you can stream and sync your files to devices to save disk space while conserving network bandwidth.
Access all Your Files the Way You Want
You and the team can share and access files anytime and anywhere. Grab your creations from Windows File Explorer, web browsers, Mac OS Finder, or via mobile apps.
Granular Permissions and Sharing
Effortlessly administer your file shares, whether distributing files among loved ones or catering to client needs. Take control over access rights, fortify your sharing with password protection, and set time limits.
Do all these to ensure seamless management and enhanced security.
Content Creator Collaboration Made Easier with DS423
It is best to focus on your creations and collaborations no matter where you are. With the DS423, you can conveniently have access to the current file versions with the help of background file sync.
Key Features of the Synology DS423
Secure Your Cloud Storage
You can effectively keep up to 72TB of data with full ownership. Simultaneously, you can take advantage of multi-platform access no matter where you are.
Store and Share Work Securely
For freelance creators, cross-site collaboration is something usual. The team could work on their tasks in different parts of the world. Hence, they would require access to the same collection of files.
Since this is the case, having the DS423 will be essential.
On-premises solutions offer complete data ownership; with public cloud solutions, you do not own your data. Data can also get leaked or stolen if your credentials are compromised.
So, Synology provides several security means like OTP, encryption, etc. With these, you can guarantee that your works are stored and shared securely.
Effortless Data Sharing
Streamline sharing files and media by utilising a secure private cloud. It enables seamless collaboration, boosting productivity within your organisation.
Adaptable Video Surveillance
Harness the power of user-friendly surveillance tools to safeguard your surroundings effectively. It can accommodate up to 30 IP cameras, store footage & access it as needed. The feature will also allow you to maintain a vigilant eye on your premises.
An Extra Layer of Protection- Backup Data and Files with the Synology DS423
External drives are good, but single points of failure result in permanent data loss. So while these are convenient, it is still essential to back up your files with a trusted storage solution. And the best place to keep all your work and important files is in the DS423.
Establishing a Centralised Data Hub
Consolidate scattered data from PCs, Macs, phones, and external storage devices by creating a dedicated private cloud hub. You can implement efficient and organised file management by importing and synchronising data.
Experience Seamless Access on Multiple Devices
Effortlessly and securely browse, access, edit, and share your files across various platforms. With that, you can enjoy the convenience of managing your documents with utmost ease.
Take advantage of intuitive admin tools. These empower you to track, customise, and control access to your data, documents and files while offline.
Optimise Storage with On-Demand Sync
Maximise the storage capacity of your devices by synchronising the necessary files from your NAS.
The intelligent on-demand sync feature allows you to select and synchronise specific files, ensuring you save valuable space. Moreover, by pinning frequently accessed files, you can enjoy seamless offline accessibility. Embrace efficiency and flexibility as you streamline your storage management.
Access Your Work Wherever You Are
Many creators constantly travel or work remotely, needing quick and convenient file access. Fortunately, the DS423 can work as a local file server that synchronises particular folders on all connected NAS. All you have to do is install the Synology Drive packages.
Additionally, Synology has an intuitive and user-friendly technology called QuickConnect, which provides NAS data access from anywhere. It does not require complex network knowledge, allowing you to view, modify, or manage your portfolio anytime and anywhere.
Cloud Integration
Effortlessly integrate your storage servers with popular public cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Microsoft OneDrive. This seamless synchronisation enables you to maintain local copies of your cloud data. It allows for centralised management, ensuring data ownership.
Enhanced Cross-Platform Sharing
Establish a private data cloud that facilitates file synchronisation and sharing among multiple storage servers. This innovative solution empowers everyone to conveniently access and collaborate on the same data, regardless of their preferred platforms.
Uncompromising Data Protection
With DS423 powered by Synology DiskStation Manager and employing the advanced Btrfs file system, your data has protection against corruption. Generate instantaneous snapshots, allowing you to revert unintended or malicious changes. This process will ensure the utmost data integrity and security.
Versatile Storage Solution for Essential Needs
The DS423 allows you to manage and organise your photos while securing digital data. Plus, it lets you keep your physical premises safe and protected.
Aside from organised files that are safe and secure, you can conveniently keep your clients updated. Synology Photos is an excellent photo management solution for creative professionals with many intuitive features.
Furthermore, Synology Photos allows collaborating with partners and clients remotely with Shared Spaces. In addition, it allows making your work accessible to colleagues and clients while securing these using passwords and expiry dates. Renowned media partnerships use the password-protection feature for secure and streamlined collaboration.
With smart filtering, you can quickly search for specific media since it categorises files based on metadata. Plus, you will not have to worry about accidental data loss since the Synology Photos mobile app provides automatic backup.
Instantly Back Up Memories and Files
Protect your media, like videos and photos, by instantly keeping remote copies onto Synology Photos or Drive. Whether sharing files with the family or hundreds of others, you can better manage your shares. Do these with access rights, time limits, and password protection.
Handle Cyber Attacks and Data Leaks
Synology Drive can keep your data safe from accidental deletion and ransomware attacks with real-time/scheduled backing up of folders. It is a handy feature for everyone, especially content creators, to save time and effort.
Intuitive Video Surveillance
Secure your home and business with an ideal solution to archive, monitor, and analyse footage centrally. The Synology Surveillance Station is a robust VMS (video management system) trusted by over 500,00 sites globally.
As a camera surveillance, it supports more than 8,300 validated IP cameras plus ONVIF compatibility. As a result, it allows you to choose devices based on local regulations and specific needs.
Compatible with a Broad Range of Cameras
The DS423 allows connecting up to 30 IP cameras for comprehensive surveillance. This NAS is more impressive because it works with more than 8,300 models and ONVIF devices.
The modern and user-friendly interface of the NAS makes installing and managing 30 cameras effortless and streamlined.
The comprehensive solution from Synology offers built-in functionalities that seamlessly enable encryption, backup, and archival of your valuable recordings. Additionally, you can leverage cloud recording through C2 Surveillance for added convenience and flexibility.
It does not matter if you are a content creator with few cameras. You could also be a large-scale deployment with thousands of devices. The highly-scalable nature of the Surveillance Station will cater to your specific needs.
Flexible Access Anytime, Anywhere
Stay connected and watch your premises round the clock by monitoring real-time video streams effortlessly. Whether you prefer web browsers, desktop clients, or mobile apps, Synology empowers you to access and safeguard your premises anywhere.
Stay vigilant by setting up customised alerts and triggers, ensuring you receive timely notifications of suspicious activities.
Comprehensive Data Backup Solutions
Harness the power of multi-layered backup solutions from Synology to secure all your valuable data stored on the DS423. Safeguard your information by seamlessly backing it up to a secondary server, an external storage device, or even the cloud.
With a robust backup strategy, you can rest assured that your data remains protected and readily recoverable. This feature gives you peace of mind since it keeps your files safe even if an accidental loss occurs.
Effortless Offsite Backups
Safeguard your Synology device effortlessly by creating backups of essential components such as system settings, applications, and shared folders. Benefit from optimised storage through data deduplication, and ensure the safety of your data by storing copies in multiple destinations.
Securing your data and synchronising it with another location should always be hassle-free. The solutions from Synology provide a seamless experience without compromising on versatility.
Enhance the availability of services and fortify the protection of your NAS device. Seamlessly sync data between your studio and home, enabling access to vital information from both locations.
Furthermore, optimise your WiFi coverage while reinforcing network security for enhanced peace of mind.
Near-instantaneous Security and Protection
Produce point-in-time snapshots of shared LUNs and folders for increased data protection. The Snapshot Replication allows recovery within seconds and an RPO as low as five minutes.
Before anything else, our Synology DS423 Review will give you a list of the DS423 specifications. These will help determine if the NAS is compatible with your system and setup.
Specifications
DS423 NAS Specifications
- CPU Model: Realtek RTD1619B
- CPU Architecture: 64-bit
- System Memory: 2 GB DDR4 non-ECC
- CPU Frequency: 4-core 1.7 GHz
- Drive Bays: 4
- Compatible drives: 3.5-inch SATA HDD and 2.5-inch SATA SSD
- RJ-45 1GbE LAN Ports: 2, with failover support and link aggregation
- USB 3.2 Gen 1 Ports: 2
- Size: 184 x 168 x 230mm (Height x Width x Depth)
- Weight: 2.21kg
- Warranty: 2 years for hardware, can be extended up to 4 years
System Fan Specifications
- System fans: 2
- Dimensions: 80 x 80mm
- Noise level: 20.6 dB(A)
Hands-on with the Synology DS423
We tested the NAS and used various software to share our experience in this Synology DS423 Review. Learning how well it performs will help determine if it is ideal for content creation.
The DS423 operates on DSM7, the most recent version of the Synology NAS operating system. We were impressed with its many apps and new features during our tests. Surprisingly, these improved significantly from the last time we tested a Synology NAS.
We downloaded several packages to see if this NAS can deliver the efficiency that content creators need.
Synology Drive
Sometimes, we need remote access to our files when writing product reviews. We downloaded the Synology Drive package to test whether we can access our files anywhere.
Synology Drive synchronised all our files, which allowed us to access everything we needed. It also allowed us to quickly share files via Mac OS Finder and Windows File Explorer.
When we edited some documents via Synology Office, we had no problems collaborating with colleagues. All the changes synced immediately, and everything was up-to-date.
The Hybrid Share of Synology Drive can boost cross-site data sharing while decreasing bandwidth consumption. It occurs through flexible storage without any workflow changes.
We could track who accessed our files thanks to the comprehensive admin tools. Here, we noticed that the claims of Synology about the DS423, its features, and its technologies are correct. All shared files were safe and protected, unlike data stored in public clouds that still have risks of breaching.
Monitor and observe up to 40 actions like permissions sharing, file/folder changes, and service activity. Detect suspicious activities by filtering via event type, IP address, user, and more.
With real-time and scheduled backups, this NAS prevented permanent data loss. To keep your files updated, we recommend setting real-time backups.
Intelliversioning Algorithm
Synology uses an Intelliversioning algorithm to reduce storage consumption. It only keeps versions of files with the most significant changes and allows restoring previous versions directly on your device.
Convenient File Conversion and Previewing
With Synology Office, using DS423 to share files becomes more convenient. It allows sharing Microsoft Word/Excel/Powerpoint and OpenDocument ODF/ODS file formats by converting to Synology Office versions. When altered, authorised people can access, view, and edit these.
Aside from that, it allows direct viewing of over 100 file formats like PDF, PSD, and ZIP via browser.
Synology Photos
When we used Synology Photos, we could easily access our files. All our data was synced and sorted in the correct folders automatically, and intelligent filters made searching more convenient. This feature improved our workflow and productivity, especially when we needed multiple media files.
With Shared Spaces, we safely share files with friends and colleagues worldwide. Other people could not access these since we locked the data with a password. Plus, the files were no longer accessible after the expiry date.
Another thing we liked about Synology Photos was its intuitive and responsive interface. In our tests, it allowed us to find photos faster. Its speed is excellent for content creators who often need to work on deadlines and rushed projects.
Aside from its responsiveness, Synology Photos also has a user-friendly design. It displays photos with a folder or timeline view. Plus, it uses effective metadata filters that sort media files by faces, location data, camera, lens, and more.
Synology Photos also does advanced preprocessing and offloads demanding tasks like thumbnail generation and file conversions to another device. As a result, it efficiently streamlines resource allocation.
Synology Photos Mobile App
We also used Synology Photos on our smartphones. This mobile app saved more storage space since all our photos synced in the NAS.
It automatically saved our media files, which allowed us to delete photos stored on our smartphones. The best thing about this app is it provides quick access to the data in the NAS. As a result, we did not need to keep duplicate files saved on our smartphones.
Hyper Backup
Hyper Backup is another excellent solution from Synology. It is a versatile tool that does more than provide backup and synchronisation.
External drives present a significant risk of data loss as they can serve as single points of failure. Although they offer convenience, it is crucial to back up files to local file servers. Doing so will mitigate potential data loss permanently.
When you lose data because of sudden deletion or unauthorised modifications, backups turn into invaluable assets.
These enable the restoration of mission-critical data, preventing costly downtime.
By leveraging data protection solutions from Synology, you can design a comprehensive backup strategy for your entire IT infrastructure.
It is essential to safeguard both endpoints and primary backups to establish safety nets for your data. Ensure the NAS is backed-up, encompassing system settings, applications, and shared folders. Optimise storage space with data deduplication techniques and create copies stored in multiple destinations for enhanced redundancy.
The best thing about Hyper Backup is it backs up as many files and data as our storage allows. It has no limits or hidden fees since it does not require a monthly or annual subscription.
Multi-versioning
We will also discuss the multi-versioning feature of Hyper Backup in our Synology DS423 Review. With this, you can retain numerous backup versions while decreasing storage use. It is possible with block-level incremental deduplication and backup.
The configurable rotation policies allowed the automated deletion of much older backup files.
Deduplication
With deduplication, you can minimise storage consumption. You can also decrease backup times by removing any duplicate data copies.
Usage Statistics
This feature allows you to track storage usage either monthly or annually. Plus, you can get alerts when the system notices excessive use. oo
Pause-Resume Backups
Whenever tasks get interrupted due to network issues or power failures, do not worry. With the pause-resume backup feature, your work can get paused and resumed when everything returns to normal.
Flexible Recovery of All Your Files
You can access your backup files via web-based platforms. Or, you can reach them via the Hyper Backup Explorer desktop client.
You only need to use File Station or the C2 Storage portal to see and recover backups. Get these from your browser, depending on its backup location.
Utilise the Hyper Backup Explorer to view, search, and download local backups to your NAS. It also includes remote backups to the C2 Storage via macOS, Windows, Ubuntu, and even Fedora Systems.
Hyper Backup Vault for a Centralised File Destination
Downloading Hyper Backup Vault turns the DS423 into a backup destination for other NAS. Plus, it allows tracking storage use and backup efficiency.
Synology DS423 Review Summary
The DS423 is an impressive compact solution for data storage. It has efficient features, software, and technologies that deliver everything content creators need.
During our product tests for this Synology DS423 Review, we enjoyed its advanced file management, storage, and backup tools. We were also impressed with its performance since it was responsive and worked excellently.
Synology aims at general customers with these latest releases since these are more affordable without compromising performance. We appreciate this change since many people complain about the high-costing NAS from this brand.
We highly recommend the DS423 to content creators and anyone who wants an efficient storage solution. Learn more about the DS423 by visiting the official product page of Synology.
