Synology: local storage, backup, and surveillance for businesses that still need infrastructure on-site
Synology is one of the leading NAS (Network Attached Storage) vendors, with products spanning desktop and rack-mount NAS, surveillance, networking, and a software ecosystem including Active Backup for Business, Synology Drive, Surveillance Station, and the C2 cloud services. For UK businesses that need local storage, fast access to large files, on-site backup, or business surveillance, Synology occupies the sensible middle ground between consumer storage and full enterprise SAN deployments.
The move to Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace has reduced the need for traditional on-premises file servers for most businesses. But there are still workflows where local storage matters: creative agencies handling multi-gigabyte video and design files, architecture practices with CAD libraries, businesses with substantial archive data, or those needing local backup targets for fast recovery. For these scenarios, a properly deployed Synology NAS earns its place.
Dr Logic deploys and supports Synology NAS, backup, and surveillance across client environments where it’s the right fit. This sits inside our IT Success® Plans and connects to the wider IT support, cyber security, and backup work we deliver.
What Dr Logic delivers with Synology
- NAS specification and deployment. We specify the right Synology unit for your workflow (capacity, redundancy level, performance class, expandability) and deploy it properly. This includes proper RAID configuration, network setup, share permissions, and integration with your identity and access controls. Done once, done right.
- File server and shared storage setup. For clients with local file sharing requirements, we configure SMB or AFP shares, set permissions properly against your directory (JumpCloud, Entra ID, or Active Directory), and integrate with the desktop experience on Mac and Windows.
- Active Backup for Business. Synology’s built-in backup product is one of the most underrated parts of the platform. We use Active Backup for image-level backup of Windows endpoints, file server backup, VM backup, and (where appropriate) Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace backup. Backup runs to the NAS locally for fast recovery, with secondary copies to cloud or off-site storage for proper 3-2-1 backup posture.
- Off-site replication and disaster recovery. We configure Synology’s replication features (Snapshot Replication, Hyper Backup, Active Backup off-site copies) so backup data exists off-site as well as locally. For clients with multiple offices, we use NAS-to-NAS replication. For others, replication to Synology C2 or another cloud target provides the off-site copy.
- Surveillance Station and business CCTV. For clients needing on-site surveillance (offices, studios, secure areas) we deploy Synology Surveillance Station alongside the NAS, or dedicated Synology NVR units for larger camera deployments. Integration with the existing network is handled cleanly, and access controls are properly configured.
- Synology Drive for sync and collaboration. Where it’s useful (typically as an alternative or complement to cloud collaboration), we deploy Synology Drive for file sync between the NAS and user devices. This works particularly well for clients who need fast local access to large files but want sync rather than network mount.
- Hardware lifecycle and capacity planning. Storage grows over time. We plan capacity, monitor utilisation, refresh hardware before it becomes a problem, and migrate data cleanly between units when needed. This is the unglamorous work that prevents emergencies.
- Security configuration and updates. NAS units are commonly attacked when exposed badly. We configure Synology units with proper firewall rules, no public exposure unless absolutely necessary, MFA on admin access, automatic security updates within controlled windows, and integration into the broader cyber security posture. This ties into Cyber Essentials requirements where applicable.
- Monitoring and ongoing support. Drive health, RAID status, backup job success, capacity, and security posture are monitored continuously. Issues get spotted and dealt with before they become incidents. This is part of the IT Success® Plan, not a separate service.
Expertise and approach
Dr Logic has years of hands-on experience deploying and managing Synology infrastructure across client environments, particularly creative agencies and professional services firms with workflows that genuinely need local storage. This runs alongside our Apple Premium Technical Partner work, which matters: getting NAS storage to behave properly with Mac (SMB performance, Finder behaviour, sync reliability on large files, Time Machine over network) needs specific expertise that not all IT providers have.
We deploy Synology deliberately, where the workflow genuinely calls for it, rather than as a default. Many of our clients are well served by Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace alone. For those who aren’t, Synology earns its place.
When Synology is the right fit, and when it isn’t
Synology NAS is the right call when local storage genuinely matters: creative agencies with large media files, AEC firms with CAD libraries, businesses with substantial archive data that doesn’t belong in cloud storage on cost grounds, or those needing a local backup target for fast recovery. Surveillance Station is a credible choice for businesses needing CCTV without a separate dedicated NVR setup.
That said, it’s not always the right answer. For most office workflows, Microsoft 365 (SharePoint and OneDrive) or Google Workspace (Drive and Shared Drives) covers what you need without on-premises infrastructure to maintain. For clients with large files but cloud-first requirements, Egnyte often works better than NAS because it gives the cloud collaboration layer with local caching options. For pure cloud backup of Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, CloudAlly or Barracuda Cloud-to-Cloud Backup typically wins over NAS-based Active Backup for ease of management.
On the recent Synology drive compatibility changes: Synology has moved to requiring Synology-branded drives in some 2025 Plus-series models, which has caused friction in parts of the market. This affects total cost and creates lock-in concerns. We’re honest with clients about this when specifying new units, and we factor it into the recommendation against alternatives. Other NAS vendors worth knowing about: QNAP is the most direct competitor, often more flexible on hardware but historically with a weaker security record. TrueNAS suits clients comfortable with self-managed open-source storage. For purely enterprise scenarios, Dell PowerStore or NetApp are the next step up, though typically over-specified for businesses in our client range.
The right answer depends on your workflow, your data, and whether on-premises storage genuinely earns its place in the setup. Get in touch and we’ll talk it through.
Who Is Synology?
Founded in 2000, Synology has established itself as a pioneer in the field of data storage and management. With over six million installations worldwide, Synology is dedicated to transforming the way businesses handle their data. Their mission is to manage and protect the world’s data through elegantly simple, secure, and reliable solutions. Synology offers a wide array of products, including NAS devices, SAN solutions, and cloud services, all backed by cutting-edge innovation and a proven track record of reliability.
Why We Partner with Synology
Our partnership with Synology is driven by a shared commitment to excellence in data management. By integrating Synology’s advanced solutions into our service offerings, we provide our clients with several key benefits:
1. Comprehensive Data Management
Synology’s NAS and SAN solutions offer versatile private cloud deployments for unstructured data, enabling businesses to store, access, back up, and share files securely and efficiently. This centralized approach simplifies data management and enhances collaboration across teams.
2. Enhanced Security
Protecting sensitive information is crucial. Synology’s systems are equipped with robust security features, including advanced encryption, antivirus protection, and comprehensive backup solutions. These measures ensure that your data remains secure against unauthorized access and potential threats.
3. Scalability and Flexibility
As businesses grow, their data storage needs evolve. Synology offers a range of products designed to scale with your organization, from small office setups to enterprise-level deployments. Their solutions support seamless expansion, allowing your storage infrastructure to adapt to increasing demands without significant overhauls.
4. Seamless Integration
Synology’s systems are designed for compatibility and ease of integration. Whether you’re operating in a Windows, macOS, or Linux environment, Synology provides seamless interoperability, ensuring that your existing workflows remain uninterrupted. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for businesses utilizing diverse operating systems and applications.
5. User-Friendly Interface
Managing data storage solutions can be complex, but Synology simplifies this with their intuitive DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system. DSM offers a user-friendly interface that allows for easy configuration, monitoring, and management of your storage systems, reducing the learning curve and administrative burden on your IT staff.
How Synology Enhances Our IT Success Plans
Our IT Success® Plans are built around three key pillars: Support, Strategy, and Security. Synology’s solutions play a vital role in strengthening each of these areas:
- Support: With real-time monitoring tools, our support team can quickly identify and resolve issues, ensuring continuous operations.
- Strategy: Data analytics from Synology’s systems guides strategic decisions and future-proofing technology.
- Security: Integrated threat protection and compliance support safeguard your business data.
Ideal For: How Synology Supports Diverse Business Needs
Our partnership with Synology is ideal for a wide range of business scenarios, including:
1. Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMEs)
For SMEs that need cost-effective storage solutions, Synology offers scalability without the need for expensive infrastructure. As your business grows, so does your storage capacity, ensuring your IT infrastructure keeps pace with your expansion.
2. Creative Agencies and Media Companies
Organisations dealing with large files such as videos, graphics, and design files benefit from Synology’s high-capacity NAS solutions. The platform offers fast access speeds, secure file sharing, and collaborative tools, ideal for creative projects and media production workflows.
3. Businesses with Remote and Hybrid Teams
For companies with distributed workforces, Synology’s cloud solutions provide secure remote access to files, enabling employees to collaborate effectively from anywhere. Features like file syncing and remote backup ensure business continuity regardless of team location.
4. Highly Regulated Industries
Businesses in finance, healthcare, and legal sectors need strong data protection and compliance capabilities. Synology’s security features, including encryption and backup solutions, help maintain compliance with regulatory requirements such as GDPR, HIPAA, and FINRA.
5. Educational Institutions
Schools and universities that manage large amounts of data—from student records to research data—can benefit from Synology’s centralized storage solutions. Its user-friendly interface simplifies data management, ensuring that IT teams can focus on supporting educational technologies rather than data administration.
Experience the Dr Logic & Synology Advantage
By choosing Dr Logic and Synology as your data management partners, you gain:
- End-to-End Data Management: From storage and backup to security and compliance.
- Operational Efficiency: Centralized solutions that simplify data access and collaboration.
- Robust Security Measures: Protecting your business data from cyber threats and compliance risks.
- Scalable Solutions: Storage systems that grow with your business, ensuring long-term success.
What's Active Backup for Business?
Active Backup is Synology’s free backup software included with the NAS. It handles image-level backup of Windows endpoints, file server backup, VM backup, and Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace backup. For clients with a Synology already in place, it’s a sensible part of the backup strategy. For Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace backup specifically, dedicated cloud-to-cloud products like CloudAlly or Barracuda are often easier to operate at scale, but Active Backup is genuinely capable.
How does Synology compare to QNAP or TrueNAS?
QNAP is the most direct competitor and offers more hardware flexibility, but has historically had a weaker security track record (more public vulnerabilities, slower patching). Synology’s security posture is generally stronger. TrueNAS suits clients comfortable with open-source storage and willing to self-manage more. For most SME deployments, Synology hits the sensible balance of features, security, and supportability.
Take the Next Step Towards Reliable Data Management
If you’re considering local storage for a specific workflow, dealing with file size limitations in your current cloud setup, planning surveillance for your office, or just trying to work out whether on-premises infrastructure still earns its place in your IT, we’d be happy to take a proper look and tell you honestly what would work best.
