Turning off your Synology NAS is a simple task that every owner should know how to do properly. You can shut down your Synology NAS through the DSM interface or by using the physical power button on the device. Knowing how to do this safely helps protect your data and extend the life of your NAS.
The process is quick and easy, taking just a few clicks or button presses. Whether you’re powering down for maintenance, saving energy, or moving your NAS, it’s important to follow the right steps. Let’s explore the different methods to turn off your Synology NAS and when to use each one.
| Shutdown Method | When to Use | Time to Complete |
|---|---|---|
| DSM Interface | Regular use | 1-2 minutes |
| Power Button | No DSM access | 3-5 seconds |
| Scheduled Shutdown | Automated control | Set in advance |
Understanding Synology NAS and DiskStation Manager (DSM)
Synology NAS devices offer powerful storage solutions. DiskStation Manager (DSM) provides the user-friendly interface to control these systems.
Fundamentals of NAS Devices
NAS stands for Network Attached Storage. These devices connect to your network to provide shared storage access. Synology NAS units feature multiple hard drive bays for expandable capacity.
Key benefits of NAS include:
- Centralized file storage
- Easy file sharing
- Remote access
- Data backup
Synology NAS models range from 1-bay personal units to 24-bay enterprise solutions. They support various RAID configurations for data protection.
Most Synology NAS devices use standard 3.5″ or 2.5″ hard drives. This allows you to choose drives that fit your needs and budget.
Overview of DSM
DiskStation Manager is Synology’s operating system for NAS devices. It powers the user interface and manages all NAS functions.
DSM features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| File Management | Browse and organize files |
| User Access | Control permissions |
| Backup Tools | Protect your data |
| Media Streaming | Share photos, music, videos |
| Apps | Extend NAS functionality |
You can access DSM through a web browser. This allows easy management from any device on your network.
DSM updates bring new features and security patches. Synology regularly releases updates to improve your NAS experience.
Power Management on Synology NAS
Effective power management on your Synology NAS can save energy and extend hardware life. The Control Panel offers key settings for power control, UPS integration, and scheduling.
Using the Control Panel for Power Settings
The Control Panel is your hub for managing power on your Synology NAS. To access it, log into DSM and click on the Control Panel icon. Navigate to “Hardware & Power” to find power-related options.
Here you can adjust when the hard drives go to sleep and configure the power button’s behavior. You might set drives to hibernate after 20 minutes of inactivity to save power. The power button can be set to shut down your NAS when pressed.
A useful feature is the ability to wake the NAS on LAN. This lets you turn on your NAS remotely using a special network packet.
| Power Setting | Function | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| HDD Hibernation | Puts drives to sleep | Saves energy |
| Power Button | Configures button action | Allows quick shutdown |
| Wake on LAN | Remote power on | Enables access when needed |
Understanding UPS Integration
UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) integration protects your NAS from power outages. Connect a compatible UPS to your Synology NAS via USB for automatic shutdown during extended power losses.
In the Control Panel, find the UPS tab to set up this feature. You can choose how long the NAS should run on battery before initiating shutdown. This prevents data loss from sudden power cuts.
Some UPS models allow you to monitor battery levels directly through the DSM interface. This gives you real-time info on your power backup status.
Configuring Power Schedule
The Power Schedule feature lets you automate when your NAS turns on and off. This is great for saving power during off-hours.
To set up a schedule, go to the Power Schedule tab in Control Panel. Click “Create” to add new on/off times. You can set different schedules for weekdays and weekends.
For example, you might schedule your NAS to turn off at 11 PM and back on at 7 AM daily. This cuts power use when you’re less likely to need access.
Remember to consider any automated tasks like backups when setting your schedule. Ensure your NAS is on when these jobs need to run.
Conducting Scheduled Tasks and Backups
Synology NAS devices offer robust tools for automating backups and tasks. These features help protect your data and streamline system management.
Setting Up Hyper Backup
Hyper Backup is Synology’s comprehensive backup solution. To set it up:
- Open DiskStation Manager (DSM)
- Go to Package Center
- Install Hyper Backup
- Launch Hyper Backup
- Click “+” to create a new backup task
- Choose your backup destination (local, remote, or cloud)
- Select the data you want to back up
- Set a backup schedule
- Configure retention policies
Hyper Backup supports versioning and deduplication. This saves space while allowing you to restore from multiple points in time.
Creating Scheduled Backup Tasks
To create a scheduled backup task:
- Go to Control Panel > Task Scheduler
- Click Create > Scheduled Task
- Choose “Backup” as the task type
- Set the backup frequency (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Pick a start time
- Select the folders or shared folders to back up
- Choose the backup destination
You can also set up power management tasks. This lets you schedule your NAS to shut down after backups finish. It’s useful for saving energy during off-hours.
| Backup Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Hyper Backup | Versioning, deduplication | Requires more setup |
| Scheduled Task | Simple to configure | Limited features |
Shutting Down or Restarting Your Synology NAS
Proper shutdown and restart procedures are essential for maintaining your Synology NAS. You have several options to power off or reboot your device safely.
Shutdown Procedures via DSM
To shut down your Synology NAS through DSM:
- Log in to DSM with admin privileges
- Click the “Options” menu in the top-right corner
- Select “Shutdown” or “Restart”
- Confirm your choice when prompted
For automatic power management, set up startup and shutdown rules:
- Open “Control Panel”
- Go to “Hardware & Power” > “Power Schedule”
- Click “Create” to add new rules
- Choose days and times for startup/shutdown events
This feature helps save energy and extend your NAS lifespan.
Remote Shutdown with DS Finder
The DS Finder app lets you control your NAS from your mobile device:
- Install DS Finder on your smartphone
- Connect to your Synology NAS
- Tap the “Settings” icon
- Select “Shut Down” or “Restart”
This method is handy when you’re away from home or office. Make sure your NAS and phone are on the same network for remote access.
Using SSH for Advanced Power Commands
SSH offers a command-line approach to manage your NAS:
- Enable SSH in DSM: Control Panel > Terminal & SNMP > Terminal
- Connect via SSH client using admin credentials
- Use these commands:
- Shutdown:
sudo shutdown -h now - Restart:
sudo reboot
- Shutdown:
SSH is useful for scripting or when the web interface is unavailable. Be cautious with SSH access to avoid security risks.
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| DSM | User-friendly, scheduled options | Requires web access |
| DS Finder | Remote control | Needs network connection |
| SSH | Versatile, scriptable | Technical knowledge required |
Choose the method that best fits your needs and technical comfort level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shutting down and restarting a Synology NAS can be tricky. These questions cover common issues users face when powering off their devices.
How can I correctly shut down my Synology NAS using the power button?
To shut down your Synology NAS with the power button, press and hold it for a few seconds. Wait for the blue LED to start flashing. This indicates the shutdown process has begun. Release the button and let the NAS complete its shutdown routine.
Don’t unplug the device until all lights are off. This ensures all data is safely written to the drives.
What are the steps to shut down a Synology NAS from a remote location?
You can shut down your Synology NAS remotely through DiskStation Manager (DSM). Log in to the DSM web interface. Click the user icon in the top-right corner. Select “Shut Down” from the menu.
Confirm your choice when prompted. The NAS will begin its shutdown process.
Is it safe to regularly power off a Synology NAS device?
Regular shutdowns are generally safe for Synology NAS devices. They’re designed to handle power cycles. But frequent on-off switches may stress components over time.
It’s best to leave your NAS on if you need constant access to files. For occasional use, powering off can save energy.
What could be causing my Synology NAS to not shut down when I attempt to power it off?
If your NAS won’t shut down, running processes might be preventing it. Check for active backups or file transfers. Cancel these tasks if possible.
Ensure you’re using the correct shutdown method. Forcing a shutdown by holding the power button too long can cause issues.
How do I restart my Synology NAS from a remote location?
To restart remotely, log in to DSM through a web browser. Click the user icon and choose “Restart.” Confirm your choice when prompted.
You can also set up scheduled restarts for maintenance. This keeps your NAS running smoothly without manual intervention.
What does a flashing blue power button indicate on a Synology NAS?
A flashing blue power button usually means the NAS is shutting down or starting up. It’s a normal part of the power cycle process.
If the light keeps flashing for a long time, your NAS might be stuck. Try a manual shutdown by holding the power button for a few seconds.
| Action | Power Button Behavior | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | Solid blue | NAS is on and ready |
| Shutdown | Flashing blue | NAS is powering off |
| Stuck | Continuous flashing | May need manual intervention |
| Off | No light | NAS is powered down |