Synology Reverses Course on Some Drive Restrictions
In a move that has sparked both relief and curiosity among its users, Synology has released an update to its Disk Station Manager software that removes verified drive requirements from certain models of its network-attached storage devices. The change allows users to install non-validated third-party drives and create storage pools without restrictions.
The update affects the 2025 model-year Plus, Value, and J-series DiskStation devices, which had previously been subject to Synology's verified drive policy. According to a statement from Synology, the company is collaborating with third-party drive manufacturers to accelerate testing and verification of additional storage drives. However, users who install non-verified drives in affected models will still face reduced functionality and persistent warning messages in the DSM interface.
"We are committed to providing our customers with flexibility and choice when it comes to their storage needs," said a Synology spokesperson. "By removing these restrictions, we hope to make it easier for users to customize their systems and get the most out of their devices."
The move is seen as a significant shift in policy by Synology, which had previously charged substantial price premiums for its branded drives compared to commodity hardware. For example, an 8TB HAT5310 enterprise SATA drive costs $299, while an identically sized Seagate Exos disk can be purchased for $220.
The decision to reverse course on some drive restrictions has sparked debate among users and industry experts. Some see it as a welcome move that will give customers more flexibility and choice in their storage options. Others are concerned about the potential implications of allowing non-verified drives, including reduced performance and increased risk of data loss.
"We're pleased to see Synology taking steps to make its products more user-friendly," said Mark Peters, a storage expert at ESG Research. "However, we would caution users to carefully evaluate their options before installing non-validated drives. It's essential to ensure that any third-party drives meet the necessary performance and reliability standards."
It remains to be seen whether this policy change will apply to previous-generation products or if Synology will continue to expand its verified drive list in the future.
Background
Synology has been a leading provider of network-attached storage devices for over two decades, known for their ease of use, high performance, and robust feature set. The company's Disk Station Manager software is widely regarded as one of the most user-friendly and intuitive NAS operating systems on the market.
In recent years, Synology has faced increasing competition from other vendors, including QNAP and Western Digital. In response, the company has sought to differentiate its products through innovative features and a strong focus on customer support.
Additional Perspectives
The move by Synology is seen as part of a broader trend in the storage industry towards greater flexibility and customization. As users increasingly demand more control over their data and storage options, vendors are responding with more open and inclusive policies.
"This is a significant development for the NAS market," said Steven J. Barrett, an analyst at IDC. "Synology's decision to relax its drive restrictions will likely be followed by other vendors as they seek to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape."
Current Status and Next Developments
The update to Synology's Disk Station Manager software is available now for download from the company's website. Users who have previously installed non-verified drives on affected models are advised to check their system settings and ensure that they meet the necessary requirements.
Synology has not yet clarified whether this policy change will apply to previous-generation products or if it will continue to expand its verified drive list in the future. As the company continues to collaborate with third-party drive manufacturers, users can expect more information on new storage options and compatibility in the coming months.
*Reporting by Hardware.*
