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Synology Limits Advanced Features for Plus Models Using Non-Certified Drives
In a strategic shift, Synology, a prominent manufacturer of network-attached storage (NAS) devices, plans to restrict the advanced capabilities of its Plus series models that utilize hard drives not produced or certified by the company, beginning with the 2025 product lineup.
A recent report from HardwareLuxx and a related press release on Synology’s German website provide confirmation of this new approach. The company emphasizes the “significant benefits” of its “proprietary hard drive solution,” noting an intention to extend its “integrated ecosystem” to the Plus series. Starting in 2025, only Synology-branded drives and third-party drives that have received Synology certification will be able to access the “full range of functions and support.” This is aimed at ensuring “the highest levels of security and performance” while delivering more efficient support services.
Inquiries made to Synology’s US office are awaiting a response, and updates will follow once information is received.
This policy change may initially be limited to the German market or perhaps the entire European Union. While maintaining separate firmware for different regions is feasible, it is not the most efficient approach. Synology has previously identified certified drive requirements for its higher-end models on a global basis.
For existing users of Plus series or higher Synology hardware, the impending modifications will not pose immediate issues unless they decide to upgrade. Furthermore, users can transfer hard drives from their current Synology setups into new Plus models launched in 2025 or beyond and continue to enjoy comprehensive support. The company’s previous implementations of similar requirements for XS Plus and rack-mounted models meant that those users were already restricted to Synology-approved drives.
Utilizing non-Synology-approved hard drives could potentially lead to the loss of several functionalities, including pool creation and support for troubleshooting. Other features, such as de-duplication, lifespan analysis, and automatic firmware updates for hard drives, could also be rendered ineffective when using non-certified drives, as indicated in Synology’s press communication.
Source
arstechnica.com