5 Best VPNs for Synology NAS in 2024: Easy to Set Up & Use

As a leading Network Attached Storage (NAS) device, Synology provides a centralized data storage service that’s highly secure. But even with this high level of security, your connection remains unprotected when you share files with others on your network. Since people use Synology NAS devices to store sensitive information, this can be a real concern.

After testing 50+ providers, my team and I found the best VPNs for Synology. These VPNs encrypt your connection to ensure safe file transfers and offer fast speeds to minimize slowdowns. Plus, they adhere to a strict no-logs policy and are easy to set up on Synology NAS.

My top recommendation for Synology NAS is ExpressVPN. It has strong security features to keep your data safe from external threats. Plus, its fast speeds allow for speedy file transfers. You can test ExpressVPN with Synology risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied, you can get a full refund. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Try ExpressVPN for Synology NAS >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Synology in 2024

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Best VPNs for Synology NAS — Full Analysis (2024 Update)

1. ExpressVPN — Overall Best Synology VPN With Fast Speeds and Strong Security

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested November 2024

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN is the fastest Synology NAS VPN I’ve tested. During my tests on its nearby UK servers (using OpenVPN), I experienced a speed drop of only 5%. In comparison, the speed drop was over 40% with some other VPNs I tested. This allows you to access or share large files safely without any delays.

When it comes to security, ExpressVPN doesn’t cut any corners. It uses SHA512 hashing with a 4096-bit RSA key — this is a stronger signature scheme than most banks even use. Plus, AES 256-bit military-grade encryption is paired with Perfect Forward Secrecy, which creates a new encryption key for every bit of data sent. This combination ensures that your Synology NAS data remains private and secure, even if an encryption key gets compromised in the future.

ExpressVPN adheres to a strict and audited no-logs policy, which means your NAS activity is never stored or shared. Being headquartered in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) further solidifies its stance on user privacy, as the region isn't part of any data-sharing alliance.

The only problem is that it’s a bit expensive compared to other options. However, it offers generous discounts throughout the year that make your subscription a bit more affordable. You can try ExpressVPN for Synology NAS risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested this through live chat and got a refund in just 3 days.

Useful Features

• Easy router setup. ExpressVPN is one of the few VPNs that offer custom firmware and a dedicated router app for select router models. This makes it super easy to set up and use the VPN on your router. By setting up the VPN on your router, you can extend the VPN protection to all devices connected to your network, including NAS.
• Device Groups. With this feature, each device connected to the router can connect to a different location. For instance, your NAS could be connected to a US server while your smartphone is using the UK VPN server. You can create up to 5 such groups, which makes it even more convenient for your household to use.

2. CyberGhost — No-Spy Servers for Private and Secure NAS Transfers

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost takes your online privacy seriously by offering super-secure NoSpy servers, which are housed in its HQ in Romania. Most VPN servers are housed in shared data centers, and this increases the risk of third-party interference or data interception. However, these NoSpy servers can only be accessed by CyberGhost employees, so you can be sure your NAS data transfers are fully protected. They come at a small extra fee.

The company also publishes quarterly transparency reports where it details the legal requests it receives for user data and how it responds. CyberGhost adheres to a strict no-logs policy, so it never has anything to share. For Synology NAS users, this means your data is protected by a company that values privacy.

Setting up CyberGhost on your Synology NAS is a breeze. Thanks to helpful instructions on its website, I set up CyberGhost on my Synology device by configuring it with the OpenVPN protocol — it took only 4 minutes. For OpenVPN, CyberGhost offers both UDP and TCP.

The only downside is that its monthly subscription is a little expensive and only has a short 14-day money-back guarantee period. However, its long-term plan offers significant savings with an extended money-back guarantee of 45 days. This means you can test CyberGhost with NAS for free — if you’re not happy with it, you can get a full refund.

Useful Features

• IP/DNS leak protection. CyberGhost protects your sensitive Synology NAS data with solid leak protection. I tested 10 of its servers for DNS/IP leaks and didn’t find any.
• RAM-only servers. Like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost also uses RAM-only configuration for all its servers. This ensures your NAS activity isn't physically stored on the servers, enhancing your privacy.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Large Server Network for Fast and Reliable NAS Transfers

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA has the largest server network of any Synology VPN I tested. This ensures a stable connection, as you don’t have to deal with server congestion. Plus, this also means that you’re more likely to find a server that's geographically closer to your location, reducing latency and ensuring that tasks like backups or syncing with cloud services run smoothly.

The speeds don’t disappoint, either. On nearby UK servers, I saw my speed drop by only 9%. Whether you're uploading to your Synology NAS or retrieving files, it ensures a quick data transfer process. A faster connection also means buffer-free playback if you use Synology NAS for streaming via Plex or Video Station.

PIA is based in the US, a country with data surveillance concerns. However, it has a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited and verified by third parties. It was even proven in court in 2016 when the FBI demanded it handed over user data, but it didn’t have anything to share. You can rest easy knowing your Synology activity is safe.

You can take PIA for a test run for free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you don’t like it, you can get a full refund.

Useful Features

• Easy setup. PIA is fairly easy to set up on Synology DSM — it took me less than 3 minutes to get it running. Plus, you can also install it on your router to protect your Synology NAS device.
• Unlimited simultaneous devices. Your entire household can connect to NAS securely, as PIA doesn’t limit how many devices can have an active connection at once. This makes it great value for money, too, particularly for larger households.

4. NordVPN — Meshnet Feature for Direct and Secure Synology NAS Connections

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN’s Meshnet feature ensures a direct, encrypted connection to your NAS. This is a virtual LAN network that allows your NAS and up to 59 other devices to connect and communicate directly, regardless of location. Whether you're sharing files, streaming content, or working remotely, Meshnet eliminates the need for complex configurations.

In terms of speeds, it's right behind ExpressVPN. During my tests from the UK, I had an average speed drop of 6% on local servers. This ensures that whether you're streaming from your NAS or transferring files, the experience remains seamless.

The only problem with NordVPN is its renewal prices. While initially attractive, the cost goes significantly up when it's time to renew. But even with the price hike, long-term plans are relatively affordable.

NordVPN lets you test it for free with its 30-day money-back guarantee. If you want to cancel, you can do so through the live chat.

Useful Features

• Strong privacy protection. NordVPN also has a strict no-logs policy, which has been independently verified 4 times — twice by PwC and twice by Deloitte. These audits confirm that when you use NordVPN with your Synology NAS, your activity remains private, and no records are kept. Plus, it’s based in the privacy-friendly Panama.
• Crypto payments. For added security, you can use a secondary email address and pay in crypto when signing up for NordVPN.

5. Surfshark — Unlimited Simultaneous Connections to Protect All Your Devices With NAS

Works With:

ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous device connections, which includes the manual installation you’ll need to set it up on your Synology NAS. This lets your entire household securely access and transfer data from your NAS without interruptions. I tested this by connecting 12 devices, including my NAS, Windows laptop, and various smartphones, and had no speed drops.

If you torrent on Synology NAS, Surfshark's servers in 100 countries come in handy. By connecting to a server in a different country, you can sidestep ISP throttling to download large, copyright-free files safely.

My only concern is that Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which is a part of the 14 Eyes Alliance. However, it operates under a strict no-logs policy, so your Synology NAS activity is safe.

You can test Surfshark for free with Synology NAS with its 30-day money-back guarantee. Just ask for a refund if it’s not for you.

Useful Features

• Military-grade encryption. It protects your Synology NAS data with AES 256-bit military-grade encryption.
• Value for money. Surfshark offers great value for money — you can get a subscription for just $1.99/month with its long-term plan.

How to Install a VPN on Synology

Installing a VPN on Synology is possible using either the OpenVPN or PPTP protocol. The setup guidelines are largely consistent across various VPNs. For detailed steps, it's best to consult the installation guide on your VPN provider's website. Below are the fundamental installation directions:

OpenVPN

1. Download the OpenVPN configuration files. Go to your VPN provider’s website, sign in to your account, and download the configuration files for OpenVPN. Make sure you select your current country as the location for the files. Keep this window open — you’ll need this info later
2. Disable IPv6. Open the control panel on your Synology device, pick LAN under Network Interface, and choose Edit. Then, choose IPv6, open IPv6 Setup, and select Off before restarting your Synology device. This helps prevent IPv6 traffic from leaking outside of the VPN tunnel
3. Create a VPN profile on Synology. Go to the Network Interface tab under Network in the Synology control panel. Then, click Create, select Create VPN profile, and choose OpenVPN (via importing a.ovpn file) before clicking Next. Finally, enter the required profile details, upload the OpenVPN files from step 1, and select Next.
4. Apply your VPN profile. Check the boxes Use default gateway on remote network and Reconnect when the VPN connection is lost. Then, click Apply.
5. Connect to a VPN server. Go back to the Network interface, find the VPN profile you created in step 3, and click Connect. You know you're connected when the word Connected appears under your name. To disconnect, simply click the Disconnect button.

PPTP

1. Create a VPN Profile. Follow the same steps as OpenVPN but choose PPTP instead. Enter the required details and the advanced settings, which are usually MS-CHAP v2 for authentication and Maximum MPPE (128 bit) for encryption. This depends on your VPN provider, so check with them first.
2. Apply your profile. Like OpenVPN, check the boxes Use default gateway on remote network and Reconnect when the VPN connection is lost before clicking Apply.
3. Connect to your server. Choose your PPTP profile and click Connect.

Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for Synology

When it comes to choosing a VPN for your Synology NAS, certain features are non-negotiable. Here's a breakdown of what to prioritize:

• Strong security. Your Synology NAS may contain sensitive information, so it's important to choose a VPN with strong security features, like AES 256-bit encryption and IP/DNS leak protection. I made sure that every VPN on this list meets these security standards.
• Fast speeds. While VPNs can introduce some speed reductions, the best ones minimize this impact. Aim for a VPN that has a speed drop of less than 30% on nearby servers. This way, you won’t experience slowdowns while transferring files. Each Synology VPN on this list offers excellent speeds on local servers.
• Global server network. Your server location significantly affects your connection, as longer distances usually result in unreliable speeds. An extensive server network will let you choose a server close to you so that you can experience a fully optimized connection for Synology.
• Simple installation process. Given that Synology doesn't have native support for VPN apps, it's essential to choose a VPN that's straightforward to set up on Synology NAS. I made sure to shortlist VPNs that can be easily set up on Synology NAS. Plus, they are all compatible with routers and offer apps for most modern devices.
• Legitimate money-back guarantee. This lets you get a feel for your VPN without any financial risk during a set period (usually 30 days). In short, you can claim a full refund by a specific date if it’s not for you.
• Responsive customer support. Configuring a VPN to Synology can be a bit challenging if you’re new to the process. Luckily, most reputable VPNs (including those in this list) offer 24/7 live chat, so you can get all of the support you need when you need it.

FAQs on Synology VPNs

Why do I need a VPN for Synology?

The main reason to use a VPN for Synology is security and privacy. Although files on your Synology NAS are protected, the danger lies in transferring files to and from your device. This can be especially risky if you or another user access Synology from an unsecured network such as a public WiFi hotspot.

Installing a VPN onto your Synology NAS will automatically encrypt all incoming and outgoing traffic. This means that any malicious third party will not be able to access your sensitive information, even if they can intercept your traffic.

Some ISPs might throttle your connection if they detect high data usage or activities like torrenting. With a VPN, your online NAS activities remain hidden, ensuring consistent, fast speeds.

Is it legal to use a VPN for Synology?

As long as your country hasn’t outlawed VPNs, it’s legal. Some countries with restricted VPN use include China, Russia, and Belarus. If you’re visiting one of these places, download and install a VPN onto your Synology device before traveling. Also, I strongly recommend you familiarize yourself with your country and Synology’s legal guidelines so that you don’t accidentally break any laws.

What is a Synology VPN server package?

A Synology VPN server package lets you install a VPN on your Synology NAS device. With the Synology server package, you can use a VPN to protect Synology files shared with other users on the same network. Plus, you can use it to make your Synology device a VPN server by configuring it with the OpenVPN or PPTP protocols. Just make sure you get a VPN that supports these protocols to ensure maximum security.

What if my Synology VPN isn't working?

First, make sure your VPN is compatible with Synology NAS. Not all VPNs work with Synology NAS devices.

If you’ve chosen a compatible VPN and it still doesn’t work, try the following:

• Restart your Synology NAS. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve connection issues. Power off your Synology NAS, wait for a few minutes, and then turn it back on.
• Update Synology DSM. Ensure you're running the latest version of DiskStation Manager (DSM). Outdated software can sometimes cause compatibility issues.
• Reconfigure VPN settings. It's possible that there might be an error in your VPN configuration. Double-check the server address, username, password, and other settings. If you're using OpenVPN, ensure the configuration file (.ovpn) is correctly uploaded.
• Check the VPN server status. Sometimes, the issue might be on the VPN provider's side. Check if the server you're trying to connect to is online and not experiencing any issues.
• Change VPN protocol. If you're using PPTP, try switching to OpenVPN or vice versa. Different protocols have different levels of compatibility and security.
• Firewall/port settings. Ensure that the necessary ports for the VPN protocol you're using are open on your router and not being blocked by a firewall.
• Logs and error messages. Check the logs on your Synology NAS for any error messages related to the VPN connection. These messages can provide clues about what's causing the issue.
• Contact your VPN provider. If you've tried all the above steps and still can't connect, it might be time to reach out to your VPN provider's support team. They can help you with your specific problem.

Can I access Synology NAS on my local network while the VPN is on?

Yes, you can access your Synology NAS on your local network even if you have a VPN active on your remote device, like a PC or smartphone. However, many VPN apps, by default, block local network connections when the VPN is turned on. This is a security feature to prevent potential leaks or breaches.

To bypass this, you'll need to adjust your VPN settings:

• Allow local network connections. Most VPN apps have an option in their settings that lets you allow local network connections even when the VPN is active. By enabling this option, you can maintain your VPN connection on your device and still access local resources, such as your Synology NAS.
• Check VPN limitations. While many VPNs offer this feature, some might not. It's essential to refer to your VPN's documentation or support to get specifics about allowing local network connections.

Can I use a free VPN for Synology NAS?

It’s possible to use a free VPN for Synology NAS, but I strongly advise against it. While the free aspect might be enticing, a low-cost premium VPN with a money-back guarantee is a more reliable option.

A big issue with free VPNs is the lack of advanced security features (like IP/DNS leak protection and reliable VPN protocols), which make free VPNs unsafe for Synology NAS. Free services also tend to limit speed and servers, which result in slowdowns and congestion.

Lastly, free VPNs are notorious for collecting user data and selling it to third parties for profit. Since Synology NAS is used to store personal data, free VPNs are generally a risky option.

Get the Best VPN for Synology

By installing a VPN on your Synology NAS device, you can protect files and other forms of data that you share with others on your local network. The VPN installation is manual because Synology doesn’t support native VPN apps. But by following a few simple instructions, you’ll be set up and protected in no time.

My favorite VPN for Synology NAS is ExpressVPN, as its fast speeds, strong security features, and trustworthy no-logs policy keep you secure without slowing you down. And since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test it without risk. That means you can get a refund if you’re not completely satisfied.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Synology NAS…

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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