Synology DS1621xs+ NAS Review: High-Performance Storage Solution

We've got the scoop on the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS, the ultimate storage solution for small and medium businesses. With its top-of-the-line hardware and lightning-fast data transfers, this NAS server is perfect for intense workloads and multi-user environments. Equipped with a Xeon 2.2GHz CPU, 32GB memory, and a massive 108TB HDD storage, it's designed to deliver optimal performance and reliability. Stay tuned as we dive into the features, performance, and overall experience to see if it lives up to its high-performance reputation.

Key Takeaways

• The Synology DS1621xs+ NAS is designed for small and medium business environments with intensive, multi-user workloads.
• It features a powerful Xeon D-1527 4-Core 2.2GHz CPU and 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM memory for high-performance operation.
• The NAS offers impressive storage capacity, with up to 108TB HDD storage and 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD.
• It provides multiple connectivity options, including 10GbE LAN port, 1GbE LAN ports, USB 3.2 ports, and eSATA ports, for expanding the network and connecting various devices.

High-Performance Storage Solution

In reviewing the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS, we found it to be a high-performance storage solution that exceeds expectations. This NAS server is designed for small and medium business environments with intensive, multi-user workloads. With its Xeon D-1527 4-Core 2.2GHz CPU and 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM Memory, it delivers powerful performance for various server roles, such as iSCSI targets backup, file storage, email servers, and domain controllers. The 108TB (6 x 18TB) SATA 3.5 HDDs provide high-capacity storage, while the 1 x 10GbE LAN Port ensures fast network connectivity. The DSM operating system offers advanced features like the Btrfs file system for advanced LUN iSCSI service. With this NAS, you have control over your data and can manage it efficiently. Overall, the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS is a reliable and impressive high-performance storage solution.

Key Features

Let's take a look at the key features of the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS. One of the standout specifications is its impressive storage capacity, offering up to 108TB of HDD storage, along with a 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD for faster performance. Additionally, the DS1621xs+ is equipped with a powerful Xeon D-1527 4-Core 2.2GHz CPU and 32GB of DDR4 ECC SODIMM memory, making it suitable for handling intensive, multi-user workloads.

Specs

With its powerful Xeon 2.2GHz CPU, 32GB memory, and 108TB HDD storage, the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS offers exceptional performance and storage capabilities for small and medium businesses. This high-performance storage solution is designed to meet the needs of intensive, multi-user workloads in various server roles, including iSCSI targets backup, file storage, email servers, and domain controllers. The hardware specifications of the DS1621xs+ are impressive, featuring a Xeon D-1527 4-Core 2.2GHz CPU with turbo boost up to 2.7GHz, 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM memory, and 108TB (6 x 18TB) SATA 3.5 HDDs for high-capacity storage. Additionally, it offers 2 x RJ-45 1GbE LAN ports, 1 x RJ-45 10GbE LAN port with link aggregation/failover support, 3 x USB 3.2 ports, and 2 x eSATA ports. The DS1621xs+ is powered by the Synology DSM software, providing a user-friendly and feature-rich operating system.

Pros/Cons

Here are the pros and cons of the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS. What we like about it is the high-performance Xeon CPU, ample memory, and large storage capacity. However, there are some enhancements needed, such as better cooling options and easier installation process for hard drives and memory upgrades.

What We Like

We appreciate the high-performance capabilities and versatile features of the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS server. Here are the top four things we like about it:

1. Impressive speed: The Xeon 2.2GHz CPU and 32GB memory ensure smooth and efficient performance, handling intensive workloads with ease.
2. Vast storage capacity: With 108TB HDD storage and 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD, you have ample space to store and access your files, ensuring no compromises on capacity.
3. Flexible connectivity options: The presence of 10GbE LAN port, 1GbE LAN ports, USB 3.2 ports, and eSATA ports provide multiple options for connecting and expanding your network.
4. Advanced operating system: The DSM operating system offers a user-friendly interface and a wide range of applications, giving you full control over your NAS server.

Enhancements Needed

Although the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS server offers impressive performance and features, there are areas that could benefit from enhancements. Here are four areas where improvements can be made to further enhance the user experience:

1. Expandability: The DS1621xs+ comes with six drive bays, which is a good starting point. However, the ability to expand the storage capacity further would be a valuable addition, especially for businesses with growing data needs.
2. Noise Level: While the DS1621xs+ is designed for small and medium business environments, the noise level can be quite noticeable. Quieter operation would be appreciated, especially for those who need to place the NAS server in close proximity to their workstations.
3. User Interface: Although the DSM operating system is feature-rich, the user interface could be more intuitive and user-friendly. Streamlining the navigation and simplifying the setup process would make it easier for users to take full advantage of the NAS server's capabilities.
4. Remote Access: While the DS1621xs+ supports remote access, setting it up can be a bit complicated for less tech-savvy users. Simplifying the remote access setup process would make it more accessible and convenient for all users.

Ideal use cases

While the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS server is designed for various server roles, it is primarily suitable for small and medium business environments with intensive, multi-user workloads. This high-performance storage solution is ideal for businesses that require robust and reliable storage capabilities to support their demanding workloads. Whether it's serving as an iSCSI target backup, file storage, email server, or domain controller, the DS1621xs+ excels in delivering superior performance and scalability. Its Xeon 2.2GHz CPU and 32GB memory ensure smooth and efficient operation, while the 108TB HDD storage and 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD provide ample space for data storage and fast access. With its advanced features, such as the Btrfs file system and DSM operating system, businesses have complete control and flexibility over their data management. The DS1621xs+ is the perfect solution for businesses that desire a powerful and customizable storage solution to meet their specific needs.

Buy or Not?

After considering the features and performance of the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS, our team highly recommends its purchase for businesses in need of a high-performance storage solution. With its powerful Xeon processor, ample memory, and extensive storage capacity, this NAS server is capable of handling intensive, multi-user workloads with ease. The inclusion of a 10GbE LAN port allows for fast and reliable data transfer, while the DSM operating system provides advanced features and easy management. Additionally, the Btrfs file system ensures efficient and secure storage for advanced LUN iSCSI service. The Synology DS1621xs+ NAS is suitable for a range of server roles, making it a versatile option for small and medium business environments. Overall, this storage solution offers the control and performance that businesses desire.

FAQ's

Let's address some frequently asked questions about the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS. First, what are the installation requirements for this storage solution? Second, what are the benefits of the DSM software that comes with it? Third, what server roles is it suitable for? Fourth, how does the Xeon CPU perform in terms of speed and efficiency? And finally, what expandability options are available for storage?

Installation Requirements for NAS

To ensure a successful installation of the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS, it is important for us to understand the specific requirements and guidelines. First and foremost, the NAS chassis comes in a sealed box and does not include hard drives or memory upgrades. These components need to be purchased separately and installed before the NAS can be used. The DS1621xs+ requires a Xeon D-1527 2.2GHz CPU and 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM memory. It also supports up to 6 SATA 3.5-inch HDDs for high-capacity storage. In terms of network connectivity, it has 2 RJ-45 1GbE LAN ports and 1 RJ-45 10GbE LAN port with link aggregation and failover support. Additionally, the NAS supports USB 3.2 and eSATA ports for external device connectivity. By following these installation requirements, you can have full control over setting up your Synology DS1621xs+ NAS.

Benefits of DSM Software

Continuing our exploration of the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS, let's delve into the many benefits of the DSM software. The DSM, or DiskStation Manager, is the operating system that powers the Synology NAS. It offers a wide range of features and capabilities that give users control over their storage solution. With the DSM software, users can easily manage their files, set up backups, and access their data from anywhere using the mobile app or web browser. The DSM also provides advanced security measures, such as encryption and firewall protection, to keep data safe. Additionally, the DSM allows for seamless integration with other applications and services, expanding the functionality of the NAS. Overall, the DSM software empowers users with the control and flexibility they need to optimize their storage solution.

Suitable Server Roles

As we explore the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS, it is important to understand the suitable server roles for this high-performance storage solution. This NAS is designed to cater to various server roles, such as iSCSI targets backup, file storage, email servers, and domain controllers. It is specifically suitable for small and medium business environments that have intensive, multi-user workloads. Whether you need a reliable backup solution, a centralized file storage system, or a powerful email server, the DS1621xs+ can handle it all. With its Xeon D-1527 4-Core CPU, 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM memory, and high-capacity storage options, this NAS is equipped to handle the demands of your server roles. So, whether you're a small business owner or an IT professional, the DS1621xs+ offers the performance and versatility you need.

Performance of Xeon CPU

Let's dive into the performance of the Xeon CPU in the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS. The Xeon D-1527 4-Core 2.2GHz CPU, with the ability to turbo up to 2.7GHz, delivers powerful processing capabilities for demanding workloads. With its 32GB DDR4 ECC SODIMM memory, it is capable of handling intensive, multi-user tasks with ease. The Xeon CPU ensures smooth operation and fast response times, allowing for efficient data processing and storage management. Whether you're running iSCSI targets backup, file storage, email servers, or domain controllers, the Xeon CPU provides the performance needed for these server roles. Its link aggregation and failover support, along with the Btrfs file system for advanced LUN iSCSI service, further enhance the overall performance and reliability of the NAS. With the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS, you have full control over your storage solution's performance.

Expandability Options for Storage

Now, let's explore the expandability options for storage in the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS. This high-performance storage solution offers several options to increase your storage capacity according to your needs. The DS1621xs+ comes equipped with six SATA 3.5" HDD bays, allowing you to install up to 108TB of high-capacity storage. Additionally, it features two eSATA ports and three USB 3.2 ports, providing the flexibility to connect external storage devices for even more storage expansion. Furthermore, the DS1621xs+ supports Synology Expansion Units, allowing you to easily scale up your storage by connecting additional DX517 expansion units. With these expandability options, you have full control over the growth of your storage capacity, ensuring that your data storage needs are met now and in the future.

Helpful Resources

We found several helpful resources for configuring and optimizing the Synology DS1621xs+ NAS server. Firstly, the Synology website provides comprehensive documentation, including user guides, tutorials, and FAQs, which cover a wide range of topics. These resources are helpful for beginners who want to get started quickly and for experienced users who want to explore advanced features. Additionally, the Synology Community Forum is a valuable resource for troubleshooting and gaining insights from other users who have encountered similar issues. The forum is actively monitored by Synology staff and community members, ensuring timely responses and solutions. Lastly, the Synology Knowledge Base offers in-depth articles on various aspects of NAS configuration and optimization, providing step-by-step instructions and best practices. Overall, these resources empower users to take control of their NAS and maximize its performance.