User Transitions from Synology to TrueNAS, Enhances Storage Options

A home user has successfully transitioned from a Synology NAS to TrueNAS, stating it as the best storage decision to date. This change comes after a series of frustrations with Synology’s operating system, known as DSM, which has undergone significant alterations that limited user freedom.

Initially, the individual relied on Synology devices for storage needs, benefiting from the user-friendly interface and ease of setup. Upgrading to a more powerful CPU enabled the user to handle self-hosted applications effectively. However, as Synology’s business model evolved, various features began to disappear, prompting the search for alternatives. After experimenting with several open-source NAS operating systems, the user settled on TrueNAS Scale, run within the Proxmox virtualization platform.

Why TrueNAS Became the Preferred Choice

The decision to switch was driven by a desire to escape vendor lock-in and regain control over hardware and software. The user expressed dissatisfaction with Synology’s restrictions on compatible drives and the limitations imposed on non-enterprise customers. In contrast, TrueNAS offers flexibility, allowing the use of a wide range of hardware without stringent controls.

Another appealing feature of TrueNAS is its adoption of the ZFS file system, which brings self-healing capabilities, snapshots, and extensive NAS-specific functions. The adaptability of TrueNAS allows users to utilize existing drives and easily transfer ZFS pools to other devices running the same system or any compatible Linux distribution. This contrasts sharply with the limitations of Synology, where the user was restricted to specific configurations, particularly with NVMe drives.

The migration process involved careful planning and execution. The user navigated the complexities of passing through PCIe controllers and HBAs to the TrueNAS virtual machine within Proxmox. This setup facilitates seamless backups and system restoration, enhancing overall data management capabilities.

Future Prospects and Enhanced Functionality

With TrueNAS now in place, the user enjoys a customizable NAS environment that accommodates various applications without compromising performance. The current TrueNAS application store features over 281 apps, providing alternatives to tools previously used on Synology.

Despite the initial reluctance associated with transferring vast amounts of data, the transition has proven beneficial, alleviating concerns about future upgrades. The user now anticipates building a rackmount server to further optimize data storage and management while continuing to utilize TrueNAS for its robust storage capabilities.

Reflecting on the time spent with Synology, the user acknowledges its initial advantages but recognizes that the market has evolved. With growing technical proficiency and changing storage needs, the shift to TrueNAS represents a significant step towards enhanced data management and control over personal technology resources.