When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
5 Best VPNs for Synology NAS in 2024
Our experts have reviewed 53 VPN providers, which were put through extensive rounds of testing. To learn more about that process, here’s how we review VPNs, where we explain our criteria and our policy of being fully transparent.
Most Synology NAS users want to ensure secure file sharing across multiple platforms and devices. They are concerned about maintaining data integrity and confidentiality and also want to safeguard remote access to their devices to prevent unauthorized entry and protect their data.
Fortunately, a robust VPN can overcome all those hurdles. A VPN comes with many security features, like encryption, giving your data an extra layer of security. Plus, you'll get to secure access to your NAS even on public Wi-Fi, bypass geo-blocks, and even negate your ISP's intentional throttling.
In this article, we’ll reveal the 5 best VPNs for Synology NAS and teach you how to set one up. You’ll also learn why you need a VPN and how to choose the best option available. In the end, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions.
Best Synology NAS VPNs - Our Shortlist
- NordVPN – Our Best-Rated VPN for Synology NAS in 2024
- Surfshark – Speedy VPN for Synology for Easy Data Protection
- ExpressVPN – Powerful Synology NAS VPN with Total Obfuscation
- CyberGhost VPN – Secure VPN for Synology NAS with Specialized Servers
- Private Internet Access – Customizable Synology NAS VPN for High-End Users
How to Set Up a VPN on Synology NAS
Your first step is to sign up for a VPN that allows manual configuration on NAS devices. Then, you'll create a new OpenVPN connection using your VPN's specific instructions, like so:
- Sign up for a VPN compatible with Synology NAS (we recommend NordVPN).
- Select a server and download its OpenVPN config files from your VPN’s website.
- Boot your NAS device and log in.
- Turn off IPv6 on the Synology device.
- Open the Control Panel and navigate to Network.
- Under Network Interface, click on Create and then Create VPN profile.
- Choose OpenVPN (via importing a .opvn file) from the available options.
- Complete the fields that appear and upload the OpenVPN configuration file.
- Tick the boxes next to the following options:
- “Use default gateway on remote network.”
- “Reconnect when the VPN connection is lost.”
- “Allow other network devices to connect through this Synology server’s Internet connection.”
- Select the profile you just created and click on Connect.
- That’s it! You can now enjoy secure file sharing with your VPN for Synology NAS.
Each VPN provider has different instructions for setting up manual OpenVPN connections. We highly recommend that you follow the instructions in your respective VPN's installation guide.
The Best VPNs for Synology NAS in 2024
We strongly advise you to base your search on the criteria established in our guide on the best multiple-device VPN. First, the provider must be compatible with Synology devices. It should also have robust security, which includes a kill switch, split tunneling, port forwarding, strong protocols, encryption, a no-logs policy, and obfuscation.
The VPN you select needs to be fast with stable performance no matter where you are located or what you want to access. That’s why you need to choose a provider with a huge global server fleet spread across many countries. In addition, the VPN must be able to unblock censored or geo-blocked content.
Your chosen VPN should also allow numerous simultaneous connections and support various kinds of platforms, which will let you protect multiple devices at the same time. Lastly, you'll want an affordable provider with a generous money-back policy and 24/7 customer support.
Based on the criteria we just explained, here are the top 5 VPNs that work with Synology NAS:
1. NordVPN – Our Best-Rated VPN for Synology NAS in 2024
NordVPN is a highly advanced VPN provider that offers full support for Synology NAS devices, as well as an endless list of powerful features. With robust AES 256-bit and ChaCha20 encryption, a kill switch that cuts your Internet if the VPN fails, and an independently audited no-logs policy, NordVPN builds a strong security shield. Its Threat Protection adds an extra layer to secure your data.
The list of security features goes on with VPN protocols like NordLynx, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec. NordVPN also offers split tunneling that creates a unique tunnel for your online activities, port forwarding, and obfuscation on almost all servers to hide your VPN usage.
Furthermore, NordVPN will provide you with stellar speeds and consistent performance even across longer distances. This is possible in part because the provider has an extensive server network of 6,400+ servers in 111 countries. Even better, it also helps you unblock geo-restricted or censored content from anywhere.
With this VPN, you get 10 simultaneous connections. Due to this, you will be able to install NordVPN on Synology and other devices as well, like phones, computers, tablets, routers, and gaming consoles.
NordVPN is currently priced at $3.39/month (2-year subscription plan). Last but not least, this fantastic VPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows you to test its services and 24/7 customer support.
PROS
- Works with Synology devices.
- High-end security features.
- Provides OpenVPN protocol.
- Lightning-fast speeds.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
- 24/7 customer service.
CONS
- Pricey month-to-month plans.
2. Surfshark – Speedy VPN for Synology for Easy Data Protection
Surfshark is a user-friendly provider that works perfectly well with Synology NAS devices and comes with an independently audited no-logs policy that guarantees the VPN won’t share your confidential data with third parties. It also has robust AES 256-bit and ChaCha20 encryption and a reliable kill switch, so expect highly protected file sharing.
Surfshark provides obfuscation on all its servers, as well as strong VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec that establish fast data transmission. It also offers split tunneling to optimize VPN usage and port forwarding to redirect communication requests and port number combinations from one address to another.
Moreover, Surfshark has a vast server range, which consists of 3,200+ servers across 100 countries. This allows it to unblock censored and geo-restricted content while providing blazing speeds and dependable performance regardless of your location, as explained in our full analysis of Surfshark.
One of the best things is that Surfshark has unlimited simultaneous connections, letting you utilize the VPN on NAS devices, phones, computers, tablets, and gaming consoles at the same time.
You can get started for only $2.19/month (2-year plan). Surfshark also provides a full refund with its 30-day money-back guarantee if you decide it doesn’t work for you and reliable customer support that helps you resolve any issue.
PROS
- Compatible with Synology NAS devices.
- Independently audited no-logs policy.
- Excellent speeds and performance.
- Robust VPN protocols.
- 30-day refund policy.
- 24/7 live chat support.
CONS
- Slower initial connection times.
3. ExpressVPN – Powerful Synology NAS VPN with Total Obfuscation
ExpressVPN is a hugely impressive VPN provider with next-level privacy and full support for Synology's NAS platforms. More precisely, you will benefit from strong AES 256-bit and WolfSSL encryption, a reliable kill switch across all its supported platforms, and an independently audited no-logs policy.
Other ExpressVPN security practices that you will benefit from are automatic obfuscation on every server and split tunneling that creates a unique tunnel for specific traffic. Plus, it offers port forwarding and industry-leading VPN protocols, such as its proprietary Lightway, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec.
ExpressVPN has always been known for its smooth performance. It has ultra-fast speeds and reliable performance because of the huge server range, which includes thousands of servers in 105 countries. Due to this, you will be able to access all popular censored and geo-restricted platforms, including streaming services and censored websites.
This provider also allows 8 simultaneous connections that help you set up ExpressVPN on Synology NAS, phones, computers, gaming consoles, and tablets.
This VPN's lowest price is $6.67/month (annual plan). Thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test it before committing fully. ExpressVPN's 24/7 customer support is also a huge benefit, and you'll also get email support, installation guides, all kinds of tutorials, and more.
PROS
- Works seamlessly with Synology NAS.
- Servers in 105 countries.
- Strong unblocking abilities.
- Unique Lightway protocol.
- 30-day money-back policy.
- 24/7 live chat support.
CONS
- On the pricier side.
4. CyberGhost VPN – Secure VPN for Synology NAS with Specialized Servers
CyberGhost is one of the longest-standing VPN brands. It’s fully compatible with Synology NAS devices, allowing you to configure a manual OpenVPN connection quite easily. It also has AES 256-bit and ChaCha20 encryption, a kill switch to prevent data leaks, and a no-logs policy that has been independently audited.
CyberGhost offers a port forwarding feature, split tunneling to route your traffic selectively, and robust VPN protocols, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec. Therefore, you will enjoy fast and secure data transmission. Unfortunately, this provider lacks obfuscated servers.
This VPN delivers medium-fast speeds and consistent performance. If you're looking to maximize your speed, we recommend sticking to nearby VPN locations primarily. CyberGhost makes up for this with its thousands of servers across 100 countries. This allows it to unblock geo-restricted and censored content effortlessly.
What’s more, CyberGhost has 7 simultaneous connections, which allows you to use it on NAS devices, phones, computers, tablets, and gaming consoles. To learn how to get started, visit our central guide on how to use CyberGhost VPN on Synology.
You'll also love this VPN's price - only $2.03/month (2-year plan). Finally, you will benefit from its 45-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 customer support. Expect other types of customer support resources as well, including email support, installation guides, and more.
PROS
- Compatible with Synology NAS.
- Reliable port forwarding.
- Sizable server network.
- Unblocks geo-restricted sites.
- 45-day refund period.
- 24/7 live chat support.
CONS
- No support for obfuscation.
- Medium-fast connection speeds.
5. Private Internet Access – Customizable Synology NAS VPN for High-End Users
Private Internet Access (PIA) also works with Synology NAS without any issues. It also has robust security features, such as a no-logs policy audited by a third party, military-grade AES 128/256-bit and ChaCha20 encryption, and a powerful kill switch. As you can see, this VPN allows you to choose a custom level of encryption, which you'll hardly find elsewhere.
You will also get obfuscation on all of its servers, port forwarding that redirects your communication requests, split tunneling, and VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec. PIA is highly customizable, allowing you to choose between different encryption levels to prioritize security over speed or vice versa.
This VPN delivers decent speeds and pretty stable performance. You can reach faster speeds if you take your time to optimize PIA's level of security. Plus, it has an extensive server fleet, with thousands of servers in 90+ countries. Due to this, it unblocks geo-restricted and censored content from plenty of countries around the world.
PIA stands out because it offers unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing you to use it on various devices at the same time, such as phones, computers, tablets, and gaming consoles.
Right now, you can sign up for this capable VPN for only $2.03/month (2-year plan). PIA also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, as well as knowledgeable 24/7 customer support.
PROS
- Works for Synology NAS protection.
- Unlimited simultaneous connections.
- Port forwarding feature.
- Secure OpenVPN protocol.
- 30-day money-back period.
- 24/7 customer service.
CONS
- Requires some tinkering.
- Not the fastest option.
Do You Need a VPN for Synology NAS?
Using a VPN on your Synology NAS will help you achieve a much higher level of digital security. You'll also hide your browsing history, bypass bandwidth throttling, and more. Let's go over everything:
- Maximize Your Digital Security – Hackers can use NAS devices to gain access to your personal data. Luckily, a reliable VPN will help you protect your confidential data from even the most advanced hackers and various cyber threats.
- Access Geo-Blocked Services – Using a VPN will also help you unblock services and content that are geo-restricted in the region where you’re located, such as gambling sites, messaging platforms, torrent websites, and more.
- Secure File Sharing – Synology does have its own encryption, but hackers can still access your files when you share them with other users. So, look for a VPN with additional features like a kill switch that will prevent data leaks. A kill switch works by cutting your Internet if it detects an issue with your connection to the VPN server.
- Safe Remote Access – A VPN supports remote access to your Synology NAS device by preventing unauthorized access to your confidential files. The best VPNs even have port forwarding that will redirect communication requests from one address to another.
- Make Your Browsing Activity Invisible – Some governments and ISPs, as well as hackers, may track your online activities. So, if you want to avoid any surveillance or possible associated issues, it’s best to go for a VPN that will make your browsing activities undetectable.
- Sidestep Bandwidth Throttling – Excessive data usage can cause your ISP to throttle your bandwidth and slow down your connections. Fortunately, a VPN with encryption will help you make your traffic and data use undetectable to prevent such issues.
- Fight Against Price Discrimination - By switching your virtual location to a region with lower prices, you'll see better deals when shopping online. As such, VPNs can be quite valuable for saving money on digital and physical goods.
How to Find the Best Synology NAS VPN?
Search for a provider with strong security and privacy features, full support for Synology NAS, fast speeds, and an audited no-logs policy. Here is a detailed list of everything you should consider:
- Full Support for Synology NAS – In order to install a VPN on Synology NAS devices, you should make sure the provider works with such devices.
- High-End VPN Features – As the VPN needs to ensure safe file sharing, go for a provider that has advanced features like a reliable kill switch, port forwarding, split tunneling, and ad blocking.
- Trustworthy No-Logs Policy – The best VPN for Synology NAS devices should have an audited no-logs policy that guarantees the provider won’t collect, store, or share your confidential data.
- Proven Protocols and Encryption – In order to achieve top-notch security, you need a VPN with encryption that will obscure your traffic and strong VPN protocols for fast transmission of data.
- Stable and Fast Performance – Your chosen VPN must have fast speeds and consistent performance so that you don’t encounter interruptions during file transfers.
- Server Network Scope – The bigger the server network size, the better speeds you’ll get. Also, you will be able to choose the server that works best for you.
- Ability to Unblock Censored/Geo-Restricted Content – A Synology NAS VPN will help you unblock geo-restricted or censored content, such as streaming, torrenting, or gambling sites.
- Concurrent Connections – Always go for a VPN that allows numerous connections so you can use the VPN on more devices at the same time.
- Wallet-Friendly Price - There's no reason to overpay for a VPN. Look for one that offers steep discounts on its long-term plans, which also usually come with some extras.
- Lengthy Money-Back Guarantee – To make sure that a VPN is right for you, choose one that has a money-back policy and allows you to test it for a while.
- Dependable Customer Support – Using a VPN with 24/7 customer support is a must so you can solve any issue effortlessly.
Final Thoughts
Synology NAS devices help you store, share, and access your data from anywhere. Unfortunately, these devices are very attractive to hackers, so users fear for their online security and privacy. They also want to prevent unauthorized remote access. Due to this, it’s best to use a reliable VPN.
You'll get the best protection with NordVPN, which supports Synology's devices seamlessly and has features that facilitate safe file sharing and restrict unauthorized access to your files. It's the best VPN for Synology NAS overall because you'll able to protect your data and access it remotely without ever worrying about your privacy.
That’s all for our guide on picking and using a VPN on compatible Synology devices. If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comment section below. Thank you for reading!
