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How to Set Up ExpressVPN on Synology NAS

Last updated November 12, 2024
Written by:
Novak Bozovic
Novak Bozovic
Tech & VPN Content Specialist

You can set up ExpressVPN on your Synology NAS device by configuring the VPN manually. That means you'll need to create an OpenVPN connection to a specific VPN server, which will allow your NAS device to encrypt its incoming and outgoing data traffic.

We'll also note that ExpressVPN doesn’t provide a list of supported Synology NAS devices. Still, the procedure should work on any Synology NAS that supports OpenVPN connections. We recommend checking your device’s manual before you proceed.

In this article, we'll teach you how to set up ExpressVPN on Synology NAS with comprehensive instructions.

How to Set Up ExpressVPN on Synology NAS Using OpenVPN

To set up ExpressVPN on your Synology NAS device, you'll have to use your device's built-in tools to configure the VPN. Here's what you need to do.

1. Sign up for ExpressVPN using your computer and any Web browser.

2. After subscribing, click 'My Account' using the top-placed main menu on ExpressVPN's website.

3. Provide your credentials to access your ExpressVPN dashboard.

Signing In to ExpressVPN Website

4. Go to Set Up Other Devices > Manual Configuration.

5. Check your OpenVPN username and password on the right.

6. Pick a VPN server and download its OVPN file.

ExpressVPN Online Dashboard View for OpenVPN Manual Configuration

7. Access your Synology NAS device and open its Control Panel.

8. Go to Network Interface > LAN > Edit, pick 'IPv6,' and set it to 'OFF.'

Editing Web Connections on Synology NAS
Disabling IPv6 on Synology NAS

9. Click 'OK' to apply the changes, then restart your Synology.

10. Now, go to Control Panel > Network > Network Interface > Create > Create VPN Profile.

Creating New VPN Profile on Synology NAS

11. Pick 'OpenVPN (.ovpn file)' and click 'Next.'

First Installation Step of OpenVPN ExpressVPN on Synology

12. Next, you’ll see the 'General Settings' screen, where you need to enter the following info.

General VPN Settings Synology NAS

13. Click 'Next,' and the 'Advanced Settings' screen will appear.

14. Check the box next to 'Use default gateway on remote network.'

15. Do the same with the 'Reconnect when the VPN connection is lost' box.

16. Click on 'Apply' when done.

Advanced Settings VPN Setup on Synology NAS

17. To connect, go to Control Panel > Network > Network Interface.

18. You should see your newly created VPN connection on the right-hand side.

Steps to Connect to VPN on Synology NAS

19. Select your new VPN profile and click 'Connect.'

20. Make sure to check for a 'Connected' label below the VPN’s name.

Status Showing Connected VPN on Synology NAS

21. To disconnect at any moment, click the 'Disconnect' button.

Disconnect VPN Server on Synology NAS

Final Thoughts

Thanks to this VPN's brilliantly designed online dashboard, obtaining the required OVPN files and setting up ExpressVPN on a Synology NAS is a piece of cake. As you know by now, it takes only a few minutes to ensure your NAS's incoming and outgoing traffic is kept within a secure tunnel.

That said, you probably have more gadgets that could benefit from this VPN. Don't forget that ExpressVPN works on many other devices, so why not take advantage of that? Check our central guide on how to set up ExpressVPN across all its supported devices.

That would be all about setting up ExpressVPN on your Synology NAS device. If you have any questions for us, make sure to post your comment below. Lastly, thank you for reading!



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