Which UPS Systems Are Compatible with Synology NAS Drives?

Protect Your Synology NAS with a Compatible UPS

A Synology Network Attached Storage (NAS) system is designed to store, manage and protect important data. However, unexpected power cuts, electrical interruptions and voltage fluctuations can interrupt normal operation and potentially lead to data corruption or system instability.

A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) provides temporary battery backup during a power failure, giving your Synology NAS time to enter a safe shutdown mode and helping to protect your stored data.

Many UPS systems from leading manufacturers, including APC, CyberPower and other established brands, can be used with Synology NAS devices. For the best results, we recommend selecting a UPS with a compatible USB or supported network communication interface.
Which UPS Brands Are Compatible?

The following manufacturers offer UPS ranges that may be suitable for Synology NAS systems. Compatibility depends on the specific UPS model, your NAS model and the communication method used.

1. APC by Schneider Electric

APC offers a wide selection of UPS systems suitable for home users, small businesses and professional IT environments.

Popular product families to investigate include:

APC Back-UPS

APC Back-UPS Pro

APC Smart-UPS

Many models provide USB communication, allowing a compatible Synology NAS to monitor battery status and respond automatically to a power failure.

2. CyberPower

CyberPower provides UPS systems for home offices, business networks and server environments.

Depending on the model, features may include:

USB connectivity for NAS monitoring.

Automatic shutdown signalling.

Battery backup and surge protection.

Network management options on selected professional models.

3. Other UPS Manufacturers

Other manufacturers may also offer suitable products. However, the exact model should be checked against Synology’s official compatibility information before purchase.

Important: Brand compatibility alone does not guarantee that every model in a manufacturer’s range will work with every Synology NAS.
How Does a UPS Work with a Synology NAS?

When a compatible UPS is connected and configured correctly, the NAS can monitor the UPS and respond when mains power is lost.

The typical process is:

Normal operation: The NAS and other connected equipment receive power from the UPS.

Power failure: The UPS switches to battery power.

Status communication: The UPS reports its power status to the NAS through a supported USB or network connection.

Safe shutdown: If the outage continues, the NAS enters its configured safe mode or standby state before the battery is exhausted.

This helps reduce the risk of unexpected shutdowns and protects the integrity of stored data.
What Should You Look for When Choosing a UPS?

When selecting a UPS for your Synology NAS, consider the following features.

USB communication

A UPS with a supported USB data connection is often a straightforward choice for a single NAS. The USB data cable must connect directly to a supported USB port on the NAS; Synology does not support connecting the UPS through a USB hub.

Sufficient power capacity

Choose a UPS with enough wattage and VA capacity to support your NAS, hard drives and any additional equipment you intend to protect. Allow for the power requirements of devices such as network switches and routers if they also need backup power.

Adequate battery runtime

The battery should provide sufficient time for your equipment to shut down safely. Runtime depends on the UPS battery capacity, the connected load and battery condition.

Automatic shutdown support

Confirm that the UPS can communicate its battery status to your Synology NAS and that the NAS can initiate its configured shutdown procedure.

Network UPS support

If you operate multiple compatible Synology systems, certain configurations allow one NAS to communicate with the UPS and share UPS status with other NAS devices on the network. The network equipment required for this communication must also remain powered during an outage.
How to Check Synology UPS Compatibility

Synology maintains an official compatibility database containing tested and vendor-recommended UPS models.

To check whether a particular UPS is suitable:

Visit the official Synology Compatibility List.

Select your Synology NAS model.

Choose the UPS category.

Search for the exact UPS manufacturer and model number.

Review the listed compatibility information before purchasing.

Synology distinguishes between products it has tested and products recommended by vendors. Compatibility listings may change as products, firmware and hardware are updated.
Frequently Asked Questions

Will any UPS work with a Synology NAS?

No. Although some UPS units may provide battery backup, automatic NAS monitoring and safe shutdown require a supported communication method. Always check the exact model.

Do I need a USB connection?

A USB-connected UPS is a common option for a single NAS. Certain Synology systems also support compatible network-connected or SNMP UPS configurations. Check the capabilities of your specific NAS and UPS.

Can one UPS protect more than one Synology NAS?

Yes, in supported configurations. Synology’s Network UPS Server feature allows a NAS connected to a UPS to share UPS status with permitted client devices. The network infrastructure must also have suitable battery backup.

Will a UPS protect my NAS against every electrical problem?

No. A UPS can help protect against power interruptions and, depending on the model, certain electrical disturbances. It does not replace regular backups, appropriate surge protection or good electrical installation practices.

How often should I check the UPS?

Periodically inspect the battery condition, review the UPS status reported by the NAS and test the shutdown procedure. Replace batteries in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Our Recommendation

For most home and small-business Synology NAS installations, a UPS with supported USB communication, suitable battery capacity and automatic shutdown functionality is a sensible starting point.

For larger installations or multiple NAS systems, consider a higher-capacity UPS or a supported network-managed solution.

Before purchasing, always verify the exact UPS model against the official Synology compatibility list. This helps ensure the NAS can communicate correctly with the UPS and use its battery backup effectively.

For further information, visit the Synology Compatibility List or the Synology UPS Configuration Guide.