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Yes, you can use a Synology NAS with PoE cameras by connecting them via a PoE switch or injector, enabling seamless recording and centralized storage through Synology’s Surveillance Station. This setup delivers reliable, scalable surveillance with support for hundreds of camera models, remote access, and advanced AI-powered analytics—all managed directly from your NAS.
Can I Use a Synology NAS With PoE Camera? A Complete Guide
Yes, you can absolutely use a Synology NAS with a PoE camera, and it’s one of the most efficient and scalable ways to build a professional-grade surveillance system. A Synology NAS (Network Attached Storage) serves as a powerful central hub for storing, managing, and accessing video footage from Power over Ethernet (PoE) cameras. By integrating Synology’s Surveillance Station software with PoE cameras, users gain a reliable, secure, and feature-rich security solution without the need for additional DVRs or cloud subscriptions. Whether you’re setting up a home security network or a large business surveillance system, pairing a Synology NAS with PoE cameras is not only possible—it’s highly recommended.
This guide dives into how to make the most of this combination, covering compatibility, setup, optimization, and practical tips to ensure seamless operation. From camera models to network configuration, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create a robust surveillance ecosystem using your Synology NAS and PoE cameras.
How Do I Set Up and Use a Synology NAS With PoE Cameras?
Integrating a Synology NAS with PoE camera systems involves three core components: compatible hardware, proper network infrastructure, and Synology’s Surveillance Station software. First, ensure your Synology NAS model supports Surveillance Station (most do, but check the official compatibility list). Models like the DS920+, DS423+, or higher-end RackStation units are ideal due to their processing power and storage scalability.
Next, select ONVIF-compliant PoE cameras. Popular brands like Hikvision, Axis, Reolink, and even Synology’s own BC500 or TC500 cameras work seamlessly with Surveillance Station. These cameras receive both data and power through a single Ethernet cable, simplifying installation—especially in locations without nearby power outlets. Use a managed PoE switch (such as a Synology or Netgear model) to connect your cameras. This switch powers the cameras and connects them to the same local network as your NAS, ensuring low latency and stable performance.
Once physically connected, log into your Synology NAS and install Surveillance Station from the Package Center. Launch the application and use the “Add Camera” wizard to detect your PoE cameras on the network. Surveillance Station automatically identifies ONVIF and RTSP-compatible devices, allowing you to configure recording schedules, motion detection, alerts, and user permissions. You can set continuous recording, event-based recording, or a mix of both to optimize storage usage.
For optimal performance, allocate at least 100–200 MB of storage per camera per hour of recording, depending on resolution (e.g., 1080p vs. 4K). Use Synology’s Smart Recycle feature to automatically delete older footage when storage reaches capacity. To enhance security, enable two-factor authentication, set up user roles, and restrict remote access to trusted IPs. For remote viewing, use the Surveillance Station mobile app (available on iOS and Android), which lets you monitor live feeds and playback recordings from anywhere.
Practical Tip: Use VLANs to isolate your surveillance network from general traffic, improving security and reducing bandwidth congestion. Also, consider enabling H.265+ video compression if your cameras support it—this can reduce storage needs by up to 70% without sacrificing image quality.
If you plan to scale beyond 16–24 cameras, consider using a Surveillance Station License Pack (free for up to two cameras; additional licenses required for more). Synology also supports failover servers and high-availability clusters for mission-critical environments.
For advanced users, integrate with third-party tools like Home Assistant or use AI-based analytics (available on newer NAS models) for facial recognition, people counting, or license plate detection—features that turn your PoE camera system into a smart security solution.
In conclusion, using a Synology NAS with PoE camera systems delivers a powerful, flexible, and future-proof surveillance setup. With easy setup, robust software, and excellent hardware compatibility, this combination is ideal for both beginners and advanced users. Whether securing your home, office, or retail space, the integration of PoE cameras with a Synology NAS ensures reliable recording, remote access, and long-term scalability—all while maintaining full control over your data. Invest in quality hardware, follow best practices in network design, and unlock the full potential of your surveillance system today.