Software

As we noted in our DS1815+ review, Synology didn't include a software disc in the bundle to make sure you download the latest versions of all compatible software packages from their Download Center. The latter hosts all with the DS1515+ compatible software packages, and we recommend you download and install all of them since they provide a host of useful features.


The Synology Assistant will make finding the DS1515+'s IP address on your network a breeze. This app will also assist you in configuring everything if need be.


The Data Replication application allows you to easily and quickly backup and restore files.


The Synology Cloud Station software allows you to synchronize files between your NAS and your workstation, or all client PCs.

Initial Setup

If you don't want to install Synology Assistant, but need to start the initial setup procedure, you will only have to open "find.synology.com" on a client PC after you have installed the hardware (HDDs) and connected all the cables (power and LAN). Type in "diskstation:5000" instead if your PC isn't connected to the Internet.


Setting the NAS up through Synology's Web Assistant is a piece of cake, even for inexperienced users.


You will be asked to choose an updating option after logging into DSM for the first time. As you can see in the screenshot above, we picked the first option and advice you to do the same. There was an available DSM update we also made a point of installing—its installation was fast and easy.


The DSM login page looks plain, but provides the date and a weather forecast based on your location. You will have to enter your credentials to log into the administrative interface.

Web Interface

You will be greeted by a some useful tips the first time you log into DSM. DSM is a windowed operation system, so it includes icons, widgets, and a taskbar.


The DSM taskbar hides a lot of functionality:
1) Show Desktop: Minimizes all open applications and packages.
2) Main Menu: View and open applications and packages installed on the NAS. You can also click and drag to create desktop shortcuts.
3) Open applications:

• Click an icon to show or hide its window on the desktop.
• Right-click the icon and pick from the menu to manage the application's window (Maximize, Minimize, Restore, and Close) or its taskbar icon (Pin to Taskbar and Unpin from Taskbar).

4) Upload Queue: The queue appears when you upload files to the Synology NAS. Click on it to see more details, like progress and upload speed.
5) Notifications: Displays notifications, like errors, status updates, and package installation notifications.
6) Options: Shutdown, Restart, Logout, or Modify Personal Account options can be found here.
7) Search: Quickly find specific applications, packages, or DSM Help articles.
8) Widgets: Show or hide widgets.
9) Pilot View: See a preview of all open applications and packages.


DSM supports widgets and you can select which of them to show or hide.


DSM's Start button reveals the main menu and is in the top-right corner, on the taskbar. Next to it is an icon for each open application. You can add shortcuts of your favorite applications to the desktop by dragging their icons from the main menu to the desktop. You can also remove shortcuts by right-clicking on them and picking the Remove Shortcut option.


The search box will help you find an OS option or function.


The Admin options allow you to manage personal account options, like changing the password, enabling 2-step verification, checking on account activity, etc.