What are the steps to set up a secure backup system using a Synology DS220j and Hyper Backup to external drives?

Backups are the cornerstone of data security. You might think you'll never need them until the day comes when your computer crashes, your files are corrupted, or you fall victim to a ransomware attack. Suddenly, that backup you've been putting off seems worth its weight in gold. In this article, we will guide you on how to set up a secure backup system using a Synology DS220j NAS and Hyper Backup to external drives.

Understanding the Importance of Backups

Before we get started on how to set your backups, let's first understand why it's necessary. The digital age has made things more convenient, but it also means that important data is often only stored in one place: your computer. If something goes wrong, your files, photos, and videos could be gone in an instant, leaving you with nothing.

A backup is a copy of your data that is stored separately from the original. This means that even if your computer's hard drive fails, or if a virus destroys your files, you still have a copy of your data that you can restore.

NAS (Network Attached Storage) devices like the Synology DS220j act as a personal cloud service, letting you access your files anytime, from anywhere, while also providing the means for secure backups. Hyper Backup, on the other hand, is a tool developed by Synology that allows the NAS to backup your data to external drives, ensuring you always have a backup of your data.

Setting Up Your Synology DS220j

To get started with your Synology DS220j, first, you need to connect it to your network and initialize it. Begin by connecting the NAS to a power source and your router, then press the power button to boot it up.

Next, you will need to access the Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) to configure your NAS. The DSM is the operating system that powers every Synology NAS. Open a web browser and type "find.synology.com" into the address bar. This will take you to the DSM setup wizard, where you can set up your new system.

During the initial setup process, you'll have to choose a name for your NAS, input a username and password, and choose the update settings for the device. Remember to select a strong password to ensure the security of your NAS.

Backing Up Your Data to The NAS

Once your Synology DS220j is set up and ready, it's time to start backing up your data to the NAS. This can be done through the File Station application, which allows you to manage and organize your files.

To back up your data, simply click and drag the files or folders you want to back up from your computer's file system to the File Station interface. Alternatively, you can click on the "Upload" button in the File Station toolbar, select the files or folders you want to upload, and click "Open".

For users of the macOS operating system, you can use the Time Machine service to automatically backup your Mac to your Synology NAS. Simply go to System Preferences on your Mac, click on Time Machine, click "Select Backup Disk", then select your Synology NAS from the list of available disks.

Using Hyper Backup to Backup to External Drives

With your data now on the NAS, it's time to set up a second layer of backup using the Hyper Backup application. Hyper Backup allows you to backup your NAS data to an external drive, providing an extra layer of protection for your data.

To set up Hyper Backup, you first need to connect an external drive to the USB port on your Synology DS220j. Then, open the Hyper Backup application on your NAS and click on the "+" button to create a new backup task. Follow the prompts to choose the external drive as the backup destination, select the folders you want to back up, and set a backup schedule.

Maintaining Your Backup System

Setting up your backup system is only the first step. For your backup system to be effective, it's crucial to maintain it regularly. This includes regularly checking that your backups are successfully completing, and ensuring that your NAS and Hyper Backup are updated to the latest versions. Occasionally, you will want to test your backups by restoring a file to ensure everything is working as it should.

Backing up your data might seem like a daunting task, but with the Synology DS220j and Hyper Backup, you can set up a secure backup system without needing expert knowledge in IT. With your backup system in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that your data is safe and accessible whenever you need it.

Optimizing Your Backup System

In order to maximize the efficiency and security of your backup system, it's critical to optimize it periodically. This can be achieved through a combination of regular updates, data management, and added security measures.

Firstly, always ensure that your Synology NAS operating system, Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM), and Hyper Backup are up-to-date. Regular updates will guarantee that you are benefiting from the latest features, security patches, and bug fixes. To update your software, log in to your DSM, go to Control Panel, and click on Update & Restore. Here, you can install the latest updates as they become available.

Next, manage your data effectively. You may want to review and organize the content stored on your backup system periodically. This will not only make it easier for you to locate and restore lost files, but it will also ensure that your backup system is not unnecessarily cluttered with redundant data. Remember, the key aim of a backup system is to secure critical data. Keeping your system clutter-free will reduce the time needed for backup operations and make it more efficient.

Finally, consider adding an extra layer of security to your backup system. Encryption is a powerful way to protect your data from unauthorized access. To encrypt your backups, navigate to the settings of your Hyper Backup, select the backup task, and then check the encryption option. You will be prompted to create a password. This password will be required when you want to restore the encrypted backup.

In the age of digital data, having a sound backup system is not a choice but a necessity. The Synology DS220j NAS coupled with Hyper Backup offers a straightforward yet robust solution to set up a secure data backup system on external drives.

By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you will not only have a solid backup plan in place but also the necessary knowledge to manage and optimize it. Regular maintenance, software updates, efficient data management, and added security measures are all essential aspects of ensuring that your backup system functions optimally.

Remember, the effort you put into creating a secure backup system today could prevent immense loss tomorrow. So, install the app, create an account, and begin your journey of securing your digital assets. In the world of data, it's better to be safe than sorry.

Join the ongoing discussions on general Synology topics, share your experiences, and learn more from the community on our Synology discussions platform. Happy backing up!