How to upgrade the RAM in Synology DS218+
It’s possible to extract, replace, and upgrade the RAM inside the Synology DS218+. The process only requires a few steps, made easy by the intuitive design of the Network Attached Storage device. You can go from just 2GB of system memory all the way up to a colossal 10GB.
Products Used In This Guide
How to upgrade your DS218+ RAM
- Take out the two hard drive bays.
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The free RAM module slot is located on the side where the power button is.
Source: Windows Central
- Take out the newly purchased RAM module from its packaging.
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Carefully insert the module into the slot, making sure it’s the right way up. Match the notch to that on the module.
Source: Windows Central
- Re-insert the hard drive bays.
- Open up Synology Assistant.
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Click the cog icon in the top-right.
Source: Windows Central
- Enable “Memory test”.
- Right-click the DS218+ on the list to start the memory test.
You will now be able to take full advantage of 10GB of RAM. The official word from Synology is only a 4GB module can be installed (for a total of 6GB), but 10GB seems to work just fine.
If you want to go all out and hit 16GB of RAM, it’s possible to replace the original 2GB module, but you need to take apart the NAS completely and isn’t recommended unless you genuinely need the extra memory. This is where the screwdriver kit comes handy since you’ll need to unscrew a bunch of parts.
Our top equipment picks
These are the mandatory or core equipment selections. Optional or ancillary equipment will follow.
RAM
Crucial 8GB RAM
Providing five times the amount of RAM already installed in the DS218+, this RAM module is a must-have for any owner looking to upgrade.
Crucial is one of the more reputable brands when it comes to system memory. At less than $60 for an additional 8GB of RAM, it’s worth paying if you experience sluggish performance.
The Crucial module we’ve selected is backed by more than 8,000 positive reviews on Amazon. This RAM module is rated to run a little slower than the 2GB module already installed, but that’s fine since we’re saving money here, and the differences aren’t major at all. The 2GB stick runs at 1866MHz, while our Crucial upgrade is rated for 1600MHz.
Additional Equipment
You likely won’t need these tools, but if you don’t frequently take apart PCs or other small devices, you’ll need to invest in a screwdriver set to make your life much easier.
DEWALT 54-piece screwdriver kit ($17 at Amazon)
This screwdriver kit has everything you need to install the additional 8GB RAM module inside the DS218+ (to bring it up to 16GB), as well as countless other heads for other devices you may need to tinker with at a later date.
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