Best Synology NAS VPN for 2026
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A Synology NAS gives you a central place to store, organize, and access your files from anywhere on your network, making it a practical solution for homes and small offices. While it's highly secure and encrypts stored data with the industry-standard AES-256 encryption algorithm, it doesn't protect your files during transfer. This leaves a door wide open for malicious actors to intercept sensitive information – using a VPN closes that door.
A VPN encrypts your internet connection and routes your traffic through a secure server, thus adding a layer of protection during transfers against outside interference. It can also help you sidestep regional restrictions and strengthen your overall privacy. To help you find the best Synology NAS VPN, I tested numerous VPNs before narrowing it down to the top 5 VPNs for Synology NAS in 2026.
Top 5 best Synology NAS VPNs in 2026
- NordVPN – best VPN for Synology NAS in 2026 overall
- Surfshark – budget-friendly Synology NAS VPN
- IPVanish – Synology NAS-compatible VPN with fast speeds
- ExpressVPN – secure Synology NAS VPN with swift speeds
- CyberGhost – privacy-focused Synology NAS VPN with leak protection
📢 LIMITED OFFER: Get 75% OFF NordVPN + 3 months free
Why you need to use a VPN for Synology NAS
Although Synology NAS uses AES 256-bit encryption for stored files, risks can emerge when the files are transferred from or to your device, as then, they are unprotected.
Synology has also issued a security advisory alerting users to increased brute-force assaults on its products. So, whichever model of Synology you’d be using, the best VPN should be an essential part of your security efforts. There are multiple reasons why you should use a VPN for Synology:
- Extra layer of security. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, keeping your online activities safe from malicious hackers and snoopers. Using one with Synology adds extra security, especially on public networks.
- IP masking for privacy. A VPN hides your IP address and location, keeping your online activities private and preventing tracking by third parties.
- Remote access. A VPN allows remote access to your Synology NAS from anywhere, ensuring secure file access from home or work.
- Secure file sharing. VPNs offer a secure method to share files and data, particularly sensitive information, ensuring encryption and protection against interception or theft.
- Avoiding bandwidth throttling. Some ISPs may throttle your bandwidth based on usage. By encrypting your internet traffic with a VPN, it's harder for ISPs to detect your data type, helping you avoid throttling and maintain a stable connection.
Best VPNs for Synology NAS – detailed list
Together with the research team, I thoroughly reviewed 41 of VPN providers and picked the best ones that are highly compatible with Synology NAS and excel in security, speeds, privacy, and overall performance. Check out the detailed descriptions below.
1. NordVPN – overall best VPN for Synology NAS
| Server fleet: | 9,500+ servers in 149 countries |
| Simultaneous connections: | 10 |
| Compatible with: | Synology NAS, QNAP NAS, FreeNAS, routers, Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and more |
| Current deal: | Get 75% OFF NordVPN + 3 months free |
Synology NAS protects files with AES 256-bit encryption, but vulnerabilities can emerge during transfers, leaving them unprotected. NordVPN is the best VPN for Synology NAS, offering compatibility and detailed setup tutorials for various protocols, including Synology devices and routers, making it a high-performing choice.
NordVPN is also compatible with routers and is one of the best-performing services. It also offers advanced security with AES-256 encryption, a reliable kill switch, RAM-only servers, and undeniable privacy, as its no-logs policy has been independently audited 6 times. There’s also a Threat Protection feature, which makes sure your storage and other devices are threat-proof.
During our NordVPN tests of performance and speeds, the provider has shown great speeds. NordVPN offers NordLynx (variation of WireGuard) tunneling protocol alongside OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec, which are needed for Synology NAS.
With more than 9,500 servers in 149 countries, you’ll be able to enjoy a lag-free experience on various platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It’s also possible to set NordVPN on a router and secure all your devices simultaneously.
Prices start at $3.49/month, and you can test it out with a 3-day free trial or a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark – affordable VPN service for Synology NAS
| Server fleet: | 4,500+ servers in 100 countries |
| Simultaneous connections: | Unlimited |
| Compatible with: | Synology NAS, QNAP NAS, routers, Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and more |
| Current deal: | Now up to 85% OFF Surfshark + 3 months FREE |
Surfshark is another top Synology NAS VPN service with budget-friendly plans, which can be further reduced using the Surfshark discount code: OFFCN. It’s highly compatible with Synology devices and has guided tutorials on the setup process with the OpenVPN protocol.
The service stands out with its security: it offers unbreakable encryption (AES-256), operates under RAM-only servers, has Camouflage mode, and an independently audited no-logs policy. Surfshark has obfuscated servers for additional protection, too. To make sure your data is safe, there’s DNS and WebRTC leak protection and a functional kill switch.
Surfshark network exceeds 4,500 servers in 100 countries. And our Surfshark tests have shown they have impressive speeds, thanks to WireGuard, the primary tunneling protocol, and others – OpenVPN (TCP/UDP) and IKEv2 protocols.
The service can be used on unlimited simultaneous devices (available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS), so you can use it on as many NAS devices as you want.
Prices are very attractive, with plans starting from $2.49/month. You can use a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. IPVanish – fast Synology NAS VPN
| Server fleet: | 3,400+ servers in 112 countries |
| Simultaneous connections: | Unlimited |
| Compatible with: | Synology NAS, QNAP NAS, FreeNAS, routers, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more |
| Current deal: | Now up to 83% OFF IPVanish |
IPVanish is also one of our top VPNs for Synology NAS devices, and it is recommended on the Synology community forum, too. It offers the required OpenVPN protocol and operates under strict security measures.
With IPVanish, you get overall protection, as it implements modern AES-256 encryption, a built-in DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy for privacy, so all of your data is secured and cannot be compromised.
IPVanish has a handful of servers – over 3,400 servers in 112 countries, which is more than enough to connect from almost anywhere. Our IPVanish tests showed that the performance and speeds are reliable, so you can rest assured your speeds won’t drop if you’re not too far away from the connected server location. IPVanish offers WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 tunneling protocols, which work perfectly with Synology NAS.
The service is compatible with most operating systems: Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Besides, the provider's prices start at $2.19/month with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
4. ExpressVPN – secure VPN for Synology NAS with an advanced feature set
| Server fleet: | Servers in 105 countries |
| Simultaneous connections: | 14 |
| Compatible with: | Synology NAS, QNAP NAS, FreeNAS, routers, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more |
| Current deal: | Now up to 80% OFF ExpressVPN + 4 months FREE |
ExpressVPN is another Synology-compatible VPN service with an impressive feature set. Top-notch data leak protection and market-leading encryption make it ideal for Synology and other network-attached storage devices.
ExpressVPN keeps up with other market leaders, as it implements the modern AES-256 encryption and ChaCha20/Poly1305 if you use ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol. The provider also claims not to collect any of the user’s data, so it’s only visible to you.
What’s more, ExpressVPN offers more features that can be beneficial while using it with Synology NAS devices. These include stealth servers, Threat Manager, and its own Aircove router app, which are listed in our ExpressVPN review.
With ExpressVPN, you can choose from servers in 105 countries and run it on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and browser extensions.
With premium subscription plans, which start from $2.49/month, you get 14 simultaneous connections.
5. CyberGhost – reliable and easy-to-use Synology NAS VPN
| Server fleet: | Servers in 100 countries |
| Simultaneous connections: | 7 |
| Compatible with: | Synology NAS, QNAP NAS, FreeNAS, routers, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more |
| Current deal: | Get 88% OFF CyberGhost + 2 months FREE |
CyberGhost has also made it to my top list and is compatible with Synology network-attached storage devices. It provides extensive guides to get you started with OpenVPN. Besides, it offers protection for your files and online activities.
To start with, CyberGhost hides your data by using AES-256 encryption and implements a no-logs policy that’s been independently audited. From the extensive feature set, an ad blocker, an automated kill switch, and a dedicated IP will definitely contribute to your NAS staying protected.
CyberGhost provides WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN tunneling protocols, which are needed for use with Synology devices. As experts revealed in our CyberGhost review, it also boosts performance and speed, so you have a lag-free experience.
This VPN is compatible with all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. You can share the connection with up to 7 devices simultaneously and can connect to servers in 100 countries.
CyberGhost prices start from $1.59/month, and there’s a 45-day money-back guarantee available.
How we selected and tested these VPNs
Selecting a VPN for your Synology device can be a tough nut to crack, as not all VPN services are compatible with NAS devices. For this reason, I teamed up with the Cybernews research team to review and select 41 providers while following our VPN testing methodology. Here are the ranking criteria I used to position providers after reviewing them:
- Compatibility (20%). Not all VPNs are compatible with Synology. However, all Synology devices, whether it’s a NAS, QNAP NAS, or FreeNAS, support L2TP, PPTP, and OpenVPN tunneling protocols. Therefore, I selected the VPNs that have these protocols available.
- Strong encryption and leak protection (15%). VPN for Synology devices must have strong encryption to protect the storage of important files. I only picked the top-tier encryption VPNs.
- Privacy (10%). I prioritized VPN services with advanced encryption, specialized servers, strict no-logs policies, and additional security features like IP leak protection, all operating on RAM-only servers.
- Manual configuration (10%). I checked if a VPN can be manually configured on a Synology NAS device.
- User-friendly installation process (10%). Although Synology doesn’t support native VPN apps, it’s important that it has a straightforward manual installation process, such as easily found credentials and configuration files.
- Speed (10%). Faster VPN speeds are crucial not only for the efficient transfer of large files but also for smooth access to them.
- Server network (10%). More server locations mean more chances to have a VPN connection closer to the original area, and it won’t affect the speeds that much.
- Money-back guarantee or a free trial (5%). It’s useful to have an opportunity to figure if a specific VPN is a suitable choice for you – a money-back guarantee or a free trial lets you do that.
- Customer support (5%). The installation process of the VPN on a Synology NAS device isn’t the simplest task for less tech-savvy users. Hence, the support of the VPN provider should be all-rounded.
- Pricing (5%). I picked VPNs that offer the most value for your money. I also checked for generous money-back guarantees and free trial availability, so you could test the service before committing long-term.
Comparison of the best VPNs for Synology NAS
| Brand | Free trial | Price (lowest price per month) | Device compatibility | Security features | Logging | Servers | Simultaneous connections | Country |
| NordVPN | Yes, 3-day | $3.49/month | Synology NAS, QNAP NAS, FreeNAS, routers, Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and more | AES-256 and ChaCha20 (with NordLynx) encryption, kill switch, RAM-only servers | No logs, independently audited five times by Deloitte | 9,500+ servers in 149 countries | 10 | Panama |
| Surfshark | Yes, 7-day | $2.49/month | Synology NAS, QNAP NAS, routers, Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and more | AES-256 encryption, no-logs policy, RAM-only servers | No logs, independently audited by Deloitte | 4,500+ servers in 100 countries | Unlimited | The Netherlands (part of 9-Eyes) |
| IPVanish | Yes, 7-day | $2.19/month | Synology NAS, QNAP NAS, FreeNAS, routers, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more | AES-256 encryption with SHA-512 hash functions, no-logs policy, kill switch | No logs, independently audited by Leviathan | 3,400+ servers in 112 countries | Unlimited | United States (part of 5-Eyes) |
| ExpressVPN | No | $2.49/month | Synology NAS, QNAP NAS, FreeNAS, routers, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more | AES-256 encryption, no-logs policy, kill switch | No logs, independently audited by Cure53 | Servers in 105 countries | 14 | British Virgin Islands |
| CyberGhost | Yes, 1-day on a desktop, 3-day on Android, and 7-day on iOS | $1.59/month | Synology NAS, QNAP NAS, FreeNAS, routers, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more | AES-256 encryption, kill switch, no-logs policy | No logs, independently audited by Deloitte | Servers in 100 countries | 7 | Romania |
How to set up a VPN with Synology NAS?
The easiest and most optimal way to set up a VPN with Synology NAS is by performing a manual OpenVPN configuration. I prefer using OpenVPN because Comparitech endorsed it for its strong security and privacy. Here's what you have to do:
- Choose a reliable VPN service and purchase the subscription. I recommend NordVPN, now 75% OFF.
- For manual Synology NAS OpenVPN configuration, find the VPN service credentials. NordVPN service credentials can be found on your account.
- Choose a VPN server and download its OpenVPN configuration file. NordVPN server configuration files can be found here.
- Log in to your Synology NAS and go to the Control Panel, then Network.
- Under the Network interface tab, click on Create and choose to Create VPN profile.
- Choose OpenVPN (via importing an .ovpn file) and click Next.
- Fill in the fields as explained. Profile name: this can be anything, like the name of your VPN provider. User name: VPN service credentials (from step 2). Password: VPN service credentials (from step 2). Import .ovpn file: use the file you have downloaded (from step 3). CA certificate: you can leave this blank.
- Click Next and check the boxes for Use default gateway on a remote network and Reconnect when your VPN connection is lost.
- Click Apply.
- Select the profile you created and click Connect. Once the connection is successful, the status of the profile will change to Connected.
Alternatively, I recommend using a freemium VPN – a premium VPN service with a free trial or a money-back guarantee of a premium VPN. This way, you can test out all the features of the service without risking your security.
Conclusion
When it comes to Synology and other NAS devices, using a VPN is highly beneficial, as it protects your files from being hacked or compromised in any way. Therefore, I picked and thoroughly reviewed the best VPNs available that offer excellent features. My top pick is NordVPN, followed by Surfshark, and more providers. It provides fast speeds, strong encryption, and a wide range of server locations.
Additionally, all providers on my list are user-friendly and offer apps that are compatible with Synology devices. Choosing one of these top VPNs will help you enjoy a secure and private internet experience while using your Synology NAS devices.
FAQ
Should I use VPN on NAS?
Yes, it's recommended to use a VPN on a Synology NAS to protect your data from potential security threats. A VPN encrypts all traffic between your device and the NAS, making it more difficult for attackers to intercept and steal your data.
Does Synology work with a VPN?
Yes, Synology NAS can work with a VPN. However, not all VPNs are compatible with NAS. Since there are no VPN apps that run natively on NAS devices, the VPN service must have L2TP, PPTP, or OpenVPN protocols. Otherwise, the connection won’t be possible.
What VPN to use with Synology?
All of the VPNs I selected are highly compatible with Synology NAS and offer the required functionality to secure the device without a hurdle. However, my top pick is NordVPN, as it offers detailed guides for Synology device setup, is simple to install, and comes with top-notch security features.
Can I install a VPN on the Synology router?
Yes, you can install a VPN on a Synology router. Synology devices support PPTP, L2TP, and OpenVPN tunneling protocols, with OpenVPN being the most secure and reliable. The setup process differs according to the VPN provider. Alternatively, you can set up a VPN on any router to secure all the devices connected to it.
Is it legal to use a VPN for Synology?
Yes, it’s absolutely legal to use a VPN for Synology devices, as long as the VPN is legal in your region and you’re not using it for any illegal activities. VPNs are commonly used to enhance privacy and security when accessing online content, including on Synology devices.
