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How to factory reset a Synology NAS

Ready to start fresh?

Sometimes, something may simply go wrong with a NAS, especially if something is incorrectly configured. If you find yourself with a Synology NAS you’re unable to connect to, it may be time to give it a reset. We’re going to look at how to reset the admin password and physically reset a Synology NAS altogether.

Neither of these methods will affect data stored on the drives. We always recommend backing up your data regardless.

How to reset admin password on Synology NAS

Synology DSM 7
Synology DSM 7 home screen. (Source: NAS Master)

We’ve looked at resetting the password for an admin on Synology NAS, but to recap, here’s how to do it:

  1. Press and hold the reset button on the Synology NAS (using a paper clip) until a system sound is heard.

The device and password have now been completely reset.

  1. Enter your Synology NAS IP into a browser to load up the DSM web admin UI.
  2. Enter the default username “admin” and leave the password field blank.
  3. Click Sign In.

If using DSM 6.2.3 or earlier:

  1. Create a password.
  2. Log in using “admin” and the newly created password.
  3. Go to Control Panel > User.
  4. Select the User tab.
  5. Double-click on the chosen administrator account.
  6. Select the Info tab.
  7. Reset the password and click OK.

It’s now recommended you disable the administrator account and continue using a user account for enhanced security.

If using DSM 6.2.4 or later:

  1. Reset the password for the account.
  2. Click Submit.
  3. Click Sign In Now and enter the new password.

How to reset Synology NAS and reinstall OS

If changing the administrator password is not possible or you simply wish to give the NAS a full reset, here’s how to go about doing so:

  1. Press and hold down the Reset button for about 4 seconds until a beep is heard.
  2. Within 10 seconds, press and hold down the Reset button again for 4 seconds until 3 more beeps are heard.
  3. Wait for the status light on your Synology NAS to blink orange or green.
  4. Enter the IP address of the NAS into your browser.
  5. Follow the wizard to complete the re-installation process.

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