Synology RackStation RS1619xs+ SAN/NAS Storage System

The Synology RackStation RS1619xs+ SAN/NAS Storage System is a premium, compact 1U rackmount storage solution designed to empower small- to medium-sized businesses with enterprise-grade performance, reliability, and scalability. Built to handle demanding workloads—from file sharing and backups to virtualization and collaboration—this rackmount NAS/SAN combines robust hardware with Synology’s acclaimed DiskStation Manager (DSM) software. It’s engineered to simplify data management, accelerate business operations, and protect your information with advanced data protection capabilities, powerful networking options, and flexible expansion paths. If you need a centralized storage gateway that grows with your business, the RS1619xs+ delivers exceptional value, ease of use, and rock-solid reliability in a compact form factor.

• High-performance storage for demanding workloads. The RS1619xs+ is designed to deliver strong throughput and responsive performance under heavy multi-user access. With a capable multi-core processor and ample memory, you’ll experience fast file transfers, efficient backups, and smooth operation for virtualization environments. The system is tuned to minimize latency and maximize IOPS, ensuring quick access to data even during peak office hours. Whether you’re archiving large media projects or supporting a busy office with shared storage, this rackmount NAS/SAN keeps pace with growing demands.
• Advanced data protection and recovery. Data integrity is at the core of the RS1619xs+. It supports flexible RAID configurations and integrates with Synology’s snapshot technology, allowing point-in-time recovery for folders and shared spaces. With features like Hyper Backup for offsite and cloud backups, you can safeguard critical information against accidental deletions, hardware failures, or ransomware. The combination of local redundancy, snapshotting, and reliable backup workflows helps ensure business continuity with minimal downtime.
• Scalability through expansion and cache. This system is built to grow with your business. It offers PCIe expansion options to install faster network interfaces or NVMe cache for improved performance, and it supports expansion units to increase total storage capacity without replacing the existing hardware. By adding cache and more drive bays as needs evolve, you can sustain high-performance access for large datasets, virtualization workloads, and archival storage without disruption to users.
• Rich virtualization and application ecosystem. The RS1619xs+ integrates seamlessly with Synology’s DSM platform, empowering you to run virtual machines, Docker containers, and business-grade applications with ease. Features like Virtual Machine Manager enable on-premises virtualization, while Active Backup for Business centralizes protection across endpoints, servers, and cloud services. This makes the RS1619xs+ a versatile hub for IT infrastructure, development, and collaboration within SMB environments.
• Reliability, security, and low total cost of ownership. Designed for 24/7 operation, the RS1619xs+ emphasizes reliability with hot-swappable drive bays, robust security measures, and ongoing firmware updates. DSM provides granular user permissions, encryption options, and security hardening tools to safeguard data. The combination of a compact chassis, efficient power usage, and scalable storage reduces total cost of ownership while delivering enterprise-class capabilities in a small- to midsize business setting.

Technical Details of Synology RackStation RS1619xs+ SAN/NAS Storage System

• Form factor: 1U rackmount NAS/SAN storage system
• Drive bays: Hot-swappable multi-bay enclosure with scalable expansion options (additional bays available via Synology expansion units)
• Processor: Multi-core processor designed for continuous operation and dependable performance
• Memory: Moderate to ample RAM with potential for upgrades to enhance caching and multitasking
• Networking: Ethernet connectivity with capable network interfaces and optional 10GbE NICs for high-speed data transfers
• Expansion: PCIe expansion slot and support for expansion units to scale capacity and performance as your needs grow
• Operating System: DiskStation Manager (DSM) with Btrfs file system, snapshots, and integrated data protection tools
• Security and reliability: Built-in encryption options, routine firmware updates, and 24/7 reliability for business environments

How to install Synology RackStation RS1619xs+

Preparing to install the RS1619xs+ is a straightfoward process designed to minimize downtime and get your storage up and running quickly. Start by selecting a suitable rack location with proper ventilation, adequate clearance, and access to power and networking. If you plan to use the unit for demanding workloads, consider installing an optional NVMe cache or a higher-speed NIC to optimize throughput from day one. Once the hardware is ready, follow these general steps to install and configure the RS1619xs+:

• Unbox and inspect: Check that all components are present, including the rack ears, power cables, and USB/HDDs if you’ve prepared drives. Inspect the chassis for any shipping damage and ensure you have static-safe tools available.
• Rackmount and power up: Mount the RS1619xs+ into a standard 19-inch rack using the included rails. Connect the power cable and attach your network cables to a switch or capable router. Leave the system powered off until you’re ready to initialize.
• Install drives and expansion if needed: If you’re using new drives, insert them into the hot-swappable bays according to the drive order you plan to use. If you intend to add cache or expansion, install the PCIe card and any expansion units before powering on, following the hardware manual for slot assignments.
• Initial boot and network discovery: Power on the unit and use Synology’s Assistant or DSM web portal to locate the RS1619xs+. This initial discovery step helps you connect to the device from a web browser on the same network.
• Install DSM and create volumes: Follow the on-screen wizard to install DiskStation Manager (DSM). Create storage pools and volumes using the available RAID options, configure shared folders, and set up users and permissions according to your organizational policies.
• Configure backups, security, and access: Set up backup destinations (local, remote, or cloud), enable encryption where appropriate, and configure firewall rules and account security features. For virtualization or collaboration workflows, install and configure Virtual Machine Manager, Docker, or Active Backup for Business as needed.
• Establish monitoring and maintenance routines: Enable notifications for drive health, firmware updates, and security advisories. Regularly review system logs, run health checks on storage pools, and plan periodic firmware upgrades to maintain performance and protection.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What makes the RS1619xs+ suitable for SMBs? A: It combines compact 1U rackmount form factor with robust storage capabilities, scalable expansion, advanced data protection, and a rich DSM ecosystem, making it ideal for centralized storage, backups, virtualization, and collaboration in small- to mid-sized businesses.
• Q: Can I expand storage after purchase? A: Yes. The RS1619xs+ supports expansion units and PCIe-based upgrades to add more drive bays, higher networking speeds, or cache acceleration, allowing storage growth without replacing the base system.
• Q: What data protection features are included? A: The system supports RAID configurations, snapshots, and Synology’s backup solutions (Hyper Backup, Active Backup for Business) to protect against data loss and enable rapid recovery.
• Q: Does DSM support virtualization? A: Absolutely. DSM includes Virtual Machine Manager and Docker, enabling you to run virtual machines and containerized apps directly on the NAS, which is beneficial for test environments, development, and applications that require local hosting.
• Q: Is the RS1619xs+ suitable for 24/7 operation? A: Yes. It is designed for continuous operation with hot-swappable drives and enterprise-grade reliability, backed by regular firmware updates and security features to keep data safe and accessible around the clock.