Review: Synology BeeStation offers a local network alternative to iCloud and Dropbox cloud storage [Video]

Best known for their network attached solutions (like my beloved DS920+), Synology have recently launched a new product in their lineup, called the Synology BeeStation.

The BeeStation aims to simplify the idea of a home NAS, offering a local network backup option as an alternative to cloud solutions like iCloud and Dropbox. Here’s how it works. 

Unlike their more traditional NAS devices, the BeeStation is a sealed box with no accessible drive bays. About the size of a thick hardback book, the BeeStation resembles a compact black box that would slot in a corner of any room, perhaps placed next to your Wi-Fi router (as it needs a wired Ethernet connection). 

The BeeStation houses a 4 TB hard drive for the actual data storage, of which about 3.5 TB is usable space. The top of the BeeStation features a discreet grille for heat dissipation. Between the fans and the spinning internal hard drive, be aware it is not silent in operation. …