Synology Let’s Encrypt – How to Use it

SSL and TLS, aka secure socket layer and transport layer security, are essential protocols that encrypt communication between servers and clients and ensure greater online security. Anyone visiting your website will first and foremost check whether you’re using safe encryption. If not, you can say goodbye to most of your traffic.

To assure all website visitors of your site’s security and thus improve your website traffic, you need an SSL or a TLS certificate from a certificate authority. That’s precisely what you’re getting with Synology Let’s Encrypt.

Take a look below to learn how to use Synology Encrypt and obtain your SSL certification.

Part 1. Basic Requirements for Using Synology Let’s Encrypt

HTTPS is the preferred internet protocol as it prevents data theft and leaks. It’s vital for any websites that need their visitors’ private data, such as names, addresses, and emails used in lead generation forms, for instance. Additionally, it’s critical on ecommerce sites where visitors might leave sensitive information such as credit card numbers.

An SSL/TLS certificate proves to your visitors that your site is secured and that any information they share with you stays between you and them only.

Of course, to obtain the SSL/TLS certificate, you and your site need to meet certain conditions.

Primarily, you need to have a valid domain name. If you don’t have one, you shouldn’t worry as they’re easy to obtain. You can visit any domain name registrar, input the domain you want, and pay a small fee. Alternatively, you could use a dynamic DNS (DDNS) for free with Synology.

With the domain name handled, the only other things you need are opened ports 80 and 443. If you have issues with port forwarding, contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for a solution.

Part 2. How To Install Let’s Encrypt on Synology NAS

Synology NAS is all about simplicity. Whether trying to recover deleted files from Synology NAS or install Let’s Encrypt certificates, you just need to follow a few simple steps.

Depending on your provider, you might receive your certificates automatically, or you might have to set them up manually.

Part 3. How To Use Let’s Encrypt for a Domain Name

You have to go to your Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) control panel to start using Let’s Encrypt with an existing domain name. Then, just follow a few steps:

Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll need to provide additional information. Input your domain name or Synology DDNS hostname and provide the email address you used for registering your certification.

Optionally, you could also provide your subject alternative name – aka other subdomains covered by your certificate.

Once you’ve provided all the necessary information, click Apply and start enjoying your new certificate.

Part 4. How To Use Let’s Encrypt for a DDNS Domain

Using Let’s Encrypt for a Synology DDNS domain is similar to using it for your domain name: 

Once you’re ready, click OK. You’ll see a popup notifying you that you’re setting your default certificate. Click OK again and let the DDNS set up.

Synology NAS: Choosing a Default Certification

Synology NAS makes it easy for you to choose your default certification from Let’s Encrypt. From the Control Panel, you’ll want to:

A popup box will appear, with Set as default certificate at the bottom. Check the box, then click OK.

Part 6. Choosing Services for Using SSL Certificates

Synology allows you to use different SSL certificates on specific services. To enable this option, you must:

You’ll see the complete list of services you’re using on your Synology account. Click on the dropdown menu to select the preferred certificate you’d like to use for a specific service. Once you’ve selected the certificate, click OK.

Conclusion

Using Let’s Encrypt with Synology is a simple process that allows you to install and renew your SSL certificates with the utmost ease. In just a few steps, you can set up Let’s Encrypt, improve the security of your website, and inspire trust among your site visitors.