Access and Edit Synology NAS Files on Your iPad: The Easiest Way

Updated at: 24/06/2025

Tired of juggling files between your iPad and computer? Accessing and editing Synology NAS files directly on your iPad is easier than you think! This guide shows you the simplest methods, bypassing clunky workarounds. Learn how to seamlessly integrate your iPad with your Synology NAS, boosting your productivity and simplifying your workflow. Let's get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare your iPad

    • Connect your iPad to your home network.
    • Open the Pages app (or any app you want to use to access and edit files).
    Open the Pages app (or any app you want to use to access and edit files). Open the Pages app (or any app you want to use to access and edit files).
    Prepare your iPad

  2. Connect to your Synology NAS

    • Select 'Options' and choose 'Connect to Server'.
    • Enter your Synology NAS server address and credentials.
    • Navigate to the desired network share (e.g., 'public').
    Navigate to the desired network share (e.g., 'public'). Navigate to the desired network share (e.g., 'public'). Navigate to the desired network share (e.g., 'public').
    Connect to your Synology NAS

  3. Access and Edit Files

    • Create a new document or open an existing file from the network share.
    • Edit your document. Pages (and Numbers/Keynote) auto-save, but periodically select 'Save' to ensure changes are saved reliably to the network share.
    Edit your document. Pages (and Numbers/Keynote) auto-save, but periodically select 'Save' to ensure changes are saved reliably to the network share. Edit your document. Pages (and Numbers/Keynote) auto-save, but periodically select 'Save' to ensure changes are saved reliably to the network share.
    Access and Edit Files
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Tips

  • Not all file types can be opened directly on the iPad. Office files generally work well, and Apple's iWork suite (Pages, Numbers, Keynote) is included for free.
  • While auto-save is convenient, manually saving your work frequently is recommended, especially when working with network shares, to prevent data loss.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Network Settings

Reason: Your iPad isn't connected to the same network as your Synology NAS or the network settings are incorrectly configured.
Solution: Ensure your iPad and Synology NAS are on the same Wi-Fi network and that your iPad's network settings are correct.

2. Account Credentials Issues

Reason: You've entered the wrong username or password for your Synology NAS account.
Solution: Double-check your username and password for typos and ensure you're using the correct credentials for your Synology NAS account.

3. DS file app not properly configured

Reason: The DS file app might not be properly linked to your Synology NAS or requires additional permissions.
Solution: Check the DS file app settings to verify the connection to your Synology NAS and grant any necessary permissions.

FAQs

What apps do I need to access my Synology NAS from my iPad?
The best option is Synology's DS file app. It's free, officially supported, and offers robust file management features, including editing capabilities for many file types. Other cloud storage apps that support Synology NAS may also work, but DS file is generally the most reliable and feature-rich.
Can I edit Microsoft Office files directly on my iPad using my Synology NAS?
Yes, the DS file app allows for editing many file types, including Microsoft Office files (.doc, .docx, .xls, .xlsx, .ppt, .pptx). You might need the appropriate Microsoft Office app installed on your iPad to fully utilize the editing capabilities, but the DS file app allows you to open and save changes to these files stored on your NAS.