time machine backups: usb drive for use on synology router

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Level 1

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time machine backups: usb drive for use on synology router

Hello, I've tried repeatedly to get a time machine backup on a laCie hard drive attached to a Synology router (RT2600ac). I was told by Synology that the laCie drive isn't compatible with their router. For those who have this or similar Synology routers, is there a hard drive for drive type/form factor that's worked well for your for running Time Machine backups?

Some details: The first couple backups (partial) using Time Machine succeed and data was initially transferred. But subsequent backups were excruciatingly slow and never completed. Thereafter, it was stuck in "preparing" status before failing. Synology referred me to their list of supported drives but I'd rather get a recommendation before choosing one at random.

MacBook Pro (2020 and later)

Posted on Feb 15, 2022 8:56 PM

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Answer 1

lllaass

Level 10

210,459 points

Feb 16, 2022 1:03 AM in response to sotto65

I doubt that you will get a response since users come here with problems and very few use router attached storage as a T backup drive since very few routers suoport that..

I would try one of the drives recommended on the compatibility list.

Also, I looked at manual for the router and see no mention of using an attached drive as a ™ destination.

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Answer 2

sotto65 Author

Level 1

8 points

Feb 18, 2022 9:39 PM in response to lllaass

Thank you for the feedback-- appreciated. I guess I can try a new drive from that list but I have doubts that it would make a difference: I reformatted the laCie drive to the filesystem recognized by the router so don't see why the actual hardware itself should matter. After my Time Capsule hard drive failed a while back, its been a challenge to find a good local backup option to replace it with.

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Answer 3

lllaass

Level 10

210,459 points

Feb 19, 2022 12:44 AM in response to sotto65

I myself do not understand why Synology does not work with any reformatted external drive.

Time machine is picky about the drive it works so maybe it is not compatible with Time Machine. The Synology instruction akes not mention of using it (w/USB connected drive) as a Time Machine drive.

The Synology NAS manual specifically provide instruction for setting it up as a ™ drive as do other NAS like Qnap and WD MyCloud.

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time machine backups: usb drive for use on synology router

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