2 Free Licenses. This applies to almost all standard models, including popular series like the DS220+, DS723+, DS923+, and enterprise rack units.
The only official "free" license count is 2 (or 1 on very low-end models). Any claim of more than 2 free licenses without payment is false unless Synology runs a rare promotion.
"Each Synology NAS comes with two free camera licenses. For additional cameras, you must purchase license packs (1-pack, 4-pack, or 8-pack). There is no legal method to obtain additional free licenses."
: Models like the BC500 , TC500 , and CC400W are license-free and do not require a separate seat in Surveillance Station.
The short answer is
: Hackers often embed malware in cracked software. Using an unofficial patch on your NAS creates a significant security vulnerability, making it a prime target for ransomware and other cyberattacks.
Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals integrated into the video feed for retail monitoring typically require an independent license. Maximizing Your Free Setup Without Buying Licenses
Surveillance Station is a professional Video Management System (VMS) that runs on Synology NAS devices. It transforms your NAS into a network video recorder (NVR), allowing you to: View live feeds from IP cameras. Record footage based on schedules or motion detection. Manage camera settings remotely.
Synology charges per device channel , not necessarily per physical camera body. synology surveillance station license free free
Synology Surveillance Station is a comprehensive video surveillance solution designed to work seamlessly with Synology NAS (Network-Attached Storage) devices. This software enables users to monitor, record, and analyze video feeds from multiple IP cameras, providing a centralized platform for managing their surveillance needs. With its user-friendly interface and robust feature set, Surveillance Station has become a go-to solution for both home and business users.
Synology’s licensing page explicitly states:
Almost all standard Synology NAS models include two free device licenses out of the box.
Some cameras feature two distinct lenses built into a single housing to cover two different angles (e.g., a panoramic view and a PTZ zoom view). 2 Free Licenses
Multi-sensor or fisheye cameras that output multiple distinct video streams may require multiple licenses, though some panoramic models optimized by Synology only consume one.
If you require more, prioritize investing in high-quality cameras that provide wider coverage, effectively doing more with your two free spots. If you're looking to purchase, An estimate on the cost of additional licenses.
If you have an old Synology NAS, you can use it solely for surveillance, giving you another 2 licenses.