Every Synology NAS comes with Surveillance Station available as a free downloadable package via the DSM Package Center. To help users get started immediately, Synology includes default, permanent device licenses with every NAS unit. The Standard Allocation
Free licenses do not restrict software capabilities. You get access to the exact same enterprise features as paid licenses, including smart detection, mobile alerts, and automated recording schedules. Exceptions to the Rule
If you search GitHub or certain forums, you will find "license generators" for Surveillance Station. These claim to turn your 2 free licenses into 999.
For homeowners and small business owners looking to deploy a security system, the cost of software licensing is a critical factor. Understanding how Synology handles free licenses, what those licenses allow you to do, and when you need to pay for upgrades is essential for planning an efficient budget. What is the Synology Surveillance Station Free License? synology surveillance station license free
If you need four cameras but only have two free Synology licenses, prioritize your two most critical zones (e.g., front door and driveway) for Synology. Connect these to Surveillance Station to leverage advanced features like continuous recording, localized AI detection, and secure backup. For less critical areas (e.g., a backyard fence), use the camera manufacturer’s free standalone cloud app for live viewing, keeping them completely off the NAS. When Do You Need to Buy Extra Licenses?
If you are setting up security cameras for your home or business, you are likely asking: How many free licenses do I get, and how do I maximize them?
What (e.g., driveway, register, hallways) are you trying to monitor? What is your Synology NAS model number? Share public link Every Synology NAS comes with Surveillance Station available
You either:
If you are on a strict budget and want to stick to the free limits, consider these strategies: 1. Optimize Camera Placement
If you solely want to view cameras in Apple HomeKit, Scrypted is free and runs in Docker. It records to your NAS file system without any license. However, the UI is not a traditional security NVR. You get access to the exact same enterprise
Synology cameras do not require any device licenses to run on Surveillance Station.
If you want to map out your upcoming security layout, let me know: How many do you plan to install?
Every Synology NAS comes pre-packaged with default, permanent, and completely free camera licenses.
: You can migrate your licenses to a different Synology NAS if you upgrade your hardware in the future.
Advanced surveillance hardware often features multiple sensors to capture wide areas. Synology licenses these based on how the camera delivers its video stream: