Replacing stock OS on QNAP/Synology/etc. amd64 machines

I can tell you that I did this years ago on a TS-251B and it still works without problems:

• Connect two pendrives. The first with the OMV ISO (or debian and then you install OMV). The second will be the one destined to house the OMV installation.
• Access the bios (QNAP has video output so it's easy) and configure the first pendrive as the default boot. You will see that there is an internal memory that contains the QNAP operating system, make sure not to install anything on it or you will lose it.
• Start the OMV installation and when you get to the choice of the installation drive, make sure to choose your second pendrive, do not configure the internal QNAP drive or you will lose it.
• It continues normally as if it were any other system.

I don't know if this will work on the TS-253e, you'll have to google it or find out for yourself.

One more thing, in the disks tab of the OMV GUI you will still see the internal QNAP drive. Remember to never modify it or touch it.

Some people worry about not being able to go back to the factory OS. The internal "usb stick" is so small that I doubt you would use it for anything anyway. I have been running OMV on x86 QNAPs for probably close to a decade. First thing I would do when I got one is pull the internal memory stick and upgrade the ram. Never even used the QNAP OS on the ones I owned. Used everything from a 2 bay QNAP to a 12 bay QNAP.

Quote from rah__

Sounds like they are essentially unrestricted PCs in a custom enclosure, which is exactly what I want, thanks

I haven't seen a QNAP that is restricted as long as it has an x86 cpu. Some might not have a video port though.

Quote from ryecoaaron

First thing I would do when I got one is pull the internal memory stick and upgrade the ram

I could do the second thing and I did, I upgraded to 8GB with two Kingston RAM modules, it works fine. As for removing the internal memory, it was not possible. In this model at least it is welded, and I didn't want to juggle because it is not mine but rather a family member's. Anyway, he doesn't know anything about OMV or other things, he just asked me for a favor and I manage the server remotely. Zero problems.

Quote from chente

As for removing the internal memory, it was not possible. In this model at least it is welded, and I didn't want to juggle

It was on all of my units as well. I cut thru it with a razor knife.

I will say I was careful. I've had to do the same thing when replacing capacitors on boards before.

Well, I guess you didn't do a Last Samurai style cut.

Quote from woeklchen

I gave the TS 251D an SSD, which went through the PCI slot

can i ask what pcie adapter did you use? Does any standard one work or is it necessary to look for one in particular?