Connecting a NAS via Wireless Bridge – Same as a Desktop Setup?
A NAS (Network Attached Storage) is typically designed for wired LAN environments. However, in situations where a direct wired connection to the router isn’t feasible due to your room layout, using a wireless internet bridge can be an effective alternative. Many users already use this method with their desktop PCs by attaching a wireless bridge to receive internet via LAN. But can the same method be applied to a NAS?
The answer is yes. A NAS can indeed be connected to a wireless bridge via LAN cable, functioning the same way a desktop does. In this post, we’ll explore how this works, how to set it up properly, key configuration points, and what to keep in mind for optimal performance.
1. Understanding the Network Structure for Wireless NAS
NAS units don’t receive Wi-Fi signals directly. Instead, they can use a "wireless bridge" device that converts a Wi-Fi signal into a wired LAN connection. This allows the NAS to act like it’s connected by Ethernet.
A typical structure looks like this:
- NAS → LAN Cable → Wireless Bridge → Wi-Fi → Router
This setup is exactly the same as how Grace connects her desktop PC via a wireless bridge. A NAS works perfectly within this architecture.
2. What Kind of Bridge Device Should You Use?
Unlike simple Wi-Fi extenders, a proper wireless bridge must include a LAN port to deliver internet to the NAS. Look for the following specs:
- At least one wired LAN port
- Dual-band 5GHz support for faster speeds
- Mode switching between Bridge/AP/Repeater
Recommended devices: TP-Link RE450, ASUS RP-AX56, Netgear EX6150
3. Important Network Settings for a Stable NAS
To ensure proper NAS functionality, make sure the following settings are configured:
- Enable DHCP: So your router assigns an IP to the NAS via the bridge
- Gateway and DNS: Should point to your router’s IP (e.g., 192.168.0.1)
- On DSM: Control Panel → Network → General → confirm automatic IP assignment
If the bridge doesn’t properly relay DHCP, the NAS might fail to get an IP or show up on the network. Check firmware or switch the bridge to AP mode if needed.
4. Performance Tips and Wireless Limitations
Using a NAS wirelessly has both benefits and limitations:
- Pros: Flexible installation, no need to run long Ethernet cables
- Cons: Slower large file transfers, potential signal dropouts
For the following use cases, a wired connection is strongly recommended:
- Full PC backups or large media transfers
- Streaming 4K videos via Plex or Video Station
- RAID recovery, DSM reinstallation, or system-critical operations
But for these lighter tasks, a wireless bridge setup is generally fine:
- Automatic smartphone photo backups
- Document storage, music streaming
- Remote access via Synology Drive or Photos
5. Grace’s Desktop Setup = NAS Setup
Grace’s current desktop network configuration works like this:
- Desktop → LAN Cable → Wireless Bridge → Wi-Fi → Router
The NAS follows the exact same logic:
- NAS → LAN Cable → Wireless Bridge → Wi-Fi → Router
The NAS behaves as if it’s on a wired LAN, enabling full DSM access and compatibility with QuickConnect, Synology Drive, Hyper Backup, and other apps. To ensure optimal performance, place the NAS close to the wireless bridge device to minimize signal loss.
Conclusion – Wireless Bridge for NAS? Absolutely!
Connecting your NAS via a wireless bridge is not only possible—it’s often the best option when Ethernet isn’t feasible. It uses the same principles as connecting a desktop via a LAN cable to a wireless adapter. As long as your bridge device is reliable and DHCP is working properly, your NAS will function just like it’s connected to a wired LAN.
For heavy file transfers and streaming, Ethernet still wins. But for everyday usage and general backups, a wireless NAS setup is fully viable with proper planning.