The D-Link DNS-320 features a presentable classic design of network attached storage device aimed mainly at home and small office users. The DNS-320 offers basic NAS functions including, but not limited to, file sharing, backup and RAID. This is however true for many users when it comes to average usage, however for some advanced users, the stock firmware can become a bottleneck in the feature set, the customizability, and perform overall. To this category of users it will be possible to enjoy even more options of usefulness of the device as the dns-320 will be installed with third-party firmware.
Third party firmware has additional features which include, better file systems, enhanced RAID features and more efficient applications for media, data storage and protection. In this review we will look into the different types of alternative firmware available for D-Link DNS-320, their installation, advantages and disadvantages and the effects they have on your NAS.
Advantages of using other Firmware?
The D-Link DNS-320 standard firmware is just enough for basic users wanting to perform basic storage and sharing of files. However, this is a rather simplistic approach bearing in mind the current NAS systems such as those curved out by Synology or Qnap for example. There are several limitations with stock firmware. For instance:
Few Apps: The stock firmware presents only a handful of applications for streaming, backup, server etc and they come installed.
No support for modification: The stock firmware only supports surface upgrades with little possibilities of advanced users doing more.
Cumbersome Speed: Some users are also complaining of slow speeds, especially when doing prevalent activities such file transfers in bulk or operating multiple services at once.
RAID Capabilities Are Limited: The DNS-320 has RAID features but the built-in RAID configuration tools of the stock firmware are rather simplistic and cannot support complex RAID configurations.
This installation has more advanced capabilities as it achieves more efficient performance, more applications, better RAID management, and advanced customization ranges.
Most Recommended Alternative Firmware For DNS-320
There a number of alternative firmware packages available for DNS-320. Some of the most common ones include:
Alt-F
Debian (Linux)
Fonz Fun Plug (FFP)
OpenMediaVault
And now, let’s explain each of these alternative firmware options one by one.
1. Alt-F
For the D-Link DNS-320, one of the most, if not the most, widely used alternative firmware is Alt-F. This firmware is also dedicated to several NAS devices including the DNS-320 which makes it a fitting choice. Compared to stock firmware, Alt-F has a simple and easy to use interface, more features and much more freedom.
Elaborate on Alt-F Features:
The Enhanced Web Management Interface: The Alt-f management interface allows for better management of the Nas and provides more features, hence is easier to use.
File System Support: Supports a large variety of file systems apart from the conventional EXT3 file system which includes EXT4, BTRFS, XFS and NTFS file systems.
RAID Management Been Enhanced: In contrast to stock firmware, users of Alt-F are able to create, repair or even manage numerous RAID arrays with ease.
Improved Applications Support: It comes with support for other applications and services including but not limited to Transmission for torrents, MiniDLNA for streaming media contents and many others.
Performance Improvements: Alt-F enhances performance in terms of file transfer speeds as well as optimizing network latency.
That’s Not All: The installation process of Alt-F on DNS-320 is simple:
Backup Your Data: Please backup all your data in advance, as it is very likely that you will have to wipe the device before attempting any firmware changes.
Download the Alt-F Firmware: The packaged version of Alt-F should be available from their official website or a repository that the user can trust.
Install the Firmware: Use the stock web interface of the DNS-320 and navigate to the firmware upgrade section and upload the Alt-F firmware.
Reboot the Device: After the COVID-19 virus is installed, the device will reboot and you will have Alt-F.
Advantages of Alt-F:
Simple Installation: Installation turns out to be straightforward as Alt-F is made for DNS-320.
Superior Results: A lot of users claim that the stock firmware was much slower in transferring files and that the entire system was more responsive than the stock firmware.
More Options: The DNS-320 with common RAID support and decent apps, Alt-F takes it to the next level of NAS applications.
Disadvantages of Alt-F:
Insufficient Information: Even though a lot of people have used it, there is little to no information on Alt-F which presents challenges for users trying to fix a given problem.
Risk of Other Issues: As it is with all other firmware, applying this firmware has its downsides, including the risk of some instability or bugs cropping up in use, more especially when the device is fully pressed.
2. Debian (Linux)
For those who feel skilled enough to use the Linux operating system, they are allowed to install Debian, on the DNS-320. The Debian o/s can be a very powerful history altering o/s, and the fact that one can run it on the DNS-320 means that the sky is the limit. This also means that using Debian os, the DNS-320 becomes a server with all the applications that can run on linux.
Main Characteristics of Debian on DNS-320:
Entire Operating System: Debian provides highly adequate operating system to users enabling them to add any package supported by Debian.
High Level of Flexibility: With Debian, one can edit every system setting making it suitable for users who are keen on making their own NAS.
Software: For example, Debian lets users run such programs as Plex Media Center, Docker, OpenVPN, etc.
Installation of Many RAID Levels and Types of File System: Under Debian nearly all Hardware RAIDs and architectures of file systems are supported, such as EXT4, BTRFS, ZFS and others.
Installation Method:
Performing Debian installation on the DNS-320 is a few degree more edge than the Alt-F way:
Get Hold of the Debian Installer: In this case one will have to leverage on a dedicated edition installer for DNS-320, this one is mainly ARM based.
Get the Equipment Ready: The DNS-320 has to be prepared in such a way that it is able to boot to recovery mode for the installation of new firmware Ghosting.
Flash Debian: U-Boot and a serial console will be used for flashing the Debian installer and the installation steps will follow next.
Set up the System: In this stage, the system has to be setup for network connectivity, RAID infrastructure, and other system resources management.
Advantages of using Debian in DNS-320:
No Limits to Customization: Without any limitations impositions, Debian makes it possible to convert your DNS-320 into any server or NAS you wish from a Media center to a storage server or indeed anything else.
Support for expeditious RAID and Filesystem Capabilities: Complex RAID configurations as well as advanced file systems such as ZFS are supported under Debian, thus well suited for users who like it “hard core”.
Repository of Packages: One great advantage of the Debian repository is that it contains thousands of applications and tools which enable people to almost install everything.
Disadvantages of Using Debian in DNS-320:
1. Complicated Installation: The installation process may be complicated for the average user and also demands prior expertise in Linux OS, bootloaders, and the DNS-320 hardware itself.
2. Heavy Footprint: Although Debian is a powerful OS, it is also heavy in resources and may cause heavy strain on the hardware of the DNS-320.
3. Warranty is void: It is stated that in the event that a user installs Debian on the DNS-320 device, the warranty will be void and D-Link will not assist in any way with any difficulties occurring during the device’s operation.
Fonz Fun Plug (FFP)
Fonz Fun Plug (FFP) is yet another custom firmware software that is designed for most, if not all, DNS-320 D-Link NAS models. FFP is an enhancement over the stock firmware that provides more features and services but does not fully replace the existing firmware with a newer version. In other words, it is ‘simply’ some software that tries to achieve greater performance with the existing firmware.
Main Features of Fonz Fun Plug:
Compact in Size and has an Easy Installation Process: FFP is meant to be used along with the existing stock firmware which enables users that do not want to take all the risk of flashing the firmware to enjoy its benefits.
SSH and Telnet Access: FFP supports SSH and Telnet on D-Link DNS-320, allowing power users to access the system and perform configurations through command line.
Additional Services: It provides support for additional features such as Transmission(torrent client), MiniDLNA(media streaming support) and other similar lightweight services.
Flexible: Users can run additional scripts and services on the DNS-320, which is a more advanced feature than the default firmware advantages of FFP.
Installation Sequence:
FFP (Fonz Fun Plug) Download: All the necessary files for Fonz Fun Plug can be obtained from reliable and safe sources.
USB Drive Preparation: FFP is installed by copying the necessary data into a flash drive which is later plugged into the DNS-320 Modem Router.
Restart the NAS Device: As soon as the device is turned back on, the system will recognize the FFP scripts and carry on with the installation of extra components.
Advantages of Fonz Fun Plug:
Non-Invasive Approach: The FFP is built as an ‘add-on’ and does not overwrite the original firmware, and so is appropriate for users who wish to retain the basic D-Link features and yet expand on them.
Easy to Install: The installation stage is more straightforward in this case than in cases of total replacement of the firmware.
Light: FFP is light on resources and has minimal strain on the DNS-320 system.
Disadvantages of Fonz Fun Plug:
Basic Functionality: Some redundant functionalities are added by FFP but unlike Alt-F or Debian, a user cannot freely customize the system.
No GUI Enhancements: There are no upgrades made to the default interface that FFP comes with and the web-based console can appear outdated in comparison to some recent NAS offerings.
4. OpenMediaVault
OpenMediaVault (OMV) is an open source Network Attached Storage software built upon Debian. It is a more advanced custom firmware for the DNS-320 that was made specifically for NAS. OMV is more than capable as it encompasses a lot of features for its users including but not limited to file shares, backup tools, RAID management, media sharing and much more.
Supporting OpenMediaVault Features:
Web Interface – OpenMediaVault OMV has an easy to use and a contemporary web user interface for the users to control their NAS. It is much more user friendly, layout and function wise than the prebuilt firmware for the DNS-320.
Managing RAID: OMV offers support for different levels of RAID functionality, including RAID level 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10, amongst others. It also provides means of monitoring and administering installed RAID disks, including but not limited to automatic reconstruction and failure alerts.
Extensions And Plugins: OMV offers a wide variety of plugins thus enabling users to customize and enhance the software where necessary. Some of the sources of add-ons include Video Streaming – Plex Media Server; file Synchronization – OwnCloud and torrents – Transmission.
File Systems: As Debian, OMV also supports different file systems such as EXT4 file system, BTRFS, XFS and ZFS file system. This helps to ease the choice of the file system for the end user based on considerations on performance, scalability and data safety and durability.
Task Scheduling and Monitoring: OMV enables the users to undertake maintenance activities that may include taking backups, performing upgrades, and monitoring a particular disk to be done automatically. In this way, it assures utmost efficiency for your NAS without excessive manual labor.
Installation Process:
The process of installing OpenMediaVault on D-Link DNS-320 is described as follows:
Backup Data: In most other firmware installation processes, all the data must be careful backed up before any proceeding, so as to avoid any damaging losses – the same applies in this case.
Prepare Installation Files: It is common practice to obtain an OpenMediaVault installation image especially in the case of proprietary operating systems that usually come with devices such as the DNS-320 ARM based NAS. In such cases a USB key may need to be used to flash the image or the device may even have to be serial console controlled to effect the image installation.
Boot and Install: As in Debian, it is likely that a boot loader such as U-Boot has to be flashed for OpenMediaVault installation. This is a rather advanced process and it’s meant for people who are familiar with flashing different firmware.
Configure OMV: After that, it is possible to access OMV’s interface using a web browser to perform network configuration, RAID setup, among other configurations.
Advantages of OpenMediaVault:
Tailored for RAID Servers: OMV is mainly focused on NAS functionalities thus providing a very reliable and efficient way of handling files as well as other media.
Plugin Support: The plugins have a lot of customization which permits the addition of containers, media server applications such as Plex, or even virtualized disk spaces.
RAID Support and Data Safety: Offers users with distressing management and protection options on data through ODV and therefore very appealing to secured clients.
Disadvantages of OpenMediaVault:
More Heavy on Resources: Cousin of Debian, OMV can be more resource hungry on the hardware of the DNS-320, particularly when many plugins or services are employed at the same time.
Installation is Difficult Ever since The installation easy seen in Alt-F or FFP is not the case here and therefore prior installation knowledge and familiarity of boot-loaders in NAS devices is needed.
Steep Learning Curve: There is an interface provided by OMV which is fair enough, but it requires time to get used to the rest as there are other aspects which are in relation to advanced NAS which some users might not be familiar with.
Performance Comparison
Speed and Responsiveness
When it comes to trying to evaluate the different firmware options offered, one must not forget to look at the effect, they have on the overall performance and speed of the DNS-320. They are as follows:
Alt-F: Improvements in the performance metrics above the original firmware are particularly pronounced in file transfers and overall system responsiveness. The focal length at which Alt-F operates is less than that of either Debian or OMV which would be appropriate for a user seeking great performance without crippling the system.
Debian: As much as Debian is a well-architected and highly customizable program, it is less efficient especially when installing a big number of applications. This may affect the rate of file transfers and even the media up streaming as compared to Alt-F however the tradeoff is worth it since the benefits and the options are expansive and more flexible.
Fonz Fun Plug (FFP): On the bright side, FFP is light meaning it does not affect the performance of the system and consequently the users log on at almost the same speeds as that of the default firmware. At the very least, its designed for people who wish to have more but not less than the usual performance.
OpenMediaVault (OMV): OMV has many advantages in terms of features but is not easy on the system resources. Users that have many plugins running installed or utilize advanced features should be aware of some slowdowns in performance particularly for heavy tasks like rebuilding a RAID or streaming media content.
Stability and Reliability
Alt-F: It is reliable and stable on the most part for almost all users. Nonetheless, as all custom firwares, there is a small probability that bugs may be encountered, especially on the foregoing routine less used.
Debian: This really all depends on how you set up the system. Debian is indeed robust when configured appropriately, but inappropriate settings or overburdening the DNS-320 with excessive services tend to render it unreliable.
Fonz Fun Plug (FFP): FFP probably ranks a little higher up the stability ranks than the other firmware flashing options available, because this firmware does not replace the stock firmware, and rather extends, it. This also has its benefits as the system is less likely to experience bugs or crashes because it runs in conjunction with the parental system.
OpenMediaVault (OMV): OMV is also quite popular because of its stability, particularly in NAS-related workloads. However, employing a lot of plugins or doing high-load tasks may compromise stability on the congested resources of the DNS-320.
Which Firmware is the Right One For You?
Best for Newbies:
For someone who is just exploring the world of alternative firmware and is looking for a straightforward but an effective enhancement, then Alt-F would be the best option. It is an enhancement of stock firmware, but not complicated to install and configure, it provides a better web based interface, improved RAID control, and support for necessary applications.
Best for Highly Skilled Users:
For anyone with decent Linux skills who wants to do everything possible with his or her DNS-320, the most adequate firmware is Debian. It is the most flexible for the reason of being able almost to install everything and anything. Because of this, a user can transform his NAS into a full fledged server. Still, it involves complex technicalities and is quite demanding in terms of machine resources.
Best Lightweight Solution:
In case you prefer enhancing the functionality of the stock firmware without completely changing it, then Fonz Fun Plug (FFP) would be appropriate. It is also light and can be installed with ease while less important improvements such as SSH, media streaming are included without the hassle of a standard firmware overhaul.
Best In-Network Storage System Approach:
OpenMediaVault (OMV) is the right option for those users who expect an advanced Network Attached Storage (NAS) operating system with a user-friendly web management interface, a wide range of supported plugins, and a high level of RAID support. It however has higher resource requirement and in some instances, it may be too much for the hardware of the DNS-320.
Conclusive Remarks
The use of third party firmware on the D-Link DNS-320 voids the warranty but enhances its abilities, power, and range of use. For instance, you could need better management of RAID arrays, more applications, or a system that is fully customizable. There is always an option for you. Each of these types of systems – Alt-F, Debian, Fonz Fun Plug, OpenMediaVault – exhibits both strengths and weaknesses, depending on your level of expertise and goals for using that particular nas.
Whenever a piece of hardware such as the DNS-320 is upgraded with third-party firmware, it brings out hidden features. But the steps for installation should be well planned, data loss prevention strategies sought, and the risks that come with installing new firmware known. Andrew recommends that when installing different firmware, the DNS-320 can be very basic in all forms of network attached storage but it is much more than that. It comes with very advanced features which are found in expensive modern NAS devices and completely able to transform the simple network attached storage.