Installing TrueNAS SCALE on the UGREEN DXP4800 Plus NAS – Complete Step-by-Step Guide

The UGREEN DXP4800 Plus is quickly becoming one of the most popular compact NAS systems on the market, and with good reason. It offers solid hardware, quiet operation, excellent power efficiency, and plenty of storage potential. But for users who want more flexibility, more features, and greater control over their storage environment, installing TrueNAS SCALE is a superb upgrade.

In this guide, I walk you through the full process of installing TrueNAS SCALE on the UGREEN DXP4800+, replacing the stock UGOS system and transforming the unit into a capable, open-source NAS solution. Whether you're new to TrueNAS or simply looking to repurpose the DXP4800+ for homelab or business use, this tutorial covers everything you need.

🎥 Full Installation Video – Watch the Step-By-Step Guide

Why Install TrueNAS SCALE on the DXP4800 Plus?

UGREEN’s UGOS operating system is fine for basic storage needs, but TrueNAS SCALE offers a wealth of advanced features ideal for power users, homelab setups, and small businesses. By installing TrueNAS you gain access to:

• A fully open-source storage platform

• ZFS with checksums, snapshots, and replication

• Advanced file sharing (SMB, NFS, iSCSI)

• A proper permissions and ACL system

• Docker containers, apps, and virtual machines

• Better long-term flexibility and community support

The DXP4800 Plus hardware runs TrueNAS SCALE exceptionally well, making the combination a strong option for anyone wanting a more professional NAS experience.

What You’ll Need Before You Begin

To follow this installation:

• A UGREEN DXP4800+ NAS

• A USB stick for the bootable installer

• A monitor and keyboard

• The latest TrueNAS SCALE ISO

In the video, I also cover how to access the boot menu and remove the existing UGOS partitions cleanly before installing TrueNAS.

I've also covered how to backup your existing UGREEN Operating System using Clonezilla, no hardware dissassembly required, allowing you to easily restore your UGREEN NAS back to it's factory state.

Installation Overview

The full installation process is covered in detail in the video, but here’s a quick outline of what’s involved:

1. Creating the Bootable USB Installer

Download the TrueNAS SCALE ISO and write it to a USB drive using your preferred tool.

2. Accessing the Boot Menu

Power on the DXP4800+, enter the boot menu, and select the USB installer.

3. Wiping UGOS and Installing TrueNAS

You’ll be guided through selecting your installation drive, removing existing partitions, and installing a clean copy of TrueNAS SCALE.

4. Initial Network Setup

Once installed, TrueNAS provides the unit’s IP address on the console. From here, you can access the web interface for full configuration.

Configuring TrueNAS SCALE

Once you’re in the browser interface, the video takes you through essential setup steps, including:

Setting Up Storage Pools

• Selecting your disks

• Choosing a RAID layout

• Creating datasets for different use cases

Creating SMB Shares

You’ll learn how to set up Windows-friendly shares, set ACL permissions correctly, and avoid common pitfalls.

Network Configuration

Including IP assignment, enabling SSH, and improving security settings for administrative access.

User Management

Creating users, groups, and permissions that keep your NAS secure and organised.

By the end, you’ll have a fully functional TrueNAS system running on the UGREEN DXP4800+.

Testing and Validation

The tutorial also covers how to test:

• Connectivity from Windows

• File reads and writes

• Permission handling

• Share mapping

This ensures the system is ready for practical use before you begin migrating data or deploying services.

Final Thoughts

The combination of TrueNAS SCALE and the UGREEN DXP4800+ makes for an excellent storage solution, especially for those who prefer the flexibility of open-source systems and the power of ZFS. The hardware is quiet, efficient, and well-built, and TrueNAS unlocks its full potential. Especially with the memory upgrade options, and the option to add additional NVME drives to the UGREEN DXP 4800 Plus.

If you're looking to build a reliable NAS for home, business, or homelab projects, this setup is well worth considering.

Feel free to leave a comment on the video if you have any questions, or get in touch via the Sheridan Computers website for professional support or consultancy.