Getting both the units up and running is the exact same process, and both are a very straightforward process. After installing the hard drives and connecting the NAS to the network, we installed the UGREEN desktop app (because our firewall was preventing the web link install from finding either unit). The installation wizard guides you through the entire process, including firmware updates, administrator account creation, storage pool configuration, and volume creation. The interface provides clear explanations throughout, making it approachable for first-time NAS users without becoming restrictive for those already familiar with network storage. From powering on the unit to reaching the UGOS Pro desktop took only a matter of minutes, and the guided setup removed much of the complexity traditionally associated with configuring a NAS for the first time.
Once the initial configuration is complete, UGOS Pro presents a clean desktop-style interface that feels more like a conventional operating system than a typical web management portal. Navigation is intuitive, with applications displayed as desktop icons and settings grouped logically within an easy-to-understand Control Panel. During testing, the interface remained responsive, with menus opening quickly and system changes being applied without noticeable delays. Users familiar with Windows or Linux desktop environments will feel comfortable almost immediately, while newcomers benefit from built-in tutorials that explain storage management, RAID configuration, and other core functions as they begin using the system. Although the native application catalogue is still smaller than some long-established competitors, the overall polish of the operating system has improved considerably and provides a pleasant day-to-day experience.
UGOS Pro includes a comprehensive collection of storage and networking features designed for both home and professional users. User and group management, shared folders, snapshots, storage pools, scheduled backups, and remote access are all integrated into the operating system, while UGREENlink provides secure remote connectivity without requiring manual port forwarding. Docker support significantly extends the platform's capabilities by allowing applications such as Plex, Jellyfin, Home Assistant, Immich, and many other self-hosted services to be deployed through containers. Networking is equally well catered for, with straightforward configuration of the dual 10GbE interfaces, support for Link Aggregation, jumbo frames, VLAN configuration, and multiple network management options directly within the interface. Storage configuration is equally flexible, supporting RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, JBOD, and Basic volumes, allowing users to prioritise either performance, capacity, or data protection depending on their requirements.
Having completed a full installation and spent time exploring the operating system, UGOS Pro leaves a positive impression. The combination of a simple installation process, responsive user interface, and sensible layout means very little time is spent learning where features are located. Most commonly used functions are readily accessible, while more advanced capabilities remain available for users wanting to build virtual machines, Docker environments, or more complex storage configurations. Although the software ecosystem continues to grow and still trails some of the more mature NAS platforms in terms of native applications, the underlying operating system feels stable, well-designed, and perfectly capable of supporting both everyday file storage and considerably more demanding workloads. Combined with both DXP2800 and DXP4800 GT's modern hardware platform and high-speed networking, the overall user experience is both polished and very enjoyable.
