How to Fix Multiple Disk Failures in a NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1 RAID Array

Has your NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1 suddenly lost its network drive and you’re unsure what to do next? Did the RAID array collapse, making your files inaccessible? Is the device throwing errors during startup? Perhaps you accidentally rebuilt the RAID array or several hard drives failed at the same time?

How to Fix Multiple Disk Failures in a NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1 RAID Array

Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1 NAS Data Recovery in 2025

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from an Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

How to Fix Multiple Disk Failures in a NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1 RAID Array

RAID Recovery™ 2.8
Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.
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Why Regular Data Recovery Tools Can’t Restore Files from RAID

Conventional hard drives store user data by writing it sequentially across the disk surface, which means an entire file is typically located on a single drive. In contrast, when data is written to a RAID array, each file is split into multiple fragments. These fragments are then distributed and written in sequence across all the drives in the array. Depending on the configuration, fragment sizes can range from 2 KB to 2 MB, so every file is physically stored across several disks at once.

This approach significantly increases read and write performance — after all, writing two halves of a 1 GB file to two drives simultaneously is much faster than writing the full 1 GB to a single disk. However, this same mechanism makes file recovery far more complex.

Different RAID levels use different methods to distribute and protect data. On top of that, manufacturers like Buffalo often add their own proprietary structures and variations. As a result, data can be written to disks in many different formats, and each requires a specific approach during recovery.

Is there a risk of data loss if a NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1 device is physically damaged or stolen?

Yes, there is a risk of data loss if a NAS Buffalo DriveStation HD-WL2TU3R1 device is physically damaged or stolen. If the device is damaged, the internal hard drive may become inaccessible, leading to potential data loss. Similarly, if the device is stolen, the data stored on the device can be compromised or lost entirely. It is important to regularly backup the data stored on the NAS device to an external location or cloud storage to mitigate the risk of data loss in such situations.

How to Remove Hard Disks from Your NAS and Connect Them to a PC

Although the NAS Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1 can be accessed over the network, you still need to remove its hard disks and connect them directly to a Windows PC. Only then can the recovery software properly scan and analyze the drives. Follow these steps:

  1. Power off the NAS and disconnect it from the power source.

    WARNING! Before removing any drives, carefully read the device manual. Improper actions may damage both the NAS enclosure and the hard disks in the RAID array.

  2. Remove the hard disks one by one, gently sliding each drive out of its slot. Remember that hard disks are highly sensitive: any impact or drop can cause serious physical damage.

  3. Label each hard disk according to its position inside the NAS. The order of the drives is crucial for correct RAID reconstruction.

  4. Connect the drives to your computer. In this video, we explain which ports you can use to connect hard disks and what to do if your PC does not have enough free connectors.

    Go to view
    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

Step-by-Step Data Recovery with Hetman RAID Recovery

Hetman Raid Recovery

This program restores data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1. Each hard disk in the array contains technical metadata describing how files were written. When launched, Hetman RAID Recovery analyzes this metadata, automatically reconstructs the damaged array, and provides access to its contents. After that, you can browse the recovered disk and save your files. The program can also restore files that were accidentally deleted from the network drive.

Go to view
How to recover data from a Buffalo

How to recover data from a Buffalo

Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1 has 1 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 0;
  • RAID 1;
  • JBOD;

NAS supports:

  • exFAT, VFAT, FAT 12 / 16 / 32;
  • NTFS / ReFS;
  • APFS / HFS+;
  • Ext2 / 3 / 4 / ReiserFS / XFS / UFS / ZFS / Btrfs;
  • VMFS / HikvisionFS;

How to Safely Recover Data from Disk Images

This utility allows you to create a complete copy of a disk and work with the disk image instead of the physical drive. This approach helps protect your data from:

  • Overwriting during the recovery process;
  • Additional data loss caused by bad sectors;
  • User errors.

To create a disk image, follow these steps:

  1. Ensure you have enough free space to store the image. Its size will typically match the size of the original disk.

  2. In the main window, select the target disk and choose Tools - Save Disk. You can also select multiple disks if needed.

  3. When the Image Creation Wizard opens, select whether you want to save the entire disk or only a specific region. Adjust the settings and click Next.

    Hetman RAID Recovery: Image Creation Wizard
  4. Choose the directory where the image will be saved. You may select any available disk connected to your PC or upload the image via FTP.

    Hetman RAID Recovery: Choose a disk or save the image via FTP

Where Are the User’s Files Actually Stored?

The Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1 network-attached storage keeps OS Linux operating system files on a separate RAID 1 (mirrored) array. Usually, all NAS systems create several volumes on every hard disk, and the first of them takes up to 2 Gb of space. This is where operating system files are stored. Other volumes are united into a RAID array where user’s data is written.

RAID Recovery Software: Detailed Comparison

Product Operating system RAID controller support Supported file systems Virtual RAID controller support Data recovery from damaged RAID File preview
Hetman RAID Recovery Windows, Linux, MacOS Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, exFAT, NTFS, ReFS, APFS, HFS+, Ext4, Ext3, Ext2, ReiserFS, Btrfs, VMFS, Hikvision, XFS, UFS, ZFS Yes Yes Yes
DiskInternals RAID Recovery Windows Yes, over 10 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
R-Studio Windows, Mac, Linux Yes, over 20 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
UFS Explorer RAID Recovery Windows, Mac, Linux Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
EaseUS Data Recovery Windows Yes, over 20 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
ReclaiMe Free RAID Recovery Windows Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes

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We will be happy to answer your questions!

Comments (3)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 9.08.2022 12:31 #
    If you want to ask a question about data recovery, from NAS Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Hedworth Hudspeth
    Hedworth Hudspeth 27.08.2023 21:41 #
    Are there any software tools available for data recovery from NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 27.08.2023 22:00 #

      Yes, there are several software tools available for data recovery from a NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1. Some popular options include:

      1. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: This software can recover deleted, formatted, or lost data from various storage devices, including NAS drives.
      2. Recuva: Recuva is a free data recovery tool that can recover files from a wide range of storage devices, including NAS drives.
      3. R-Studio: R-Studio is a comprehensive data recovery software that supports NAS drives and can recover data from various file systems.
      4. Stellar Data Recovery: Stellar Data Recovery is a powerful tool that can recover data from NAS drives, including Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1.

      It's important to note that data recovery success depends on various factors, such as the extent of data loss and the condition of the drive. It's recommended to stop using the drive immediately after data loss and consult a professional data recovery service if the data is critical.

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Vladimir Artiukh

Author: Vladimir Artiukh, Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: Oleg Afonin, Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

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Questions and answers

  • What is DLNA and how does it work?

    DLNA stands for Digital Living Network Alliance. It is a set of guidelines and standards that enable the sharing and streaming of digital media content between different devices within a home network. DLNA allows devices such as smartphones, tablets, computers, TVs, and audio systems to communicate and share media files seamlessly.

    DLNA works by establishing a network connection between DLNA-certified devices. These devices must be connected to the same local area network (LAN) or Wi-Fi network. Once connected, DLNA devices can discover and communicate with each other using the Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) protocol.

    When a DLNA device wants to share media, it acts as a server, making its media files available to other devices on the network. Other devices, acting as clients, can then browse and access the available media files from the server. This allows users to stream videos, music, and photos stored on one device to another device, such as streaming a movie from a computer to a smart TV.

    DLNA supports various media formats and codecs, ensuring compatibility between different devices. It also allows for control and playback of media files using a remote control or a dedicated app on a smartphone or tablet.

    Overall, DLNA simplifies the process of sharing and streaming media content within a home network, enabling users to enjoy their digital media on different devices throughout their home.

  • How does a NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1 utilize DLNA protocol to enhance media sharing and streaming capabilities?

    The NAS Buffalo DriveStation HD-WL2TU3R1 utilizes the DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) protocol to enhance media sharing and streaming capabilities in the following ways:

    1. Media Server: The NAS DriveStation acts as a DLNA media server, allowing you to store and organize your media files such as photos, videos, and music in a central location. The DLNA protocol enables the DriveStation to make these files accessible to other DLNA-certified devices on the same network.
    2. Media Sharing: With DLNA, you can easily share your media files across different devices. The DriveStation can stream media to DLNA-enabled devices like smart TVs, game consoles, smartphones, and tablets. This means you can access and enjoy your media content from various devices without the need for manual file transfers.
    3. Media Streaming: The DLNA protocol ensures seamless streaming of media files from the DriveStation to DLNA-certified devices. You can stream high-definition videos, play music, and view photos directly from the DriveStation to your TV or other compatible devices. DLNA ensures that the media is streamed in a format that is supported by the receiving device, ensuring smooth playback.
    4. Remote Access: DLNA allows you to access your media files remotely over the internet. By configuring the necessary settings, you can access your DriveStation's media content from outside your home network. This means you can stream your media files even when you are away from home, as long as you have an internet connection.

    Overall, the NAS Buffalo DriveStation HD-WL2TU3R1 leverages the DLNA protocol to provide a convenient and efficient way of sharing and streaming media content across multiple devices, enhancing the overall media experience.

  • Can you explain the key features and benefits of DLNA integration in the NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL2TU3R1?

    The NAS Buffalo DriveStation HD-WL2TU3R1 offers DLNA integration, which stands for Digital Living Network Alliance. DLNA is a technology standard that allows different devices on a network to share and stream media files seamlessly. Here are the key features and benefits of DLNA integration in this NAS:

    1. Media Streaming: DLNA integration enables the NAS to act as a media server, allowing you to stream various types of media files such as photos, videos, and music to DLNA-certified devices. You can easily access and enjoy your media content on compatible TVs, gaming consoles, smartphones, and tablets.
    2. Easy Setup: The Buffalo DriveStation HD-WL2TU3R1 NAS is designed to be user-friendly, allowing for easy setup and configuration of DLNA. You can simply connect the NAS to your home network and configure the DLNA settings through the device's web interface. Once set up, it will automatically detect DLNA devices on the network.
    3. Centralized Media Storage: With DLNA integration, the NAS acts as a centralized storage location for all your media files. You can store your entire media library on the NAS, freeing up space on your individual devices. This allows for easy organization and access to your media content from any DLNA-enabled device within your network.
    4. Multi-Device Compatibility: DLNA integration ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices from different manufacturers. Whether you have a smart TV, game console, smartphone, or tablet, as long as it is DLNA-certified, you can stream media content from the NAS without any compatibility issues.
    5. Remote Access: Some NAS models, including the Buffalo DriveStation HD-WL2TU3R1, offer remote access capabilities. This means that you can access your media files stored on the NAS from anywhere using DLNA-compatible devices. You can stream your media content even when you are away from home, as long as you have an internet connection.
    6. Enhanced Media Management: DLNA integration allows for easy management of your media files. You can create playlists, organize your files into folders, and even access advanced features like metadata retrieval and media transcoding. This ensures that your media content is organized, easily searchable, and optimized for playback on different devices.

    Overall, DLNA integration in the NAS Buffalo DriveStation HD-WL2TU3R1 offers seamless media streaming, centralized storage, multi-device compatibility, remote access, and enhanced media management capabilities, making it a versatile solution for media enthusiasts.