Restoring a RAID Array on NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 with Multiple Faulty Disks

Has your NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 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?

Restoring a RAID Array on NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 with Multiple Faulty Disks
Data Recovery Tool

Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 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-WL4TSU2R1. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

Restoring a RAID Array on NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 with Multiple Faulty Disks

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.

Can implementing user quotas or permissions help prevent accidental data loss on NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 devices?

Yes, implementing user quotas and permissions can help prevent accidental data loss on NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 devices. User quotas allow administrators to set limits on the amount of storage space each user can utilize on the NAS device. This helps prevent a single user from consuming all available storage and potentially causing data loss.

Additionally, setting appropriate permissions ensures that only authorized users have access to specific files and folders on the NAS device. By granting read, write, or delete permissions only to the necessary users, accidental data loss due to unauthorized modifications or deletions can be minimized.

By combining user quotas and permissions, administrators can create a secure and controlled environment for data storage and access, reducing the risk of accidental data loss on NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 devices.

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

Although the NAS Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 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-WL4TSU2R1. 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-WL4TSU2R1 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-WL4TSU2R1 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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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-WL4TSU2R1, feel free to leave a comment!
    Reply
  • Vicary Upton
    Vicary Upton 27.08.2023 21:48 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 device be performed if there are issues with the storage controller?
    Reply
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 27.08.2023 21:59 #

      Yes, data recovery can still be performed on a NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 device even if there are issues with the storage controller. In such cases, the data recovery process may involve bypassing the storage controller and accessing the hard drives directly. This can be done by removing the hard drives from the NAS enclosure and connecting them to a different system or using specialized data recovery tools. It is recommended to seek professional assistance from a data recovery service provider who has experience with NAS devices to ensure the best chance of successful data recovery.

      Reply
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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 are the advantages of using a NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 compared to regular external hard drives?

    There are several advantages of using a NAS Buffalo DriveStation HD-WL4TSU2R1 compared to regular external hard drives:

    1. Network Accessibility: The NAS DriveStation is connected to a network, allowing multiple users to access and share files simultaneously. It can be accessed from multiple devices like computers, laptops, smartphones, or tablets, making it convenient for collaborative work or remote access.
    2. Centralized Storage: With a NAS DriveStation, you can consolidate all your files and data in one central location. This makes it easier to organize and manage your data, as well as back it up regularly.
    3. Data Redundancy: NAS devices often support RAID configurations, which provide data redundancy. This means that if one hard drive fails, your data is still protected and accessible from other drives in the NAS. Regular external hard drives do not offer this level of redundancy.
    4. Scalability: NAS DriveStations often have multiple drive bays, allowing you to add or replace hard drives as per your storage needs. This scalability makes it easier to expand your storage capacity without the need for additional external drives.
    5. Enhanced Data Security: NAS devices usually offer advanced security features like user access controls, encryption, and remote data wiping. These features help protect your data from unauthorized access or loss, which may not be available or as robust in regular external hard drives.
    6. Additional Features: NAS DriveStations often come with additional features like built-in media servers, backup software, and remote access capabilities. These features enhance the functionality and usability of the device, providing a more comprehensive storage solution.

    Overall, the NAS Buffalo DriveStation HD-WL4TSU2R1 offers the advantages of network accessibility, centralized storage, data redundancy, scalability, enhanced security, and additional features, making it a more versatile and efficient storage solution compared to regular external hard drives.

  • How does a NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 provide better data storage and accessibility compared to traditional external hard drives?

    The NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 provides better data storage and accessibility compared to traditional external hard drives in several ways:

    1. Network Attached Storage (NAS) Functionality: The Buffalo Drive Station is designed as a NAS device, which means it can be connected to a network and accessed by multiple devices simultaneously. This allows for easy sharing and collaboration of data among multiple users or devices within a network, such as computers, laptops, smartphones, or tablets.
    2. Centralized Storage: Unlike traditional external hard drives that are typically connected to a single computer, the Buffalo Drive Station acts as a centralized storage solution for the entire network. It provides a central repository for all data, making it easier to manage and access files from any connected device.
    3. Increased Storage Capacity: The Buffalo Drive Station usually offers larger storage capacities compared to traditional external hard drives. It can have multiple hard drives installed, allowing for terabytes of storage space. This is especially beneficial for businesses or individuals dealing with large amounts of data, such as media files, backups, or archives.
    4. Redundancy and Data Protection: The Buffalo Drive Station often supports various RAID configurations, such as RAID 1 or RAID 5. RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) provides data redundancy and protection against drive failures. If one drive fails, the data can still be accessed from the remaining drives. This ensures data integrity and reduces the risk of data loss.
    5. Remote Access and Cloud Integration: Many NAS devices, including the Buffalo Drive Station, offer remote access functionality. This means that users can access their data from anywhere using an internet connection. Additionally, some NAS devices provide integration with cloud storage services, enabling seamless synchronization and backup of data to popular cloud platforms like Dropbox or Google Drive.
    6. Advanced File Management Features: NAS devices often come with advanced file management features like user and group permissions, file versioning, or file syncing. These features enhance data security, collaboration, and organization, making it easier to manage and control access to files and folders.

    Overall, the NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 provides better data storage and accessibility compared to traditional external hard drives by offering network connectivity, centralized storage, larger capacities, data protection, remote access, and advanced file management features.

  • In what ways does a NAS Buffalo Drive Station HD-WL4TSU2R1 offer enhanced security and backup features that regular external hard drives lack?

    The NAS Buffalo DriveStation HD-WL4TSU2R1 offers several enhanced security and backup features that regular external hard drives lack. Some of these features include:

    1. RAID Support: The DriveStation supports RAID configurations, allowing you to set up data redundancy and improve data protection. RAID levels such as RAID 1 (mirroring) or RAID 5 (striping with parity) can help protect against data loss in case of drive failure.
    2. Network Attached Storage (NAS) Functionality: Unlike regular external hard drives, the DriveStation is a NAS device that connects to your network, enabling multiple users to access and share files simultaneously. This centralized storage solution allows for easy collaboration and data sharing.
    3. Data Encryption: The DriveStation supports hardware-based AES 256-bit encryption, which ensures that your data is securely stored and protected from unauthorized access. This feature is particularly useful for sensitive or confidential information.
    4. Scheduled Backup: The DriveStation offers scheduled backup options, allowing you to automatically back up your data at specific intervals. This feature ensures that your files are regularly and consistently backed up, reducing the risk of data loss.
    5. Remote Access: With the DriveStation, you can access your files remotely over the internet. This feature enables you to securely access and manage your data from anywhere, providing convenience and flexibility.
    6. Hot Swap Functionality: The DriveStation supports hot swapping, which means you can replace a failed drive without shutting down the system. This feature minimizes downtime and enhances data availability.
    7. Active Directory Integration: The DriveStation can integrate with Active Directory, enabling seamless user authentication and access control. This integration simplifies user management and enhances security by leveraging existing network infrastructure.

    Overall, the NAS Buffalo DriveStation HD-WL4TSU2R1 offers advanced security and backup features that regular external hard drives lack, making it a reliable and comprehensive solution for data storage and protection.
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