Complete RAID Array Recovery Guide for NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR Data

Has your NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR 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?

Complete RAID Array Recovery Guide for NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR Data
Data Recovery Tool

Buffalo DriveStation DDR 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 DriveStation DDR. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

Complete RAID Array Recovery Guide for NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR Data

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.

Are there any recommended steps to take after detecting or suspecting data loss on a NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR device?

If you suspect or detect data loss on a NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR device, here are some recommended steps to take:

  1. Stop using the DriveStation: As soon as you suspect data loss, stop using the device to prevent further damage or overwriting of the lost data. Continuing to use the DriveStation may reduce the chances of successful data recovery.
  2. Check connections and power supply: Ensure that all cables are properly connected and the power supply is functioning correctly. Sometimes, data loss can occur due to loose connections or power issues.
  3. Restart the DriveStation: Try restarting the device to see if it resolves any temporary issues causing data loss. Sometimes, a simple reboot can fix minor glitches.
  4. Contact Buffalo support: Reach out to Buffalo support for assistance. They may provide specific troubleshooting steps or recommend professional data recovery services.
  5. Data recovery software: If the data loss is due to logical issues rather than physical damage, you can try using data recovery software. Install a reputable data recovery tool on a separate computer and connect the DriveStation as an external drive to scan and recover lost files. However, be cautious as improper use of such software can further damage the data.
  6. Professional data recovery services: If the data loss is severe, involves physical damage, or you are unable to recover the data using software, it's best to seek professional data recovery services. These experts have specialized tools and expertise to recover data from damaged or corrupted devices.

Remember, data recovery success rates vary depending on the extent of damage and the actions taken after data loss. It's crucial to act quickly, avoid further damage, and consider professional help if needed.

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

Although the NAS DriveStation DDR 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 DriveStation DDR. 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

DriveStation DDR 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 DriveStation DDR 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 DriveStation DDR, feel free to leave a comment!
    Reply
  • Colton Goodburn
    Colton Goodburn 31.08.2023 00:43 #
    Is it possible to recover data from a NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR device that has been infected by malware or viruses?
    Reply
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 31.08.2023 02:00 #

      Yes, it is possible to recover data from a NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR device that has been infected by malware or viruses. However, the process may be more complicated and time-consuming compared to recovering data from an uninfected device.

      Here are some steps you can take to recover data from an infected NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR:

      1. Disconnect the infected device from the network: This will help prevent the malware from spreading to other devices on the network.
      2. Scan the device with antivirus software: Use a reliable and up-to-date antivirus program to scan the NAS DriveStation DDR for malware or viruses. This may help in removing or quarantining the infected files.
      3. Remove the malware or virus: If the antivirus software detects any malware or viruses, follow the recommended steps to remove them. This may involve deleting or quarantining infected files.
      4. Restore from backup: If you have a recent backup of the data stored on the NAS DriveStation DDR, restore the data from the backup. This will ensure that you have clean and uninfected copies of your files.
      5. Professional data recovery services: If you don't have a backup or if the backup is also infected, you may need to seek professional data recovery services. They have specialized tools and expertise to recover data from infected storage devices. Be sure to choose a reputable and reliable data recovery service provider.

      Remember to take preventive measures to protect your NAS DriveStation DDR from future malware or virus infections. This includes regularly updating the firmware, using strong passwords, and installing security patches.

      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 benefits of adding an additional hard drive to a NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR?

    Adding an additional hard drive to a NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR can provide several benefits, including:

    1. Increased storage capacity: The additional hard drive allows you to expand the overall storage capacity of your NAS device. This is particularly useful if you are running out of space on your existing hard drive and need to store more data.
    2. Data redundancy and protection: By configuring the additional hard drive as a RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) array, you can achieve data redundancy. This means that if one hard drive fails, your data will still be accessible and protected on the other drive(s). This helps to prevent data loss in case of a hardware failure.
    3. Improved performance: With multiple hard drives, you can configure the NAS in RAID 0 mode, which combines the storage capacity of all drives and improves read and write speeds. This can result in faster data transfer rates and improved overall performance.
    4. Flexibility and scalability: Adding an additional hard drive allows for future expansion and scalability. As your storage needs grow, you can easily add more hard drives to the NAS device, providing a flexible and scalable storage solution.
    5. Simplified backup and data management: With multiple hard drives, you can set up automatic backups and implement data management strategies such as mirroring or data striping. This simplifies the backup process and ensures that your data is protected and easily accessible.
    6. Load balancing and improved network performance: By distributing data across multiple hard drives, you can balance the load and reduce the strain on a single drive. This can help to improve network performance and prevent bottlenecks when multiple users are accessing the NAS simultaneously.

    Overall, adding an additional hard drive to a NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR enhances storage capacity, data protection, performance, and flexibility, making it a valuable upgrade for users with growing storage needs.

  • How do I properly install and configure an additional hard drive for my NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR?

    To properly install and configure an additional hard drive for your NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR, follow these steps:

    1. Power off your NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR and unplug the power cable.
    2. Open the enclosure by removing any screws or latches on the back or sides.
    3. Locate the empty drive bay where you want to install the additional hard drive.
    4. Carefully connect the SATA data cable and power cable to the corresponding ports on the hard drive.
    5. Slide the hard drive into the empty drive bay and secure it using screws or latches.
    6. Close the enclosure and tighten any screws to ensure it is properly sealed.
    7. Plug in the power cable and turn on the NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR.
    8. Access the NAS management interface by typing the IP address of the device into a web browser.
    9. Login to the management interface using your administrator credentials.
    10. Navigate to the storage settings or disk management section of the interface.
    11. Look for an option to add or initialize the newly installed hard drive.
    12. Follow the on-screen instructions to configure the hard drive, such as selecting a RAID level or formatting the drive.
    13. Once the configuration is complete, the additional hard drive should be recognized and available for use in your NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR.

    Note: The specific steps may vary slightly depending on the model and firmware version of your NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR. It is recommended to refer to the user manual or documentation provided by Buffalo for detailed instructions.

  • Are there any specific compatibility requirements or limitations when adding an additional hard drive to a NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR?

    When adding an additional hard drive to a NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR, there are a few compatibility requirements and limitations to consider:

    1. Drive Type: The Buffalo DriveStation DDR typically supports SATA hard drives. Ensure that the additional hard drive you intend to add is a compatible SATA drive.
    2. Drive Capacity: The NAS may have limitations on the maximum drive capacity it can support. Check the product specifications or user manual to determine the maximum supported capacity for additional drives.
    3. RAID Configuration: If you plan to configure the NAS in a RAID setup, ensure that the new hard drive is compatible with the RAID configuration you intend to use. Some NAS devices may have specific requirements for RAID compatibility.
    4. Firmware Compatibility: Ensure that the firmware of the NAS is up to date. Sometimes, firmware updates may add support for newer hard drives or fix compatibility issues.

    It is always recommended to consult the product documentation or contact Buffalo customer support for specific compatibility requirements and limitations when adding an additional hard drive to a NAS Buffalo DriveStation DDR.
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