Accessing RAID Files When NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L Device Is Unresponsive

Has your NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L 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?

Accessing RAID Files When NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L Device Is Unresponsive

Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L 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 LinkStation LS-CH640L. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

Accessing RAID Files When NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L Device Is Unresponsive

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.

How can the number of drives in a NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L device's RAID array impact data recovery and potential loss?

The number of drives in a RAID array can impact data recovery and potential loss in a NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L device in the following ways:

  1. Data redundancy: RAID arrays are designed to provide redundancy by distributing data across multiple drives. The more drives in the array, the higher the level of redundancy, which helps protect against data loss. For example, in a RAID 1 (mirroring) configuration with two drives, if one drive fails, the other drive still contains a complete copy of the data. However, if there are more drives in the array, such as in RAID 5 or RAID 6 configurations, the array can tolerate multiple drive failures without losing data.
  2. Performance: The number of drives can also impact the performance of the RAID array. In general, more drives can provide higher read and write speeds, allowing for faster data access. However, the performance improvement may not be linear with the number of drives, and other factors like the RAID level and the NAS device's hardware capabilities also play a role.
  3. Rebuild time: When a drive fails in a RAID array, the data from the failed drive needs to be rebuilt onto a new drive to restore redundancy. The time required to rebuild the array depends on the size of the drives and the amount of data stored. With a larger number of drives, the rebuild time can be longer, increasing the vulnerability to potential data loss during the rebuild process. If another drive fails during the rebuild, it can lead to data loss.
  4. Probability of drive failure: The more drives in a RAID array, the higher the probability of drive failure. Each drive has a certain failure rate, and as the number of drives increases, so does the likelihood of at least one drive failing. This increases the risk of data loss if the array is not properly protected or regularly backed up.

In summary, having more drives in a RAID array can provide higher data redundancy and potentially better performance. However, it also increases the complexity of data recovery and the risk of data loss during drive failures or rebuild processes. It is important to regularly back up the data and ensure proper maintenance and monitoring of the NAS device to mitigate these risks.

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

Although the NAS LinkStation LS-CH640L 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 LinkStation LS-CH640L. 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

LinkStation LS-CH640L 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 LinkStation LS-CH640L 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 LinkStation LS-CH640L, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Armand Woodruff
    Armand Woodruff 30.08.2023 21:56 #
    Is it possible to recover data from a NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L device if the device is experiencing frequent disconnections or network errors?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 30.08.2023 22:59 #

      It is possible to recover data from a NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L device even if the device is experiencing frequent disconnections or network errors. However, the process may vary depending on the specific issue causing the disconnections or errors.

      Here are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially recover data from the device:

      1. Check the network connection: Ensure that the network cables are securely connected, and try using a different cable or port on your router. Also, verify that your network settings are correct and that the NAS is properly configured to connect to your network.
      2. Restart the device: Power off the NAS, unplug it from the power source, wait for a few minutes, and then plug it back in. This can help resolve temporary network issues or software glitches.
      3. Update firmware: Check if there are any firmware updates available for your Buffalo LinkStation model and install them. Firmware updates often address known issues and improve device stability.
      4. Access the NAS locally: If possible, try connecting to the NAS directly using a computer on the same network. This can help determine if the issue is specific to the network connection or the NAS itself.
      5. Use data recovery software: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, you can try using data recovery software specifically designed for NAS devices. These tools can help recover data from a malfunctioning NAS by scanning the hard drives directly.
      6. Professional data recovery service: If the data on the NAS is critical and the above steps do not work, you may need to consult a professional data recovery service. They have specialized tools and expertise to recover data from faulty NAS devices.

      Remember to always backup your important data regularly to avoid data loss in the future.

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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 different security features available on the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L for file access?

    The NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L offers several security features for file access, including:

    1. User and Group Management: The device allows you to create multiple users and groups with different access privileges. You can assign read-only or read-write permissions to specific folders or files for each user or group.
    2. Password Protection: Each user has a unique login ID and password to access the NAS device. This ensures that only authorized users can access the files stored on the device.
    3. Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) Encryption: The LinkStation LS-CH640L supports SSL encryption for secure communication between the NAS device and connected devices. This helps protect data transmission from unauthorized access or interception.
    4. Active Directory Integration: The NAS device can be integrated with an existing Active Directory (AD) domain. This allows users to log in using their AD credentials, simplifying user management and enhancing security.
    5. IP Address Filtering: You can restrict access to the NAS device by specifying a list of allowed IP addresses or IP address ranges. This helps prevent unauthorized access from external networks.
    6. Firewall Protection: The NAS device has a built-in firewall that helps protect it from unauthorized access attempts or malicious attacks.
    7. Scheduled Backup and Replication: The LinkStation LS-CH640L supports scheduled backups and replication to external storage devices or other NAS devices. This ensures data redundancy and protects against data loss.
    8. Drive Encryption: The NAS device supports drive encryption, allowing you to encrypt the entire storage volume. This ensures that even if the drives are physically removed from the device, the data remains protected.
    9. Event Notifications: The device can send email notifications to administrators or users when specific events occur, such as failed login attempts or changes to file permissions. This helps monitor and track any potential security breaches.

    These security features help ensure that the file access on the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L is secure and protected from unauthorized access or data breaches.

  • How does the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L ensure secure remote access to files stored on the device?

    The NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L ensures secure remote access to files stored on the device through various security measures:

    1. VPN Support: It supports Virtual Private Network (VPN) connections, allowing users to create a secure and encrypted connection to access files remotely. VPNs provide a secure tunnel for data transmission over the internet, making it difficult for unauthorized users to intercept or access the data.
    2. Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)/Transport Layer Security (TLS): The LinkStation LS-CH640L uses SSL/TLS encryption protocols to establish a secure connection between the device and the remote user. SSL/TLS encrypts the data transmission, ensuring that the files are protected from eavesdropping and unauthorized access.
    3. User Authentication: The device requires user authentication before granting remote access to files. Users need to provide valid login credentials, including a username and password, to access the files remotely. This prevents unauthorized users from accessing the device and its stored files.
    4. Firewall Protection: The LinkStation LS-CH640L has built-in firewall capabilities that help protect the device from unauthorized access and potential attacks. It monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic, filtering and blocking any suspicious or malicious activity, thus ensuring the security of remote access.
    5. Access Control Lists (ACLs): The device allows users to set up Access Control Lists, which define specific permissions and restrictions for different users or user groups. This enables users to control and limit remote access to specific files or folders, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access sensitive data.
    6. Firmware Updates: Buffalo periodically releases firmware updates for their devices, including the LinkStation LS-CH640L. These updates often include security patches and enhancements, addressing any vulnerabilities or weaknesses that could compromise the secure remote access to files. It is essential to keep the device's firmware up to date to ensure optimal security.

    By implementing these security measures, the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L ensures secure remote access to files stored on the device, protecting them from unauthorized access and maintaining data confidentiality.

  • Can the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L be integrated with existing authentication systems for enhanced file access security?

    Yes, the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-CH640L can be integrated with existing authentication systems for enhanced file access security. The device supports various authentication methods such as Active Directory, LDAP, and user/group management. By integrating with existing authentication systems, you can enforce user authentication and access control policies, ensuring that only authorized users can access the files stored on the NAS.