How to recover data from Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL NAS

Is your network drive gone, and you are wondering what to do? Has a RAID system crashed, and your files are no longer accessible? Does your device display an error while booting? Have you accidentally rebuilt your RAID system? Are several hard disks out of order?

How to recover data from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL

Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from LinkStation LS-V2.0TL.

How to recover data from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL

Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.

Why can’t ordinary software tools restore files from RAID?

Conventional hard disks keep user’s data by writing it to their surface in a consecutive way, and this is how an entire file is stored on a single hard disk. However, when data is written to a RAID system, a file is divided into several parts. Then these parts are written consecutively to all hard disks within such array. The size of such parts may range from 2 KB to 2 MB, so each file is stored on several hard disks at the same time.

Such approach helps to speed up read and write operations, and it is evident that saving two parts of a file having the size of 1 GB to two hard disks simultaneously is much faster than saving the same 1 GB of data to one hard disk. However, this peculiarity makes file recovery more complicated.

Various RAID levels store information in different ways. Additionally, manufacturers like Buffalo also introduce some modifications to this process, and that is why data can be written to hard disk in a wide variety of ways.

How does a NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL device store and manage data?

The NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL device stores and manages data through a combination of hardware and software components. Here is a general overview of how it works:

  1. Storage Drives: The device typically comes with one or more internal hard drives. These drives provide the physical storage space for data. The LS-V2.0TL model, for example, has a total capacity of 2 terabytes (TB).
  2. RAID Configuration: The drives can be configured in different RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) levels, such as RAID 0, RAID 1, or JBOD (Just a Bunch of Disks). RAID provides various levels of data redundancy and performance improvements. For example, RAID 1 mirrors the data across multiple drives to ensure data integrity even if one drive fails.
  3. Network Connectivity: The LinkStation connects to the local network via an Ethernet port. This allows other devices on the network to access the stored data.
  4. Operating System and Software: The LinkStation runs a built-in operating system specifically designed for NAS devices. Buffalo uses its own proprietary firmware, which provides the necessary functionality for data management and network access. The firmware includes features like file sharing, user management, remote access, and backup options.
  5. File System: The LinkStation typically uses a file system like NTFS or FAT32 to organize and manage the data on the storage drives. The file system allows for file and folder creation, deletion, and modification.
  6. Data Management: Users can access the LinkStation through various methods, including a web-based graphical user interface (GUI) or dedicated software provided by Buffalo. These interfaces allow users to create folders, upload and download files, and manage permissions for different users or groups.
  7. Data Protection: The LinkStation often includes built-in features for data protection, such as scheduled backups, replication to another NAS device, or cloud backup options. These features help safeguard the data against accidental loss or hardware failures.

Overall, the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL device combines hardware storage drives, RAID configurations, network connectivity, a specialized operating system, and software interfaces to store and manage data effectively.

How to take hard disks out of the NAS and connect them to a PC?

Although NAS LinkStation LS-V2.0TL can be accessed over the network, you still need to take the hard disks out of the storage device and connect them to a Windows computer. Only in this case will the software be able to scan them properly. Here is what you should do:

  1. Turn off the storage and disconnect it from the power supply.

    WARNING! Before you start taking hard disks out of your NAS device, read the manual carefully. Incorrect actions may damage your network-attached storage and/or the hard disks within the RAID system.

  2. Take the hard disks out of the NAS one by one, carefully removing them from their slots. Remember that the disks are extremely vulnerable: hitting or dropping them may result in serious physical damage.

  3. Make sure to mark each hard disk in accordance with how they were installed inside the NAS.

  4. Remove the hard disks and connect them to the computer. In this video, we have explored what ports are used to connect hard disks, and what to do if there are not enough ports or connectors.

    Go to view
    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

Restoring data with Hetman RAID Recovery

Hetman Raid Recovery

This program recovers data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL. The hard disks that make up the RAID contain technical information about the algorithm used to save files. When launched, Hetman RAID Recovery reads this information and puts the damaged array together. Then you can open the disk and save your files. Also, you can recover the files 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-V2.0TL 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;

Safe recovery from disk images

This utility lets you save an entire copy of the disk to file and then work with this image instead of the actual disk. Such feature helps to protect data on the disk from:

  • Overwriting during the recovery process;
  • Loss resulting from bad sectors;
  • User mistakes.

To create an image, do the following:

  1. Make sure that you have enough free space to save the image. The image file size usually equals the disk size.

  2. Select the disk in the main window, and choose from the menu ToolsSave Disk. You can select multiple disks to be saved.

  3. When the image creation wizard starts, you can choose to save the entire disk or select only a part of it. Specify the parameters and click Next.

    Hetman Raid Recovery: Image Creation Wizard
  4. At this stage, you need to choose a directory where to save the image. Choose any disk connected to this PC, or save the image by FTP.

    Hetman Raid Recovery: hoose any disk connected to this PC, or save the image by FTP

Where are user’s files stored?

The Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL 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.

Comparison of software for RAID recovery

Product Operating system License type RAID controller support Supported file systems Virtual RAID controller support Data recovery from damaged RAID File preview
Hetman RAID Recovery Windows Paid Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
DiskInternals RAID Recovery Windows Paid Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
R-Studio Windows, Mac, Linux Paid Yes, over 200 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
UFS Explorer RAID Recovery Windows, Mac, Linux Paid Yes, over 1,000 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
EaseUS Data Recovery Windows Paid Yes, over 20 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
ReclaiMe Free RAID Recovery Windows Free 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-V2.0TL, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Kimble Belknap
    Kimble Belknap 30.08.2023 15:48 #
    Are there any specific techniques used in data recovery from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL devices with RAID configurations?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 30.08.2023 15:59 #

      Yes, there are specific techniques used in data recovery from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL devices with RAID configurations. Here are some common techniques:

      1. Rebuilding RAID Array: If one of the drives in the RAID array fails, it is often possible to replace the faulty drive and rebuild the array. This can be done through the device's web interface or management software.
      2. RAID Recovery Software: There are specialized software tools available that can help in recovering data from RAID arrays. These tools can analyze the drives and reconstruct the RAID configuration to retrieve the data.
      3. Professional Data Recovery Services: In cases where the RAID array is severely damaged or multiple drives have failed, it may be necessary to seek professional data recovery services. These experts have specialized hardware and software tools to recover data from complex RAID configurations.
      4. Clone the Drives: In some cases, it may be beneficial to clone the drives before attempting any recovery operations. This ensures that the original data is not modified or further damaged during the recovery process.

      It is important to note that data recovery from RAID configurations can be complex and should be performed carefully to avoid further data loss. It is recommended to consult with a professional data recovery service if you are not experienced in handling RAID recoveries.

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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 SSH and how does it relate to network security and remote access to devices?

    SSH, which stands for Secure Shell, is a cryptographic network protocol used for secure remote login and secure file transfer over an unsecured network. It provides a secure channel over an insecure network by encrypting the data during transmission and using authentication methods to ensure secure communication between two networked devices.

    SSH is primarily used for remote access to devices, allowing users to securely log in to a remote system and execute commands as if they were directly connected to it. It provides a secure alternative to protocols like Telnet, which transmit data in plain text, making it vulnerable to eavesdropping and unauthorized access.

    In terms of network security, SSH plays a crucial role in protecting sensitive data during transmission. By encrypting the communication between the client and server, it prevents unauthorized users from intercepting and deciphering the data packets. SSH also provides strong authentication mechanisms, such as public-key cryptography, which ensures that only authorized users can access the remote device.

    Furthermore, SSH is often used to create secure tunnels for other network services, such as Secure Copy (SCP) or Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP). These services use the SSH protocol to encrypt the data being transferred, ensuring confidentiality and integrity.

    Overall, SSH is an essential component of network security as it enables secure remote access to devices, protects sensitive data during transmission, and provides strong authentication mechanisms to ensure authorized access.

  • How does the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL utilize SSH protocol for secure remote management and file transfers?

    The NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL utilizes the SSH (Secure Shell) protocol for secure remote management and file transfers by implementing SSH server functionality.

    When enabled, the SSH server allows users to securely access the LinkStation's command-line interface remotely. This enables administrators to manage and configure the device without physically being present.

    Additionally, SSH provides secure file transfer capabilities through the SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) subsystem. Users can securely transfer files to and from the LinkStation using SFTP clients that support the SSH protocol.

    By utilizing SSH, the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL ensures that remote management and file transfers are encrypted and secure, protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access or interception.

  • Can you explain the specific features and benefits of SSH protocol in the context of NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL and its role in ensuring data privacy and protection?

    The SSH protocol, or Secure Shell protocol, is a cryptographic network protocol used for secure remote login and data communication. In the context of the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL, the SSH protocol provides several features and benefits to ensure data privacy and protection. Here are some specific aspects:

    1. Encrypted Communication: SSH uses strong encryption algorithms to secure the communication between the client (your device) and the NAS. This means that any data transferred over the network, including login credentials and file transfers, are encrypted and protected from unauthorized access.
    2. Secure Remote Access: With SSH, you can remotely access the NAS from anywhere over the internet, ensuring that your data remains private even when accessing it from outside your local network. This allows you to manage and access your files securely without the need for physical access to the NAS.
    3. Authentication and Access Control: SSH provides various authentication methods, such as password-based authentication or public key authentication, to verify the identity of the user accessing the NAS. This adds an extra layer of security by preventing unauthorized access to the system.
    4. Secure File Transfers: SSH supports secure file transfers using protocols like SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) or SCP (Secure Copy Protocol). These protocols ensure that files transferred between your device and the NAS are encrypted, protecting them from interception or tampering during transit.
    5. Secure Shell Environment: SSH provides a secure shell environment that allows you to execute commands on the NAS remotely. This can be useful for managing and configuring the NAS without physically connecting to it, reducing the risk of unauthorized physical access to the device.

    Overall, the SSH protocol plays a crucial role in ensuring data privacy and protection in the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-V2.0TL. It encrypts the communication, provides secure remote access, authenticates users, enables secure file transfers, and offers a secure shell environment for remote management. These features collectively enhance the security of your data and protect it from unauthorized access or interception.

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