How to recover data from Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 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-WS500GL/R1

Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 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-WS500GL/R1.

How to recover data from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1

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.

Are there any known compatibility issues or limitations when connecting NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 devices to specific switches or routers?

There are no specific known compatibility issues or limitations when connecting NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 devices to switches or routers. The device uses a standard Ethernet connection (10/100 Mbps), so it should be compatible with most switches and routers that support Ethernet connections. However, it is always recommended to check the specifications and compatibility of the specific switch or router you intend to use with the NAS device to ensure proper functionality.

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

Although NAS LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 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-WS500GL/R1. 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.

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How to recover data from a Buffalo

How to recover data from a Buffalo

LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 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-WS500GL/R1 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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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-WS500GL/R1, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Jackie Stookey
    Jackie Stookey 30.08.2023 07:54 #
    How does data recovery from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 differ from other storage devices?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 30.08.2023 07:59 #

      Data recovery from a NAS (Network Attached Storage) device like the Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 can differ from other storage devices in a few ways:

      1. RAID Configuration: NAS devices often use RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) configurations for data redundancy and performance. The Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1, for example, uses a RAID 1 configuration, which mirrors data across two drives. In case of a drive failure, data can be recovered from the remaining drive. Data recovery from a RAID configuration requires specialized knowledge and tools.
      2. Network Connectivity: NAS devices are connected to a network, allowing multiple users to access and store data. This network connectivity can complicate the data recovery process as it may require accessing the device remotely or through network protocols.
      3. Proprietary File Systems: NAS devices often use proprietary file systems, such as XFS or EXT3, which may not be natively supported by operating systems like Windows or macOS. This can make data recovery more challenging as specialized software or expertise may be required to access and recover the data.
      4. Embedded Operating Systems: NAS devices typically run on embedded operating systems like Linux. These operating systems may have specific file structures and configurations that differ from traditional desktop or server systems. Data recovery may involve accessing and understanding the underlying operating system to retrieve the data.
      5. Limited Physical Access: NAS devices are designed to be compact and often lack easy physical access to the internal drives. This can make it difficult to remove and connect the drives to a recovery system, requiring specialized tools or techniques to extract the data.

      Overall, data recovery from a NAS device like the Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 requires expertise in RAID configurations, network protocols, proprietary file systems, embedded operating systems, and limited physical access. It is recommended to consult professional data recovery services experienced in NAS recovery to ensure the best chances of successful data retrieval.

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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 recommended video streaming settings and formats for optimal performance on the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1?

    The Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 is a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device and does not have built-in video streaming capabilities. However, you can use the NAS to store and share video files that can be streamed to other devices on your network.

    To optimize video streaming performance on the NAS, you should consider the following settings and formats:

    1. Video Format: Use widely supported video formats like MP4, MKV, or AVI. These formats are compatible with most media players and streaming devices.
    2. Video Codec: H.264 or H.265 (HEVC) codecs are recommended for video compression. These codecs provide good video quality while keeping the file size manageable.
    3. Resolution: Choose an appropriate resolution based on your streaming devices' capabilities. For example, if you primarily stream to mobile devices or older TVs, a resolution of 720p (1280x720) may be sufficient. For modern smart TVs or streaming devices, 1080p (1920x1080) or even 4K (3840x2160) resolutions can be used.
    4. Bitrate: The bitrate determines the amount of data transferred per second during streaming. Higher bitrates result in better video quality but require faster network speeds. Aim for a balance between video quality and network capabilities. For example, a bitrate of 5-10 Mbps is suitable for 1080p streaming, while 20-30 Mbps may be required for 4K streaming.
    5. Network Connection: Ensure that your NAS and streaming devices are connected to a fast and stable network. Wired Ethernet connections are generally more reliable than Wi-Fi for streaming large video files.
    6. Transcoding: If your NAS supports video transcoding, enable it to convert video files into a compatible format on-the-fly. This can be beneficial if your streaming device does not support the original video format.
    7. File Organization: Organize your video files into separate folders for easy access and navigation. This can help improve the overall streaming experience, especially when dealing with a large number of video files.

    Remember to refer to the user manual or documentation provided by Buffalo for specific instructions on configuring and streaming videos from your particular LinkStation model.

  • How can I troubleshoot video streaming issues on my NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1?

    If you are experiencing video streaming issues on your Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 NAS, here are some troubleshooting steps you can follow:

    1. Check your network connection: Ensure that your NAS is connected to your network properly. Verify that the network cables are securely plugged in and that there are no connectivity issues.
    2. Update firmware: Make sure that your Buffalo LinkStation NAS is running the latest firmware version. Visit the Buffalo website and download the latest firmware for your specific model. Follow the instructions provided by Buffalo to update the firmware.
    3. Check NAS capacity and available space: Verify that your NAS has enough storage space available to stream videos. Insufficient storage space can cause streaming issues. Delete unnecessary files or consider upgrading your NAS storage capacity if needed.
    4. Check video file compatibility: Ensure that the video files you are trying to stream are compatible with your NAS. Check the supported file formats and codecs in the Buffalo LinkStation user manual. If the video files are not compatible, convert them to a supported format using appropriate software.
    5. Optimize network settings: Adjust the network settings on your NAS to optimize video streaming. In the NAS settings, check the network speed and adjust it according to your network capabilities. You can also try enabling jumbo frames if supported by your network infrastructure.
    6. Check bandwidth and network congestion: If you are streaming videos over the internet, check your bandwidth speed. Slow internet speeds can cause buffering and interruptions. Also, ensure that there are no other devices or applications consuming excessive bandwidth on your network, as this can lead to congestion and affect streaming performance.
    7. Restart your NAS: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary issues. Power off your NAS, wait for a few seconds, and then power it back on. This can help clear any temporary glitches or software conflicts.
    8. Test with a different media player: If you are using a specific media player to stream videos from your NAS, try using a different media player to see if the issue persists. Some media players may have compatibility issues or require specific configurations.
    9. Contact Buffalo support: If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it is recommended to contact Buffalo customer support for further assistance. They can provide specific troubleshooting steps or advise on any known issues with your NAS model.

    Remember to always backup your data before performing any firmware updates or making significant changes to your NAS settings.

  • Is there a maximum number of concurrent video streams that the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 can handle?

    The Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 is a network-attached storage (NAS) device that does not have built-in video streaming capabilities. It is primarily designed for file storage and sharing over a network.

    However, you can use third-party software or media server applications installed on the NAS to enable video streaming functionality. The number of concurrent video streams that the NAS can handle will depend on various factors such as the hardware specifications of the NAS, the specific media server software being used, and the network bandwidth available.

    To determine the maximum number of concurrent video streams that the Buffalo LinkStation LS-WS500GL/R1 can handle, you would need to check the specifications provided by Buffalo or consult their technical support team.

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