How to recover data from Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/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-WX4.0TL/R1

Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/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-WX4.0TL/R1.

How to recover data from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/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.

Can the type of file system used on NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/R1 devices affect data loss risks?

Yes, the type of file system used on NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/R1 devices can affect data loss risks. Different file systems have different features and capabilities that can impact the reliability and recovery of data.

For example, the most commonly used file systems for NAS devices are NTFS (Windows), HFS+ (Mac), and ext4 (Linux). Each of these file systems has its own strengths and weaknesses.

NTFS is known for its robustness and reliability, with features like journaling that help prevent data corruption in case of power failures or system crashes. It also supports file and folder permissions, which can enhance data security. However, NTFS may have limited compatibility with non-Windows systems.

HFS+ is the default file system for Mac computers, offering features like journaling and support for file and folder permissions. It is designed to work seamlessly with Mac systems, but it may have limited compatibility with other operating systems.

ext4 is a popular file system for Linux-based NAS devices. It is known for its performance, scalability, and reliability. It supports journaling and has features like delayed allocation and extents, which can improve file system performance. However, ext4 may have limited compatibility with non-Linux systems.

The choice of file system can also affect data recovery options in case of data loss. Some file systems have built-in tools or utilities that can help recover lost or corrupted data more easily.

In summary, the type of file system used on NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/R1 devices can impact the risk of data loss, compatibility with different operating systems, and the availability of data recovery options. It is essential to choose a file system that suits your specific needs and requirements.

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

Although NAS LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/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-WX4.0TL/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.

Go to view
How to recover data from a Buffalo

How to recover data from a Buffalo

LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/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-WX4.0TL/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-WX4.0TL/R1, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Alison Barnardiston
    Alison Barnardiston 30.08.2023 18:45 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/R1 device be done remotely?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 30.08.2023 19:00 #

      No, data recovery from a NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/R1 device cannot be done remotely. Data recovery typically involves physical access to the storage device in order to perform the necessary procedures and recover the lost or corrupted data.

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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 file access levels available on the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/R1?

    The NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/R1 supports the following file access levels:

    1. Public Access: This level allows anyone on the network to access and modify files stored on the NAS without any authentication.
    2. User Access: Users can be created on the NAS and given specific access rights to folders and files. Each user has a username and password to authenticate and access their assigned files.
    3. Group Access: Users can be grouped together, and access rights can be assigned to the entire group. This simplifies the process of granting access to multiple users simultaneously.
    4. Guest Access: This level allows guests to access specific files or folders on the NAS without authentication. However, their access is limited, and they cannot modify or delete files.
    5. Administrator Access: The administrator has full control over the NAS and can create users, assign access rights, and configure various settings.

    These access levels provide flexibility and security for managing file access on the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/R1.

  • How can I configure file access levels on the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/R1?

    To configure file access levels on the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/R1, follow these steps:

    1. Open a web browser on a computer connected to the same network as the LinkStation.
    2. Enter the IP address of the LinkStation in the browser's address bar and press Enter. The default IP address is usually "192.168.1.1".
    3. Log in to the administration interface using your username and password. The default username is "admin" and the default password is "password".
    4. Once logged in, navigate to the "Shared Folders" or "Shared Folders/Shared Folders" section. The exact location may vary depending on the firmware version.
    5. Here, you will see a list of shared folders on the LinkStation. Click on the folder for which you want to configure access levels.
    6. In the folder settings, you will find options to set access levels for different users or groups. Typically, you can choose between "Read/Write", "Read Only", or "No Access" for each user or group.
    7. Select the desired access level for each user or group, and click "Apply" or "Save" to save the changes.

    Note: Make sure you have already created the users or groups with appropriate access rights before configuring the file access levels. You can create users and groups in the "Users" or "Users/Groups" section of the administration interface.

  • What are the security implications of different file access levels on the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/R1?

    The security implications of different file access levels on the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/R1 include:

    1. Administrator Access: This level provides full control and management privileges over the NAS device, including the ability to modify settings, create or delete users, and access all files and folders. It is crucial to secure administrator access by using strong passwords and limiting the number of individuals with this level of access.
    2. User Access: Users with this level of access can access their assigned folders and files, but they cannot modify system settings or access other users' data. It is important to assign appropriate user access rights to ensure data privacy and prevent unauthorized access.
    3. Group Access: Group access allows multiple users to be assigned the same access rights, simplifying the management of permissions. It is essential to properly configure group access to prevent unauthorized users from gaining access to sensitive data.
    4. Guest Access: Enabling guest access allows anonymous users to access specific files or folders without authentication. This can be convenient for sharing public data, but it also poses a security risk. It is recommended to disable guest access unless absolutely necessary, as it can potentially expose sensitive information to unauthorized users.
    5. Public vs. Private Shares: The NAS allows the creation of public and private shares. Public shares are accessible to all users, while private shares require specific user authentication. It is crucial to assign the appropriate access level (public or private) based on the sensitivity of the data being stored.
    6. Encryption: The NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-WX4.0TL/R1 supports data encryption, which adds an extra layer of security to the stored files. Enabling encryption ensures that even if the physical device is stolen or compromised, the data remains inaccessible without the encryption key.
    7. Firmware Updates: Regularly updating the NAS firmware is crucial to address any security vulnerabilities and ensure the device is protected against the latest threats. Keeping the firmware up to date helps maintain the overall security of the NAS.
    8. Network Security: The NAS should be connected to a secure network, preferably behind a firewall, and accessible only through secure protocols such as HTTPS or SSH. Additionally, implementing strong network security measures, such as using complex passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and restricting access to specific IP addresses, further enhances the overall security of the NAS.

    It is important to note that the specific security implications may vary depending on the configuration and usage of the NAS. It is recommended to consult the product documentation and follow best practices provided by the manufacturer to ensure optimal security.

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