How to recover data from Buffalo LinkStation LS-X2.0TL 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-X2.0TL

Buffalo LinkStation LS-X2.0TL 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-X2.0TL.

How to recover data from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-X2.0TL

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.

Can data be lost during the process of upgrading or updating the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-X2.0TL device's firmware?

Yes, there is a possibility of data loss during the process of upgrading or updating the firmware of a NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-X2.0TL device. While firmware updates are designed to improve the device's functionality and security, there is always a risk involved when modifying the system's software.

During a firmware update, the device may encounter errors or glitches that could potentially lead to data corruption or loss. It is crucial to ensure that you have a backup of all important data before proceeding with any firmware update.

To minimize the risk of data loss, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and ensure a stable power source during the update process. It is also advisable to have a backup power supply or a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) in case of power outages.

In addition, it is essential to download the firmware update from the official Buffalo website or authorized sources to avoid using incompatible or corrupted firmware files.

If data loss occurs during the firmware update, it may be challenging to recover the lost data. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly back up your important files to an external storage device or cloud storage to safeguard against any potential data loss.

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

Although NAS LinkStation LS-X2.0TL 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-X2.0TL. 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.

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How to recover data from a Buffalo

How to recover data from a Buffalo

LinkStation LS-X2.0TL 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-X2.0TL 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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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-X2.0TL, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Bud Lillycrop
    Bud Lillycrop 30.08.2023 13:56 #
    Is the order of disks in a NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-X2.0TL important for a RAID array?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 30.08.2023 13:59 #

      Yes, the order of disks in a NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-X2.0TL is important for a RAID array. The RAID configuration relies on the specific order of the disks to function properly. If the disks are not placed in the correct order, the RAID array may not be able to rebuild or function as intended. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions or documentation to ensure the correct disk order for setting up or replacing drives in a RAID configuration.

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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 iSCSI and how does it work?

    iSCSI (Internet Small Computer System Interface) is a protocol that allows the transmission of SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) commands over an IP network, typically Ethernet. It enables the connection of storage devices, such as hard drives or storage arrays, to a computer or server over a network.

    iSCSI works by encapsulating SCSI commands within IP packets, allowing these commands to be sent over an IP network. It uses TCP/IP as the transport protocol, providing reliable and ordered delivery of data. The iSCSI initiator, which is usually a server or computer, sends SCSI commands to the iSCSI target, which is the storage device.

    The iSCSI initiator initiates a session with the iSCSI target, establishing a connection between the two. This session is typically authenticated and secured using various security mechanisms. Once the session is established, the initiator can send SCSI commands to the target, such as read or write requests, just like it would with a directly attached storage device.

    The iSCSI target receives the SCSI commands, processes them, and performs the requested storage operations. It then sends the data back to the initiator over the network. The initiator treats the iSCSI target as if it were a local storage device, allowing applications and operating systems to access the storage resources over the network.

    Overall, iSCSI provides a cost-effective and flexible way to connect storage devices to servers or computers over a network, enabling centralized storage management and shared access to storage resources.

  • What are the advantages of using iSCSI for network storage?

    There are several advantages of using iSCSI for network storage:

    1. Cost-effective: iSCSI is a cost-effective solution compared to Fibre Channel (FC) because it uses existing Ethernet infrastructure, eliminating the need for expensive FC switches and adapters.
    2. Flexibility: iSCSI can run over existing IP networks, allowing for flexible storage deployment and scalability. It can be easily integrated into the existing network infrastructure without requiring dedicated storage networks.
    3. Performance: iSCSI offers high-performance storage connectivity by leveraging the speed and reliability of Ethernet networks. With the advancements in Ethernet technology, iSCSI can provide comparable performance to FC.
    4. Ease of management: iSCSI simplifies storage management through its compatibility with existing IP-based management tools. It allows for centralized management and control of storage resources, making it easier to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot.
    5. Compatibility: iSCSI is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, storage devices, and networking equipment. It provides interoperability between different vendors' products, ensuring flexibility and choice for storage solutions.
    6. Data protection: iSCSI supports advanced features such as encryption and authentication, ensuring data security during transmission. It also supports snapshot and replication technologies, enabling efficient data backup and disaster recovery.
    7. Virtualization support: iSCSI is widely used in virtualized environments as it allows for the consolidation of storage resources and provides efficient storage provisioning for virtual machines.
    8. Scalability: iSCSI supports the use of multiple initiators (servers) connecting to multiple targets (storage devices), allowing for easy scalability and expansion of storage capacity as needed.

    Overall, iSCSI provides a cost-effective, flexible, and high-performance solution for network storage, making it a popular choice for organizations of all sizes.

  • Does the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-X2.0TL support iSCSI protocol for network storage?

    No, the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-X2.0TL does not support iSCSI protocol for network storage.

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