How to recover data from Buffalo LinkStation LS-XL/E 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-XL/E

Buffalo LinkStation LS-XL/E 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-XL/E.

How to recover data from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-XL/E

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 can conducting regular backups on external storage devices mitigate data loss risks for NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-XL/E devices?

Conducting regular backups on external storage devices can mitigate data loss risks for NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-XL/E devices in the following ways:

  1. Redundancy: By regularly backing up your data on external storage devices, you create redundancy. In case of any data loss or failure in the NAS device, you can restore the data from the backups, ensuring minimal loss.
  2. Protection against hardware failures: NAS devices are prone to hardware failures like hard drive crashes or power surges. By backing up data on external storage devices, you protect your data from such failures. If the NAS device fails, you can simply connect the external storage device to another system and access your data.
  3. Protection against accidental deletion or corruption: Accidental deletion or corruption of data can occur due to human error or malware attacks. Regularly backing up your data on external storage devices ensures that you have a copy of your data that is not affected by such incidents. You can easily restore the data from the backups in case of accidental deletion or corruption.
  4. Disaster recovery: In case of a catastrophic event like fire, flood, or theft, having backups on external storage devices ensures that your data is safe and can be recovered. Storing the backups off-site or in a different location adds an extra layer of protection against such disasters.
  5. Easy migration or upgrade: When migrating to a new NAS device or upgrading your current one, having backups on external storage devices simplifies the process. You can easily transfer the data from the backups to the new device, ensuring a smooth transition without any data loss.

It is important to regularly schedule and automate backups to external storage devices to ensure that your data is consistently protected.

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

Although NAS LinkStation LS-XL/E 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-XL/E. 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-XL/E 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-XL/E 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-XL/E, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Cletus Arden
    Cletus Arden 30.08.2023 14:53 #
    Are there any specific troubleshooting methods for data recovery from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-XL/E devices with limited functionality?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 30.08.2023 14:59 #

      Yes, there are several troubleshooting methods you can try for data recovery from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-XL/E devices with limited functionality. Here are a few steps you can follow:

      1. Check the physical connections: Ensure that all cables are securely connected between the NAS device, router, and power source. Sometimes, loose connections can cause limited functionality.
      2. Restart the NAS device: Power off the LinkStation LS-XL/E, wait for a few seconds, and then power it back on. This simple step can resolve many software-related issues.
      3. Update firmware: Visit the Buffalo support website and check for any available firmware updates for your specific model. Updating the firmware can fix bugs and improve device performance.
      4. Reset the NAS device: If the limited functionality persists, you can try resetting the LinkStation LS-XL/E to its factory settings. This will erase all data and configurations, so make sure to back up your data before proceeding.
      5. Access the NAS device directly: If you are unable to access the NAS device through the network, try connecting it directly to a computer using an Ethernet cable. This will help determine if the issue lies with the network or the device itself.
      6. Use data recovery software: If the above methods fail and you need to recover data from the NAS device, you can try using data recovery software specifically designed for NAS devices. Some popular options include EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, Stellar Data Recovery, and Recuva.

      If these troubleshooting methods do not solve the issue or if the data recovery process becomes complex, it is recommended to seek professional data recovery services to ensure the best chance of recovering your valuable 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 is the estimated number of NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-XL/E users worldwide?

    It is difficult to provide an accurate estimate of the number of NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-XL/E users worldwide as the company does not publicly disclose such information. Additionally, user numbers can vary over time due to factors such as product popularity, availability, and market demand.

  • What factors contribute to the increasing or decreasing number of NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-XL/E users?

    There are several factors that can contribute to the increasing or decreasing number of NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS-XL/E users:

    1. Price: The price of the NAS device can greatly influence its popularity. A lower price can attract more users, while a higher price may limit the number of potential users.
    2. Features and functionality: The features and capabilities of the NAS device play a significant role in its adoption. Users are more likely to choose a device that offers a wide range of features such as storage capacity, data protection, remote access, and media streaming capabilities.
    3. Performance and reliability: The performance and reliability of the NAS device are crucial factors for users. If the device offers fast data transfer speeds, stable network connectivity, and reliable operation, it is more likely to attract and retain users.
    4. User experience and interface: The user experience and ease of use of the device's interface can impact its popularity. A user-friendly interface with intuitive navigation and setup processes can make the device more appealing to a wider range of users.
    5. Brand reputation and customer support: The reputation of the brand and the quality of customer support provided by the manufacturer can influence user adoption. Users are more likely to choose a NAS device from a well-established and trusted brand that offers good customer support.
    6. Market competition: The presence of competing products in the market can affect the number of users. If there are other NAS devices with similar or better features available at competitive prices, it may impact the adoption of the Buffalo LinkStation LS-XL/E.
    7. Technological advancements: Advancements in technology, such as the availability of higher-capacity hard drives or the introduction of new connectivity standards, can impact the number of users. Users may upgrade or switch to newer NAS devices that offer better performance or compatibility with the latest technologies.
    8. Marketing and promotion: Effective marketing and promotion efforts by the manufacturer can also contribute to the increasing or decreasing number of users. Awareness campaigns, positive reviews, and recommendations can help attract more users to the NAS device.

    It is important to note that these factors can vary in importance depending on individual user preferences and market dynamics.

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