How to Recover Data from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402: Ultimate RAID Array Recovery Guide

Has your NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402 suddenly lost its network drive and you’re unsure what to do next? Did the RAID array collapse, making your files inaccessible? Is the device throwing errors during startup? Perhaps you accidentally rebuilt the RAID array or several hard drives failed at the same time?

How to Recover Data from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402: Ultimate RAID Array Recovery Guide

Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402 NAS Data Recovery in 2025

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from an LinkStation LS220D0402. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

How to Recover Data from NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402: Ultimate RAID Array Recovery Guide

RAID Recovery™ 2.8
Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.
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Why Regular Data Recovery Tools Can’t Restore Files from RAID

Conventional hard drives store user data by writing it sequentially across the disk surface, which means an entire file is typically located on a single drive. In contrast, when data is written to a RAID array, each file is split into multiple fragments. These fragments are then distributed and written in sequence across all the drives in the array. Depending on the configuration, fragment sizes can range from 2 KB to 2 MB, so every file is physically stored across several disks at once.

This approach significantly increases read and write performance — after all, writing two halves of a 1 GB file to two drives simultaneously is much faster than writing the full 1 GB to a single disk. However, this same mechanism makes file recovery far more complex.

Different RAID levels use different methods to distribute and protect data. On top of that, manufacturers like Buffalo often add their own proprietary structures and variations. As a result, data can be written to disks in many different formats, and each requires a specific approach during recovery.

Are there any known issues with specific anti-virus software that can result in data loss on NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402 devices?

There are no specific known issues with anti-virus software that can result in data loss on NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402 devices. However, it is important to note that any anti-virus software, if not configured properly, can potentially interfere with the normal operation of a NAS device and cause data loss. It is always recommended to ensure that the anti-virus software is compatible with the NAS device and properly configured to avoid any potential conflicts. Additionally, regular backups of important data should be maintained to mitigate the risk of data loss.

How to Remove Hard Disks from Your NAS and Connect Them to a PC

Although the NAS LinkStation LS220D0402 can be accessed over the network, you still need to remove its hard disks and connect them directly to a Windows PC. Only then can the recovery software properly scan and analyze the drives. Follow these steps:

  1. Power off the NAS and disconnect it from the power source.

    WARNING! Before removing any drives, carefully read the device manual. Improper actions may damage both the NAS enclosure and the hard disks in the RAID array.

  2. Remove the hard disks one by one, gently sliding each drive out of its slot. Remember that hard disks are highly sensitive: any impact or drop can cause serious physical damage.

  3. Label each hard disk according to its position inside the NAS. The order of the drives is crucial for correct RAID reconstruction.

  4. Connect the drives to your computer. In this video, we explain which ports you can use to connect hard disks and what to do if your PC does not have enough free connectors.

    Go to view
    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

Step-by-Step Data Recovery with Hetman RAID Recovery

Hetman Raid Recovery

This program restores data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402. Each hard disk in the array contains technical metadata describing how files were written. When launched, Hetman RAID Recovery analyzes this metadata, automatically reconstructs the damaged array, and provides access to its contents. After that, you can browse the recovered disk and save your files. The program can also restore files that were accidentally deleted from the network drive.

Go to view
How to recover data from a Buffalo

How to recover data from a Buffalo

LinkStation LS220D0402 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;

How to Safely Recover Data from Disk Images

This utility allows you to create a complete copy of a disk and work with the disk image instead of the physical drive. This approach helps protect your data from:

  • Overwriting during the recovery process;
  • Additional data loss caused by bad sectors;
  • User errors.

To create a disk image, follow these steps:

  1. Ensure you have enough free space to store the image. Its size will typically match the size of the original disk.

  2. In the main window, select the target disk and choose Tools - Save Disk. You can also select multiple disks if needed.

  3. When the Image Creation Wizard opens, select whether you want to save the entire disk or only a specific region. Adjust the settings and click Next.

    Hetman RAID Recovery: Image Creation Wizard
  4. Choose the directory where the image will be saved. You may select any available disk connected to your PC or upload the image via FTP.

    Hetman RAID Recovery: Choose a disk or save the image via FTP

Where Are the User’s Files Actually Stored?

The Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402 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.

RAID Recovery Software: Detailed Comparison

Product Operating system RAID controller support Supported file systems Virtual RAID controller support Data recovery from damaged RAID File preview
Hetman RAID Recovery Windows, Linux, MacOS Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, exFAT, NTFS, ReFS, APFS, HFS+, Ext4, Ext3, Ext2, ReiserFS, Btrfs, VMFS, Hikvision, XFS, UFS, ZFS Yes Yes Yes
DiskInternals RAID Recovery Windows Yes, over 10 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
R-Studio Windows, Mac, Linux Yes, over 20 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
UFS Explorer RAID Recovery Windows, Mac, Linux Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
EaseUS Data Recovery Windows Yes, over 20 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
ReclaiMe Free RAID Recovery Windows 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 LS220D0402, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Jeremiah Colgate
    Jeremiah Colgate 31.08.2023 06:49 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402 device be done if the network interface is not functioning?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 31.08.2023 06:59 #

      Yes, data recovery from a NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402 device can still be possible even if the network interface is not functioning. The NAS device typically consists of one or more hard drives configured in a RAID array.

      If the network interface is not working, you may still be able to access the data by removing the hard drives from the NAS device and connecting them directly to a computer using a SATA-to-USB adapter or by installing them in a compatible computer. Once connected, you can use data recovery software to scan and recover the data from the drives.

      However, it's important to note that if the RAID array is configured in a specific way, such as RAID 0 or RAID 5, you may need to take additional steps or use specialized software to recover the data. It is recommended to consult with a professional data recovery service or seek assistance from Buffalo support for guidance specific to your situation.

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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

  • How does the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402 compare to other storage options for storing video game data in terms of speed and performance?

    The NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402 is a network-attached storage device designed for general-purpose file storage and sharing. When it comes to storing video game data, it is important to consider its speed and performance compared to other storage options.

    In terms of speed, the LinkStation LS220D0402 offers decent performance. It is equipped with a dual-core processor and supports RAID configurations, which can enhance data access speeds and provide some level of data redundancy. However, it is important to note that the actual speed will also depend on the network infrastructure and the capabilities of the devices accessing the data.

    Compared to other storage options, such as internal hard drives or solid-state drives (SSDs), the LinkStation LS220D0402 may not provide the same level of speed and performance. Internal drives are directly connected to the system, allowing for faster data transfer rates and lower latency. SSDs, in particular, offer significantly faster read and write speeds compared to traditional hard drives.

    However, the advantage of the LinkStation LS220D0402 lies in its network accessibility and storage capacity. It allows multiple devices to access and share data simultaneously, making it ideal for multiplayer gaming or storing game libraries accessible from different devices. Additionally, its large storage capacity (up to 4TB in this specific model) provides ample space for storing game installations, updates, and other related files.

    Ultimately, the choice between the LinkStation LS220D0402 and other storage options for video game data depends on your specific needs. If speed and performance are your primary concerns, internal drives or SSDs may be more suitable. However, if network accessibility, storage capacity, and multi-device sharing are important factors, the LinkStation LS220D0402 can be a convenient and reliable option.

  • What are the recommended configurations and settings for optimal performance when using the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402 as storage for video game data?

    To optimize performance when using the Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402 as storage for video game data, here are some recommended configurations and settings:

    1. RAID Configuration: Set up the LinkStation in RAID 0 mode to maximize performance. This combines both hard drives into a single volume, providing faster data transfer speeds.
    2. Network Connectivity: Connect the LinkStation directly to your gaming console or PC using an Ethernet cable, rather than relying on a wireless connection. This ensures a stable and faster network connection, reducing latency and improving performance.
    3. Enable Jumbo Frames: If your network infrastructure supports it, enable jumbo frames on the LinkStation. This increases the maximum transmission unit (MTU) size, allowing for larger data packets to be transferred at once, resulting in improved performance.
    4. Disable Energy-Saving Features: In the LinkStation settings, disable any energy-saving features that may cause the device to go into sleep mode or reduce performance. This ensures the NAS remains active and responsive at all times.
    5. Update Firmware: Regularly check for firmware updates for the LinkStation and apply them. Firmware updates often include performance improvements and bug fixes, which can enhance the overall performance of the device.
    6. Optimize Network Settings: Ensure that your network router or switch is properly configured to handle the maximum bandwidth required for gaming. Enable Quality of Service (QoS) settings if available, prioritizing gaming traffic over other network activities.
    7. Organize Game Data: Keep your game data organized on the LinkStation. Create separate folders for each game and avoid storing unnecessary files or applications on the NAS. This helps in quicker access and reduces clutter.
    8. Regular Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance tasks on the LinkStation, such as disk checks, defragmentation (if supported), and cleaning up unnecessary files. This helps to optimize performance and maintain the health of the drives.

    Remember that while these configurations and settings can enhance performance, the overall experience may still be influenced by other factors such as the gaming console or PC's hardware capabilities, the game's optimization, and the network infrastructure.

  • Are there any limitations or considerations to keep in mind when using the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402 as storage for video game data, such as file size restrictions or compatibility issues with certain gaming platforms or consoles?

    When using the NAS Buffalo LinkStation LS220D0402 as storage for video game data, there are a few limitations and considerations to keep in mind:

    1. File System Compatibility: The LinkStation LS220D0402 uses the NTFS file system by default. While this is compatible with most PC gaming platforms, some gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox may require the storage device to be formatted in FAT32 or exFAT. You might need to reformat the drive to a compatible file system if using it with consoles.
    2. Performance: The performance of the NAS may vary depending on the network connection and the speed of the drives installed. If you have a slower network connection or use slower hard drives, it may affect game load times and performance.
    3. File Size Limits: The NTFS file system supports large file sizes, so there shouldn't be any inherent limitations with the LinkStation LS220D0402. However, some gaming consoles or platforms may have their own file size limitations for game installations or downloads. Make sure to check the specific requirements of the gaming platform you are using.
    4. Network Speed: When accessing game data from the NAS over the network, the speed of your network connection can impact load times and performance. If you have a slow or unreliable network connection, it may affect the gaming experience.
    5. Compatibility with Cloud Saves: Some gaming platforms offer cloud save functionality, allowing you to store game progress online. NAS devices like the LinkStation LS220D0402 may not be directly compatible with cloud save features, and you may need to use additional software or services to sync your game saves with the cloud.

    It's always recommended to check the specific requirements and compatibility of your gaming platform or console with network storage before relying on a NAS device like the LinkStation LS220D0402 for game data storage.