Accessing RAID Disk Files When NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 Device Is Dead

Has your NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 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?

Accessing RAID Disk Files When NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 Device Is Dead

Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 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 TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

Accessing RAID Disk Files When NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 Device Is Dead

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.

How can regular performance monitoring and optimization help in preventing data loss on NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 devices?

Regular performance monitoring and optimization can help in preventing data loss on NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 devices in the following ways:

  1. Early detection of issues: Regular performance monitoring allows you to identify any potential issues or anomalies in the device's performance. This can include slow response times, high CPU or memory usage, or network connectivity problems. By detecting these issues early, you can take necessary actions to prevent data loss before it becomes a major problem.
  2. Proactive maintenance: Monitoring the performance of your NAS device can help you identify areas that require optimization or maintenance. This can include disk fragmentation, outdated firmware, or insufficient storage capacity. By addressing these issues proactively, you can ensure the smooth operation of your device and minimize the risk of data loss.
  3. Capacity planning: Regular monitoring of the NAS device's storage capacity can help you anticipate future storage needs. By tracking storage usage trends, you can identify when additional storage may be required and take appropriate actions, such as upgrading hard drives or expanding storage capacity. This can prevent situations where the device runs out of storage space, potentially leading to data loss.
  4. Backup and disaster recovery: Monitoring the performance of your NAS device can also help ensure the effectiveness of your backup and disaster recovery strategies. By regularly checking the status of backups, verifying data integrity, and testing the recovery process, you can ensure that your data is properly backed up and can be restored in the event of data loss.
  5. Security monitoring: Regular performance monitoring can also include monitoring for security-related events and anomalies. This can help detect any unauthorized access attempts, malware infections, or other security breaches that could potentially lead to data loss. By promptly addressing these security issues, you can prevent data loss and protect your valuable information.

Overall, regular performance monitoring and optimization of NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 devices can help identify and address potential issues before they result in data loss. It allows you to take proactive measures, maintain optimal performance, and ensure the safety and integrity of your data.

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

Although the NAS TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 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 TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6. 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

TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 has 6 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 0;
  • RAID 1;
  • RAID 5;
  • RAID 6;
  • 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 TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 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 TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Ashton Winder
    Ashton Winder 29.08.2023 16:46 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 device be done if the device is experiencing intermittent connectivity issues?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 29.08.2023 17:59 #

      Yes, data recovery from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 device can still be possible even if the device is experiencing intermittent connectivity issues. However, it might make the process more challenging and time-consuming.

      Here are a few steps you can take to recover data from a NAS device with intermittent connectivity issues:

      1. Troubleshoot the connectivity problem: Try to identify and fix the connectivity issues with the NAS device. Check network cables, router settings, and ensure that the NAS firmware is up to date. This might help stabilize the connection and make the data recovery process easier.
      2. Use specialized data recovery software: If the connectivity issues persist, you can try using specialized data recovery software that supports NAS devices. These tools can often recover data from corrupted or inaccessible NAS drives, even with intermittent connectivity. Some popular options include R-Studio, GetDataBack, and EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard.
      3. Connect the NAS drive directly to a computer: If the NAS device has multiple drive bays, you can remove the drives and connect them directly to a computer using a SATA to USB adapter or an external enclosure. This bypasses the network connectivity issues and allows you to access the drives directly for data recovery.
      4. Seek professional data recovery services: If the above methods fail or if you do not have the technical expertise, it is recommended to seek professional data recovery services. Data recovery experts have specialized equipment and knowledge to handle complex cases, including NAS devices with intermittent connectivity issues.

      Remember to always create backups of your important data to avoid data loss situations.

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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 TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6?

    The NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 offers the following file access levels:

    1. Read-Only: Users with this access level can only view and read files on the NAS. They cannot make any changes or modifications to the files.
    2. Read/Write: Users with this access level have full read and write permissions. They can view, modify, and delete files on the NAS.
    3. Read/Write/Delete: This access level includes all the permissions of Read/Write level, but also allows users to delete files from the NAS.
    4. Full Control: Users with full control access level have complete control over the files and folders on the NAS. They can view, modify, delete, and manage permissions for files and folders.
    5. No Access: This access level denies access to specific users or groups. Users with no access level cannot view or interact with the files on the NAS.

    These access levels can be assigned to individual users or groups, allowing for granular control over file permissions and security on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6.

  • How can the file access levels be customized or modified on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6?

    To customize or modify file access levels on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6, follow these steps:

    1. Access the TeraStation's web interface by entering its IP address in a web browser.
    2. Log in to the web interface using the administrator credentials.
    3. Once logged in, navigate to the "Shared Folders" section or "Access Restrictions" section. The exact location may vary depending on the firmware version.
    4. In the "Shared Folders" section, you can create new shared folders or modify existing ones. Select the folder you want to customize or modify the access levels for.
    5. Within the folder settings, you will find options to set access permissions for different user groups or individual users. You can specify whether users have read-only access or full read/write access to the folder.
    6. Additionally, you can set access restrictions based on IP addresses or time schedules. This allows you to control when and from which IP addresses the folder can be accessed.
    7. Save the changes to apply the customized access levels to the selected folder.
    8. Repeat the above steps for any other shared folders you want to customize or modify.

    Note: It is important to be cautious when modifying file access levels to ensure that only authorized users have appropriate access rights.

  • What are the security implications and considerations when configuring file access levels on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6?

    When configuring file access levels on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6, there are several security implications and considerations to keep in mind:

    1. User Access Control: It is important to properly configure user access control to ensure that only authorized individuals have access to specific files and directories. This helps prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.
    2. Strong Passwords: Ensure that users have strong passwords to protect against unauthorized access. Weak or easily guessable passwords can compromise the security of the NAS.
    3. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Implement RBAC to assign specific access privileges based on roles or job responsibilities. This helps ensure that users only have access to the files they need for their work, reducing the risk of accidental or intentional data breaches.
    4. Regular User Auditing: Enable user auditing to track and monitor user activities on the NAS. This can help identify any suspicious or unauthorized access attempts and provide an audit trail for forensic analysis if required.
    5. Encryption: Enable encryption for data stored on the NAS to protect against unauthorized access in case of physical theft or unauthorized access to the device.
    6. Firmware Updates: Regularly update the firmware of the NAS to ensure that any security vulnerabilities or bugs are patched. Outdated firmware can expose the device to potential security risks.
    7. Network Segmentation: Consider placing the NAS on a separate network segment or VLAN to isolate it from other devices and minimize the risk of unauthorized access from compromised systems.
    8. Backup and Disaster Recovery: Implement a robust backup and disaster recovery strategy to ensure that data stored on the NAS is protected against accidental deletion, hardware failure, or other unforeseen events.
    9. Physical Security: Ensure that the NAS device itself is physically secured in a locked room or cabinet to prevent unauthorized physical access.
    10. Regular Security Assessments: Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify any vulnerabilities or weaknesses in the NAS configuration and take appropriate measures to mitigate them.

    By considering these security implications and implementing appropriate configurations, the security of the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS-6VH12TL/R6 can be significantly enhanced.