Accessing RAID Disk Files When NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 Device Fails

Has your NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 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 TS3400D0404 Device Fails
Data Recovery Tool

Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 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 TS3400D0404. 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 TS3400D0404 Device Fails

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 data be recovered from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 device after a malfunction or data loss event?

If you are facing a data loss event or malfunction on a NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 device, there are several steps you can take to recover your data:

  1. Identify the cause of the malfunction: Determine the reason behind the data loss or device malfunction. It could be due to hardware failure, software corruption, accidental deletion, or other issues.
  2. Contact Buffalo support: Reach out to Buffalo's technical support for assistance. They may provide guidance specific to your device and situation.
  3. Power off the device: If the device is still functioning, it's important to power it off immediately to prevent further damage or overwriting of data.
  4. Seek professional data recovery services: If the data is critical and you are unable to recover it on your own, consider contacting a professional data recovery service. They have specialized tools and expertise to handle complex data recovery scenarios. Make sure to choose a reputable service provider.
  5. Attempt basic troubleshooting: If the device is not completely malfunctioning, you can try some basic troubleshooting steps. This may include checking cables, connections, and power supply, as well as resetting the device to factory settings. However, be cautious as these steps may potentially cause further data loss if not done correctly.
  6. Use data recovery software: If the device is accessible but the data is lost or deleted, you can try using data recovery software. Connect the NAS device to a computer and use a reliable data recovery tool specifically designed for NAS devices. Follow the software instructions to scan for and recover lost data.

Note: It's crucial to avoid any further write operations on the NAS device after data loss to prevent overwriting the lost data.

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

Although the NAS TeraStation TS3400D0404 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 TS3400D0404. 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 TS3400D0404 has 4 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 TS3400D0404 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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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 TS3400D0404, feel free to leave a comment!
    Reply
  • Gunnar Pertwee
    Gunnar Pertwee 30.08.2023 09:40 #
    How to eject hard drives from NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 and connect them to Windows?
    Reply
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 30.08.2023 11:00 #

      To eject hard drives from a Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 NAS and connect them to a Windows computer, follow these steps:

      1. Power off the Buffalo TeraStation NAS and disconnect it from the power source.
      2. Locate the hard drive bays on the NAS. The TS3400D0404 model has four drive bays.
      3. Open the front panel of the NAS by pressing the latch or using a screwdriver (if required).
      4. Identify the hard drive(s) you want to eject. Each drive bay should have a lever or latch that holds the hard drive in place.
      5. Gently push or release the lever/latch to unlock the hard drive.
      6. Carefully slide the hard drive out of the bay, ensuring you do not apply excessive force or damage any connectors.
      7. Repeat steps 4-6 for any additional hard drives you wish to remove.
      8. Close the front panel of the NAS.
      9. Power on your Windows computer.
      10. Connect the ejected hard drive(s) to your computer using a compatible connection method. Depending on the hard drive, you may need a USB adapter, SATA-to-USB cable, or an external hard drive enclosure.
      11. Once connected, Windows should automatically detect the hard drive(s) and assign them a drive letter.
      12. Open File Explorer (Windows Explorer) by pressing the Windows key + E.
      13. Navigate to "This PC" or "Computer" to view the connected hard drive(s).
      14. You can now access and use the hard drive(s) as you would with any other external storage device.

      Note: If the hard drives were previously used in a RAID configuration on the Buffalo TeraStation NAS, you may need to use specialized software or consult the Buffalo support documentation to retrieve the data correctly.

      Reply
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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 key features and capabilities of the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 that make it suitable for use in a surveillance system?

    The NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 has several key features and capabilities that make it suitable for use in a surveillance system:

    1. Storage Capacity: The TS3400D0404 comes with a storage capacity of 4TB, which allows for the storage of a large amount of surveillance footage.
    2. RAID Support: The NAS supports RAID levels 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, and JBOD, providing data redundancy and protection against drive failures. This ensures that surveillance footage is not lost in case of a drive failure.
    3. High-Speed Data Transfer: With its Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, the TS3400D0404 offers high-speed data transfer, allowing for quick and seamless access to surveillance footage.
    4. Surveillance-Optimized Firmware: The NAS comes with surveillance-optimized firmware that allows for easy integration with popular surveillance management software, making it compatible with various IP cameras and video management systems.
    5. Multiple Camera Support: The TS3400D0404 can support multiple IP cameras, making it suitable for small to medium-sized surveillance systems.
    6. Scheduled Backup: The NAS supports scheduled backup to external USB drives or other network-attached storage devices, ensuring that surveillance footage is regularly backed up for added security.
    7. Remote Access: The TS3400D0404 allows for remote access, enabling users to view surveillance footage from anywhere using a web browser or mobile app.
    8. Advanced Security Features: The NAS offers multiple security features, including AES 256-bit encryption, Active Directory integration, and user-level access control, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of surveillance footage.
    9. Easy Setup and Management: The NAS features a user-friendly interface and intuitive setup, making it easy to install and manage within a surveillance system.

    Overall, the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 provides ample storage capacity, robust data protection, compatibility with surveillance management software, and advanced security features, making it a suitable choice for use in a surveillance system.

  • How does the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 ensure data security and reliability for surveillance footage storage?

    The NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 ensures data security and reliability for surveillance footage storage through several features:

    1. RAID Technology: The TS3400D0404 supports RAID levels 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, and JBOD. RAID technology combines multiple hard drives into an array, providing redundancy and data protection. In case of a drive failure, the data is still accessible and can be rebuilt onto a new drive without any loss.
    2. Data Encryption: The TeraStation TS3400D0404 supports AES 256-bit encryption, which ensures that the data stored on the drives is encrypted and protected from unauthorized access. This adds an extra layer of security to prevent any potential data breaches.
    3. User and Group Management: The NAS provides robust user and group management features, allowing administrators to create individual user accounts with specific access rights and permissions. This ensures that only authorized personnel can access the surveillance footage and other stored data.
    4. Active Directory Integration: The TeraStation TS3400D0404 can integrate with an existing Active Directory (AD) infrastructure. This allows for centralized user authentication and access control, making it easier to manage user accounts and ensuring that only authorized users can access the surveillance footage.
    5. Scheduled Backup and Replication: The NAS supports scheduled backups and replication to external devices or remote TeraStations. This ensures that surveillance footage is regularly backed up and stored in a separate location, providing an additional layer of data protection and ensuring data reliability.
    6. Hot-Swappable Hard Drives: The TS3400D0404 features hot-swappable hard drives, allowing for easy replacement or expansion without powering down the system. This ensures minimal downtime and uninterrupted surveillance footage storage.
    7. Surveillance-specific features: The TeraStation TS3400D0404 is designed specifically for surveillance applications and supports various surveillance software and camera models. It offers features like camera licenses, video management software integration, and direct recording from IP cameras. These features enhance the compatibility, reliability, and security of the surveillance footage storage.

    Overall, the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 incorporates various security and reliability features to ensure the safe and uninterrupted storage of surveillance footage.

  • Can the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 be seamlessly integrated with existing surveillance cameras and software systems, and what are the steps involved in setting it up for use in a surveillance system?

    Yes, the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 can be seamlessly integrated with existing surveillance cameras and software systems. Here are the steps involved in setting it up for use in a surveillance system:

    1. Connect the TeraStation to your network: Plug in the TeraStation to a power source and connect it to your local network using an Ethernet cable.
    2. Access the TeraStation's web interface: Open a web browser on a computer connected to the same network and enter the TeraStation's IP address in the address bar. This will take you to the TeraStation's web interface.
    3. Configure the TeraStation: Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the TeraStation, including creating a username and password for administration access.
    4. Create shared folders: In the TeraStation's web interface, create shared folders where the surveillance footage will be stored. You can create separate folders for different cameras or organize them as per your preference.
    5. Install surveillance software: Install the surveillance software provided by your camera manufacturer or choose a third-party software compatible with the TeraStation. Follow the software's installation instructions.
    6. Configure the surveillance software: Once the software is installed, open it and configure it to connect to the TeraStation. This typically involves entering the TeraStation's IP address, username, password, and the shared folder location.
    7. Connect the cameras: Connect your surveillance cameras to the network. This may involve connecting them directly to the TeraStation or to a separate network switch.
    8. Configure the cameras: Access the cameras' settings using their respective software or web interfaces. Configure them to use the TeraStation as the storage location for recorded footage. This usually involves entering the TeraStation's IP address and the shared folder location.
    9. Test the setup: Verify that the cameras are recording and storing footage on the TeraStation. Monitor the system to ensure everything is functioning as expected.

    By following these steps, you can seamlessly integrate the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3400D0404 with your existing surveillance cameras and software systems.
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