How to Recover Data from NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802: Thorough RAID Array Recovery Guide

Has your NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 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 TeraStation TS3420DN0802: Thorough RAID Array Recovery Guide
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Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 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 TS3420DN0802. 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 TeraStation TS3420DN0802: Thorough 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 preventive measures to minimize the risk of data loss on NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 devices?

Yes, there are several preventive measures you can take to minimize the risk of data loss on NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 devices. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Regular backups: Implement a regular backup strategy to ensure that your data is regularly backed up to an external storage device or cloud storage. This way, even if data loss occurs on the NAS device, you will have a recent backup to restore from.
  2. RAID configuration: Set up the TeraStation in a RAID configuration, such as RAID 1 or RAID 5, which provides redundancy and fault tolerance. This means that if one drive fails, your data will still be accessible from the remaining drives.
  3. UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): Connect your TeraStation to a UPS to protect it from sudden power outages or fluctuations. A UPS will provide backup power and protect your device from potential data corruption or loss caused by power issues.
  4. Firmware updates: Regularly check for and install firmware updates provided by Buffalo for your TeraStation. These updates often include bug fixes, security patches, and performance improvements that can help prevent data loss.
  5. Physical security: Keep your TeraStation in a secure location to prevent physical theft or tampering. Restrict access to authorized personnel only and consider using additional security measures like surveillance cameras or access control systems.
  6. Network security: Implement strong network security measures, including firewalls, secure passwords, and regular security audits. This will help protect your TeraStation from unauthorized access and potential data breaches.
  7. Regular maintenance: Perform regular maintenance tasks such as checking the health of hard drives, monitoring system logs for errors, and ensuring proper ventilation and cooling for the TeraStation. This will help identify and address any potential issues before they lead to data loss.

Remember that while these measures can significantly reduce the risk of data loss, they cannot guarantee complete protection. It's always a good practice to have multiple layers of backup and redundancy in place to ensure the safety of your data.

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

Although the NAS TeraStation TS3420DN0802 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 TS3420DN0802. 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 TS3420DN0802 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 TS3420DN0802 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 TS3420DN0802, feel free to leave a comment!
    Reply
  • Scott Halman
    Scott Halman 31.08.2023 15:42 #
    Are there any specific recovery methods for NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 devices with striped or mirrored data configurations?
    Reply
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 31.08.2023 16:00 #

      Yes, there are specific recovery methods for NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 devices with striped or mirrored data configurations. Here are some steps you can follow:

      1. Identify the issue: Determine whether the issue is related to hardware failure, software corruption, or other factors. This will help you choose the appropriate recovery method.
      2. Hardware failure: If the issue is due to hardware failure, such as a failed hard drive, you will need to replace the faulty drive with a new one. Follow the device's documentation or contact Buffalo support for detailed instructions on how to replace a drive in a striped or mirrored configuration.
      3. Software corruption: If the issue is related to software corruption, you can try the following recovery methods:

      a. Reboot the device: Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve software-related issues. Power off the device, wait for a few minutes, and then power it back on.

      b. Firmware update: Check if there are any firmware updates available for your TeraStation model. Updating the firmware can fix bugs and improve system stability.

      c. Factory reset: Performing a factory reset will restore the device to its default settings, but it will also erase all data on the TeraStation. Use this method only as a last resort and make sure to have a backup of your data before proceeding.

      Data recovery: If the striped or mirrored data on the TeraStation becomes inaccessible or corrupted, you may need to perform data recovery. In such cases, it is recommended to contact a professional data recovery service with experience in NAS devices. They can help you recover the data from the failed drives or assist in rebuilding the RAID array.

      Remember to always have a backup of your important data to avoid data loss in the event of hardware or software failures.

      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 advantages of using a NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 compared to regular external hard drives for data storage?

    There are several advantages of using a NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 compared to regular external hard drives for data storage:

    1. Centralized storage: A NAS (Network-Attached Storage) allows you to centralize your data storage, making it accessible to multiple devices on your network. This means you can easily share and access files from different computers, laptops, or mobile devices without the need to physically connect the hard drive to each device.
    2. Scalability: NAS devices like the Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 offer the ability to expand storage capacity by adding additional hard drives. This allows you to start with a smaller storage capacity and gradually increase it as your needs grow, without having to replace the entire device.
    3. Data protection: NAS devices often provide various data protection features like RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) configurations. RAID can offer redundancy and data mirroring, protecting your data against drive failures. In case one drive fails, your data remains accessible and can be recovered easily.
    4. Network sharing and collaboration: With a NAS, you can easily share files and folders with other users on your network. This enables seamless collaboration, allowing multiple users to work on the same files simultaneously, enhancing productivity and efficiency.
    5. Remote access: Many NAS devices, including the Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802, offer remote access capabilities. This means you can access your files and data stored on the NAS from anywhere using the internet. It provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to work or access your files even when you are away from your physical storage location.
    6. Automated backups: NAS devices often have built-in backup features that allow you to schedule automatic backups of your data. This ensures that your important files are regularly backed up, providing an extra layer of data protection.
    7. Enhanced data management: NAS devices typically come with advanced data management features like file organization, file versioning, and access control. These features help you efficiently manage and organize your data, ensuring easy retrieval and maintaining data integrity.

    Overall, using a NAS like the Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 offers a more robust and versatile storage solution compared to regular external hard drives. It provides centralized storage, scalability, data protection, network sharing, remote access, automated backups, and advanced data management features.

  • How does the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 provide enhanced data security and reliability compared to regular external hard drives?

    The NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 provides enhanced data security and reliability compared to regular external hard drives in several ways:

    1. RAID Configuration: The TeraStation TS3420DN0802 supports various RAID configurations, such as RAID 1 (mirroring) and RAID 5 (striping with distributed parity). These configurations ensure data redundancy and protection against drive failures. In case of a drive failure, the data remains accessible and can be reconstructed without any loss.
    2. Hot-Swappable Drives: The TeraStation TS3420DN0802 allows for hot-swappable drives, which means that failed drives can be replaced without powering down the system. This feature minimizes downtime and ensures continuous data availability.
    3. Multiple Drive Bays: The device comes with multiple drive bays, allowing for the installation of multiple hard drives. This enables users to create a storage pool or configure RAID setups for increased data security and performance.
    4. Network Attached Storage (NAS): Unlike regular external hard drives, the TeraStation TS3420DN0802 is a NAS device that connects to a network. This allows multiple users to access and share data simultaneously over the network. Additionally, NAS devices often have built-in security features such as user authentication, access controls, and data encryption, providing better data protection compared to standalone external hard drives.
    5. Backup and Synchronization: The TeraStation TS3420DN0802 offers built-in backup and synchronization features. It can automatically back up data from connected devices or synchronize data across multiple TeraStation devices. This ensures data redundancy and protects against accidental data loss.
    6. Scalability: NAS devices like the TeraStation TS3420DN0802 offer scalability options, allowing users to expand storage capacity as their needs grow. This flexibility ensures that data can be easily managed and stored without relying on multiple external hard drives.

    Overall, the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 provides enhanced data security and reliability through RAID configurations, hot-swappable drives, network connectivity, backup features, and scalability options. These features make it a more robust and dependable solution compared to regular external hard drives.

  • In what ways does the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 offer better accessibility, scalability, and ease of use compared to regular external hard drives?

    The NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 offers better accessibility, scalability, and ease of use compared to regular external hard drives in the following ways:

    1. Network Accessibility: The TeraStation is a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device, which means it connects directly to your network rather than being directly connected to a single computer. This allows multiple users to access the storage simultaneously from different devices, such as computers, smartphones, or tablets, over the local network or even remotely over the internet. Regular external hard drives typically require a physical connection to a single computer, limiting accessibility.
    2. Centralized Storage: The TeraStation provides centralized storage, allowing you to consolidate and organize your data in one place. This makes it easier to manage and access your files, as you don't have to remember which external hard drive a specific file is stored on. Regular external hard drives may require you to manually connect and disconnect different drives to access different sets of files.
    3. Scalability: The TeraStation offers scalability options, allowing you to expand the storage capacity as your needs grow. It typically supports multiple hard drives, and you can add more drives or upgrade existing ones to increase the total storage capacity. Regular external hard drives have a fixed storage capacity, and if you need more space, you would have to purchase additional drives.
    4. RAID Support: The TeraStation supports various RAID configurations, such as RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, or JBOD (Just a Bunch of Disks). RAID provides redundancy and data protection by distributing data across multiple drives. In case of a drive failure, your data remains accessible and can be recovered. Regular external hard drives do not offer RAID functionality, and a drive failure can result in data loss.
    5. User-Friendly Interface: The TeraStation comes with a user-friendly web-based interface that allows you to easily configure and manage the device. It provides features like user and group management, file sharing permissions, and remote access settings, all accessible through a simple graphical interface. Regular external hard drives typically rely on the operating system's file explorer, which may not offer as many management options or be as intuitive for non-technical users.
    6. Additional Features: The TeraStation often includes additional features, such as built-in backup options, integration with cloud storage services, and support for third-party applications. These features enhance the ease of use and provide additional functionality compared to regular external hard drives, which are typically limited to basic file storage and retrieval.

    Overall, the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420DN0802 offers better accessibility, scalability, and ease of use compared to regular external hard drives, making it a more versatile and efficient storage solution for both personal and business use.
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