How to Recover Data from NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402: Complete Step-by-Step RAID Array Recovery

Has your NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 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 TS3420RN0402: Complete Step-by-Step RAID Array Recovery

Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 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 TS3420RN0402. 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 TS3420RN0402: Complete Step-by-Step RAID Array Recovery

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 compatibility issues or limitations when connecting NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 devices to specific switches or routers?

There are no specific compatibility issues or limitations when connecting Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 NAS devices to switches or routers. These NAS devices are designed to work with standard Ethernet switches and routers that support TCP/IP networking protocols.

However, it is important to ensure that the switch or router you are using supports the required network speeds and protocols. The Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 NAS devices typically support Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps) connectivity, so you should use a switch or router that supports Gigabit Ethernet as well.

Additionally, it is recommended to check the network configuration settings on both the NAS device and the switch/router to ensure they are properly configured and compatible with each other. This includes checking the IP address settings, subnet masks, gateway settings, and any other relevant network settings.

Overall, as long as the switch or router supports Gigabit Ethernet and the network configuration is properly set up, there should not be any compatibility issues or limitations when connecting Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 NAS devices to switches or routers.

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

Although the NAS TeraStation TS3420RN0402 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 TS3420RN0402. 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 TS3420RN0402 has 2 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 TeraStation TS3420RN0402 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 TS3420RN0402, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Linus Tinworth
    Linus Tinworth 1.09.2023 18:42 #
    Is it possible to recover data from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 device if the device is experiencing frequent disconnections or network errors?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 1.09.2023 20:00 #

      It is possible to recover data from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 device even if the device is experiencing frequent disconnections or network errors. However, the process may be more complicated and require additional steps compared to a device that is functioning properly.

      Here are a few steps you can try to recover data from a problematic NAS device:

      1. Check the network connections: Ensure that all network cables and connections are secure and functioning properly. Try connecting the NAS device directly to a computer to eliminate any potential network issues.
      2. Restart the NAS device: Power off the NAS device, wait for a few minutes, and then power it back on. This can sometimes resolve temporary network errors.
      3. Update firmware: Check if there are any firmware updates available for your NAS device. Updating the firmware can often fix compatibility issues and improve overall performance.
      4. Use data recovery software: If the NAS device is still experiencing issues, you can try using data recovery software specifically designed for NAS devices. These tools can help recover data from a malfunctioning NAS device by accessing the hard drives directly.
      5. Seek professional assistance: If you are unable to recover the data on your own, it may be worth consulting a professional data recovery service. They have specialized tools and expertise to recover data from faulty NAS devices.

      Remember to always create regular backups of your important data to avoid data loss in case of device failure or other issues.

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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 TS3420RN0402 in terms of file access security?

    The NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 offers several key features and capabilities in terms of file access security:

    1. Active Directory Integration: The TeraStation supports integration with an Active Directory (AD) domain, allowing for centralized user and group management. This ensures that file access permissions can be easily managed and enforced based on AD user and group memberships.
    2. Access Control Lists (ACLs): The NAS supports ACLs, which enable granular control over file and folder permissions. With ACLs, administrators can define specific access rights for individual users or groups, such as read-only, read-write, or no access.
    3. Group and User Management: The TeraStation allows administrators to create and manage user accounts and groups directly on the device. This provides flexibility in granting access to specific files and folders based on user roles or project requirements.
    4. Shared Folder Permissions: Administrators can set permissions at the shared folder level, controlling access for multiple users or groups. This allows for easy management of file access security across different departments or teams.
    5. Secure Remote Access: The NAS supports secure remote access protocols such as SSL/TLS and VPN, ensuring that data transmitted between remote users and the TeraStation is encrypted and protected from unauthorized access.
    6. Data Encryption: The TeraStation offers hardware-based AES-256 encryption, which encrypts data stored on the device. This ensures that even if the physical device is stolen or accessed without authorization, the data remains secure.
    7. Antivirus Integration: The NAS supports integration with third-party antivirus software, allowing for real-time scanning and protection against malware and viruses. This helps to prevent the spread of infected files and ensures the integrity of stored data.
    8. Audit Logging: The TeraStation logs user activities, providing administrators with a detailed audit trail of file access and modifications. This helps in identifying any unauthorized access attempts or suspicious activities.

    Overall, the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 provides robust file access security features and capabilities, allowing for secure and controlled access to stored data.

  • How does the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 ensure secure file access for users and administrators?

    The NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 ensures secure file access for users and administrators through various security features and protocols. Some of the key aspects include:

    1. User Authentication: The TeraStation supports multiple user accounts with individual usernames and passwords. It uses various authentication protocols like Active Directory (AD), LDAP, or local authentication to verify user identities before granting access to files.
    2. Access Control: The device provides granular access control mechanisms, allowing administrators to assign specific permissions to users or user groups. This ensures that only authorized individuals can access certain files or folders.
    3. Secure File Transfer: The TeraStation supports secure file transfer protocols like FTPS (FTP over SSL/TLS) and SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol), which encrypt the data during transit, preventing unauthorized interception or tampering.
    4. Data Encryption: The NAS offers built-in encryption options, such as AES-256, to encrypt data stored on the device. This ensures that even if the physical device is compromised, the data remains inaccessible without the encryption key.
    5. Secure Remote Access: The TeraStation supports secure remote access methods like Virtual Private Network (VPN) connectivity, enabling users and administrators to securely access files and manage the device remotely over the internet. VPN ensures encrypted communication and protects against unauthorized access.
    6. Firewall and IP Filtering: The device includes firewall capabilities that can be configured to restrict access to specific IP addresses or ranges. This helps prevent unauthorized access attempts from external sources.
    7. Auditing and Logging: The TeraStation maintains detailed logs of user activities, including file access, modifications, and administrative actions. These logs can be reviewed to monitor and investigate any suspicious or unauthorized activities.
    8. Firmware Updates: Buffalo regularly releases firmware updates for their devices, including the TeraStation series, to address any security vulnerabilities or weaknesses. Keeping the device up to date with the latest firmware ensures that known security issues are patched.

    By implementing these security measures, the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 ensures that user and administrator file access is protected and secure.

  • Can you explain the different levels of file access security settings and permissions available on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402?

    The Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 NAS device offers various levels of file access security settings and permissions to ensure data protection and control. Here are the different levels of access security settings and permissions available on this device:

    1. User-Level Security: The NAS allows you to create individual user accounts with unique usernames and passwords. Each user can be assigned specific access rights and permissions to files and folders.
    2. Group-Level Security: Users can be organized into groups, and permissions can be assigned at the group level. This simplifies the process of granting similar access rights to multiple users at once.
    3. Shared Folder Permissions: The NAS enables you to create shared folders and set permissions for each folder. You can define whether users or groups have read-only access, read/write access, or no access to specific folders.
    4. Access Control Lists (ACLs): ACLs provide more granular control over file and folder permissions. You can define access rights for individual users or groups, specifying permissions such as read, write, execute, delete, and more.
    5. Active Directory Integration: The TeraStation TS3420RN0402 can be integrated with an existing Active Directory (AD) infrastructure. This allows you to leverage AD user accounts and groups for access control, making it easier to manage permissions across multiple devices.
    6. HTTPS/SSL Encryption: The NAS supports secure communication using HTTPS/SSL encryption protocols. This ensures that data transmitted between the NAS and connected devices is encrypted, providing an additional layer of security.
    7. IP Address Filtering: You can restrict access to the NAS based on IP addresses. By specifying allowed or denied IP ranges, you can control which devices or networks can connect to the NAS.
    8. Event Logs and Notifications: The NAS keeps logs of user activities, file/folder access, and system events. You can review these logs to monitor any unauthorized access attempts or unusual activities. Additionally, you can configure email notifications to alert you about specific events.

    By utilizing these different levels of file access security settings and permissions, the Buffalo TeraStation TS3420RN0402 NAS allows you to control and protect your data, ensuring that only authorized users have appropriate access to files and folders.