Recovering RAID Disk Data Without NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204 Power On

Has your NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204 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?

Recovering RAID Disk Data Without NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204 Power On

Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204 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 TS5400D1204. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

Recovering RAID Disk Data Without NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204 Power On

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.

Can improper configuration of network settings or IP addresses result in data loss on NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204 devices?

Yes, improper configuration of network settings or IP addresses can potentially result in data loss on NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204 devices. If the network settings or IP addresses are not configured correctly, it can lead to connectivity issues, loss of access to the NAS device, or even accidental deletion or corruption of data. It is important to ensure that network settings and IP addresses are properly configured and maintained to avoid any potential data loss incidents.

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

Although the NAS TeraStation TS5400D1204 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 TS5400D1204. 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 TS5400D1204 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 TS5400D1204 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 TS5400D1204, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Eric Simpson
    Eric Simpson 29.08.2023 20:56 #
    Is it possible to recover data from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204 device that has been affected by a hardware RAID controller failure?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 29.08.2023 22:00 #

      Yes, it is possible to recover data from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204 device that has been affected by a hardware RAID controller failure. However, the process can be complex and requires specialized knowledge and tools.

      In such cases, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional data recovery service that specializes in RAID recovery. These experts have the necessary expertise and equipment to recover data from failed RAID systems.

      It is important to note that attempting to recover data on your own or using inexperienced recovery methods can further damage the data and reduce the chances of successful recovery.

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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 network protocols are supported by the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204?

    The NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204 supports the following network protocols:

    1. TCP/IP: This is the most common network protocol used for communication over the internet and local networks.
    2. SMB/CIFS: Server Message Block/Common Internet File System is a network file sharing protocol used by Windows operating systems.
    3. AFP: Apple Filing Protocol is a network protocol used by Apple devices for file sharing and network communication.
    4. FTP: File Transfer Protocol is a standard network protocol used for transferring files between a client and a server on a computer network.
    5. NFS: Network File System is a distributed file system protocol used by Unix-like operating systems for sharing files and directories over a network.
    6. HTTP: Hypertext Transfer Protocol is the protocol used for transmitting hypertext over the internet. It is primarily used for web browsing.
    7. HTTPS: Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure is the secure version of HTTP that uses encryption to ensure secure communication over the internet.
    8. SNMP: Simple Network Management Protocol is an internet standard protocol used for managing and monitoring network devices.
    9. NTP: Network Time Protocol is a protocol used to synchronize the clocks of computers over a network.
    10. iSCSI: Internet Small Computer System Interface is a protocol used for connecting storage devices over a network, allowing them to appear as locally attached storage to a computer.

    Please note that this list may not be exhaustive, and it is always recommended to refer to the product documentation or manufacturer's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

  • How do the network protocols on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204 enhance data transfer and access capabilities?

    The network protocols on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204 enhance data transfer and access capabilities in several ways:

    1. Gigabit Ethernet: The NAS is equipped with Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing for high-speed data transfer over the network. This enables faster access to files and improves overall performance.
    2. Multiple Network Protocols: The TeraStation supports various network protocols such as TCP/IP, SMB/CIFS, AFP, FTP, and NFS. These protocols provide compatibility with different operating systems and devices, ensuring seamless data transfer and access across a wide range of platforms.
    3. Jumbo Frame Support: Jumbo frames allow for larger data packets to be transmitted, reducing the overhead associated with smaller packets. This results in improved data transfer speeds and reduced latency.
    4. Link Aggregation: The TeraStation supports link aggregation, which allows multiple network interfaces to be combined for increased bandwidth and fault tolerance. By aggregating the network links, data transfer speeds can be significantly enhanced, especially in environments with high network traffic.
    5. Active Directory Integration: The NAS can integrate with Active Directory, enabling centralized user and group management. This integration simplifies access control and authentication processes, enhancing security and making it easier to manage user permissions and access rights.
    6. WebAccess and Mobile Apps: The TeraStation offers WebAccess and mobile apps that allow remote access to files and data from anywhere with an internet connection. These apps provide a user-friendly interface and secure access to data, enhancing flexibility and productivity.

    Overall, the network protocols on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204 provide faster data transfer speeds, improved compatibility, enhanced security, and remote access capabilities, making it a versatile and efficient storage solution.

  • Are there any specific network protocol configurations or settings that need to be considered for optimal performance on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204?

    There are several network protocol configurations and settings that can be considered for optimal performance on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5400D1204. Here are a few important ones:

    1. Jumbo Frames: Enabling jumbo frames can improve network performance by allowing larger data packets to be transferred in a single transmission. However, it requires support from both the NAS and the connected devices.
    2. Link Aggregation: If your network infrastructure supports link aggregation (also known as port trunking or bonding), you can combine multiple network interfaces on the NAS for increased bandwidth and fault tolerance.
    3. Quality of Service (QoS): Configuring QoS settings on the NAS can prioritize certain types of network traffic, ensuring that critical applications or services receive sufficient bandwidth and reducing the impact of other non-essential traffic.
    4. Network Speed and Duplex Settings: Ensure that the network speed and duplex settings on both the NAS and the connected devices are properly configured to match the capabilities of the network infrastructure. Mismatched settings can lead to performance issues.
    5. Network Switch Configuration: If you are using a network switch, make sure it is properly configured for optimal performance. This may include enabling flow control, adjusting buffer sizes, or configuring port settings.
    6. IP Addressing: Using a static IP address for the NAS can help avoid potential IP conflicts and ensure consistent network connectivity.
    7. Firmware Updates: Regularly updating the firmware of the NAS can provide bug fixes, performance improvements, and additional features that can enhance network performance.

    It is important to consult the user manual or contact Buffalo support for specific guidance on optimizing network performance for the TeraStation TS5400D1204, as settings and configurations may vary depending on the specific model and firmware version.