RAID Array Recovery Guide for NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9: Comprehensive Recovery Steps

Has your NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 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?

RAID Array Recovery Guide for NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9: Comprehensive Recovery Steps

Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 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 WS5220DN08S9. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

RAID Array Recovery Guide for NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9: Comprehensive Recovery Steps

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 file system corruption impact data integrity on NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 devices?

File system corruption can have a significant impact on data integrity on NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 devices. Here are a few ways it can affect data integrity:

  1. Data Loss: File system corruption can lead to the loss of data stored on the NAS device. This can occur if the corruption affects critical system files or the metadata that keeps track of file locations and attributes. In some cases, the corrupted files may become inaccessible or completely lost.
  2. Data Inconsistency: Corruption in the file system can result in data inconsistencies, where the stored data does not match the expected values or is in an inconsistent state. This can lead to data errors and inaccuracies, making it challenging to rely on the integrity of the information stored on the NAS device.
  3. Data Access Issues: File system corruption can cause difficulties in accessing or retrieving data from the NAS device. It may result in slow read or write speeds, frequent errors, or even system crashes. These issues can disrupt normal operations and make it challenging to retrieve or modify data reliably.
  4. Data Integrity Verification: File system corruption can also impact the ability to verify data integrity using built-in mechanisms such as checksums or data redundancy techniques. If the corruption affects the integrity checks themselves, it can lead to false positives or negatives, making it difficult to identify and rectify data corruption.
  5. Data Recovery Challenges: In cases of severe file system corruption, data recovery can become a complex and time-consuming process. Depending on the extent of the corruption, specialized tools and techniques may be required to recover the data, and there is no guarantee of complete success.

To mitigate the impact of file system corruption on data integrity, it is essential to regularly back up data stored on the NAS device, implement proper data redundancy mechanisms, and regularly monitor the health of the file system. Additionally, promptly addressing any signs of file system corruption, such as unusual errors or slow performance, can help minimize the potential impact on data integrity.

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

Although the NAS TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 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 WS5220DN08S9. 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 WS5220DN08S9 has 1 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 WS5220DN08S9 network-attached storage keeps Windows Storage Server 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 WS5220DN08S9, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Wilf Burch
    Wilf Burch 1.09.2023 00:48 #
    Is it possible to recover data from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 device that has been affected by a controller failure or disk array problem?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 1.09.2023 01:59 #

      Yes, it is possible to recover data from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 device that has been affected by a controller failure or disk array problem. However, data recovery from a failed NAS device can be complex and challenging, and it is recommended to seek professional data recovery services for the best chance of success.

      Data recovery specialists have the expertise and specialized tools to diagnose and repair controller failures or disk array problems in NAS devices. They can also perform logical or physical data recovery techniques to retrieve data from the affected device.

      It is important to note that attempting DIY data recovery methods without proper knowledge or experience may further damage the device or result in permanent data loss. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a professional data recovery service for the best possible outcome.

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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 steps to remotely access files on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 from a different location?

    To remotely access files on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 from a different location, you can follow these steps:

    1. Ensure that your NAS is connected to the internet and has a public IP address or is accessible through a dynamic DNS service.
    2. Configure port forwarding on your router to forward the necessary ports (typically port 80 for HTTP or port 443 for HTTPS) to the internal IP address of the NAS.
    3. Enable remote access on the NAS by accessing its administration interface. This can usually be done by typing the NAS's IP address in a web browser.
    4. Set up a secure connection by enabling SSL/TLS encryption on the NAS if it is not already enabled. This will help protect your data during remote access.
    5. Create user accounts on the NAS and assign appropriate access permissions to each user. This will control who can access the files remotely and what level of access they have.
    6. Set up remote access on your computer or mobile device. This can be done by installing the NAS's remote access software or app, which is usually provided by the manufacturer. Alternatively, you can use FTP, SFTP, or WebDAV clients to access the files remotely.
    7. Open the remote access software or app and enter the necessary credentials (such as the NAS's IP address or domain name, username, and password) to establish a connection.
    8. Once connected, you should be able to browse and access the files on your NAS from a different location. You can upload, download, or modify files as needed.

    Note: The exact steps may vary slightly depending on the specific model and firmware version of your NAS. It is recommended to consult the user manual or documentation provided by Buffalo for detailed instructions tailored to your device.

  • What are the security measures in place to protect the files and data while accessing the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 remotely?

    The Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 NAS (Network Attached Storage) device offers several security measures to protect files and data while accessing it remotely. Some of these measures include:

    1. Encryption: The NAS supports AES 256-bit encryption, which ensures that data stored on the device is securely encrypted and protected from unauthorized access.
    2. VPN Support: The TeraStation supports Virtual Private Network (VPN) connections, allowing users to establish secure and encrypted connections to the NAS remotely. VPNs provide an additional layer of security by encrypting the data transmitted between the remote device and the NAS.
    3. SSL/TLS Certificates: The TeraStation supports SSL/TLS certificates for secure communication between the NAS and remote devices. This ensures that the data transmitted over the network is encrypted and protected from interception.
    4. User Authentication: The NAS supports various user authentication methods, such as local user accounts, Active Directory integration, and LDAP authentication. These authentication mechanisms ensure that only authorized users can access the NAS remotely.
    5. Access Control: The TeraStation allows administrators to set access control rules and permissions for different users or groups. This ensures that only authorized users have access to specific files and folders on the NAS, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
    6. Firewall and Intrusion Detection/Prevention: The NAS has built-in firewall capabilities to protect against unauthorized access attempts. It also supports intrusion detection and prevention mechanisms to detect and block any suspicious activities or attacks.
    7. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Some NAS models, including certain TeraStation models, support two-factor authentication. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide a second form of authentication, such as a unique code generated by a mobile app, in addition to their password.
    8. Regular Firmware Updates: Buffalo periodically releases firmware updates for their NAS devices, which often include security patches and enhancements. Keeping the firmware up to date ensures that any known security vulnerabilities are addressed.

    It is important to note that while these security measures help protect the data and files on the NAS, it is also crucial to follow best practices such as using strong passwords, regularly backing up data, and implementing additional security measures on the network where the NAS is connected.

  • Are there any limitations or restrictions when accessing files on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 from a remote location, such as file size or transfer speeds?

    When accessing files on the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 from a remote location, there may be certain limitations or restrictions that can affect file size and transfer speeds. Some of these limitations include:

    1. Internet Connection Speed: The speed of your internet connection at both the remote location and the NAS device's location can impact file transfer speeds. If either connection has limited bandwidth, it may affect the speed at which files can be accessed or transferred.
    2. Network Latency: When accessing files remotely, network latency can cause delays in data transmission. This delay can impact the overall transfer speed, especially for larger files.
    3. NAS Configuration: The TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 may have specific settings or configurations that limit file sizes or transfer speeds. For example, there may be a maximum file size allowed by the NAS device or a limit on the number of concurrent connections.
    4. VPN or Firewall Restrictions: If you are accessing the NAS device from a remote location through a Virtual Private Network (VPN) or a firewall, there may be additional limitations imposed by these security measures. They could restrict file sizes or limit transfer speeds to ensure network security.
    5. NAS Hardware Limitations: The NAS device itself may have hardware limitations that impact file transfer speeds or file size handling. It is advisable to check the specifications of the TeraStation WS5220DN08S9 to understand any limitations imposed by the hardware.

    To get accurate information about specific limitations or restrictions, it is recommended to refer to the user manual or documentation provided by Buffalo for the TeraStation WS5220DN08S9.