How to recover data from Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 NAS

Is your network drive gone, and you are wondering what to do? Has a RAID system crashed, and your files are no longer accessible? Does your device display an error while booting? Have you accidentally rebuilt your RAID system? Are several hard disks out of order?

How to recover data from NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6

Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from TeraStation WS5420DN16W6.

How to recover data from NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6

Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.

Why can’t ordinary software tools restore files from RAID?

Conventional hard disks keep user’s data by writing it to their surface in a consecutive way, and this is how an entire file is stored on a single hard disk. However, when data is written to a RAID system, a file is divided into several parts. Then these parts are written consecutively to all hard disks within such array. The size of such parts may range from 2 KB to 2 MB, so each file is stored on several hard disks at the same time.

Such approach helps to speed up read and write operations, and it is evident that saving two parts of a file having the size of 1 GB to two hard disks simultaneously is much faster than saving the same 1 GB of data to one hard disk. However, this peculiarity makes file recovery more complicated.

Various RAID levels store information in different ways. Additionally, manufacturers like Buffalo also introduce some modifications to this process, and that is why data can be written to hard disk in a wide variety of ways.

How can data be recovered from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 device after a malfunction or data loss event?

If you are facing data loss or a malfunction on a NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 device, you can try the following steps to recover your data:

  1. Check hardware connections: Ensure that all the cables and connections are properly connected and functioning correctly. Sometimes, a loose cable or connection can cause data access issues.
  2. Restart the device: Power off the NAS Buffalo TeraStation and then turn it back on. This simple step can sometimes resolve minor software glitches and restore access to your data.
  3. Use Buffalo NAS Navigator: Install and run the Buffalo NAS Navigator software on your computer. It helps in detecting and accessing the NAS device on your network. If the device is detected, you may be able to access your data through the software.
  4. Check the drive status: If the NAS device has a RAID configuration, check the drive status using the device's web interface or management software. Look for any drive failures or warnings. If a drive has failed, you may need to replace it and rebuild the RAID array.
  5. Contact Buffalo support: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, reach out to Buffalo's technical support. They can provide specific guidance and assistance based on your device's model and configuration.
  6. Professional data recovery services: If the data loss is critical or the device is physically damaged, you may need to seek professional data recovery services. These services specialize in recovering data from malfunctioning or damaged storage devices. However, keep in mind that professional data recovery can be expensive.

It's important to note that data recovery is not always guaranteed, especially in cases of severe hardware failure or damage. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly back up your data to prevent loss in the first place.

How to take hard disks out of the NAS and connect them to a PC?

Although NAS TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 can be accessed over the network, you still need to take the hard disks out of the storage device and connect them to a Windows computer. Only in this case will the software be able to scan them properly. Here is what you should do:

  1. Turn off the storage and disconnect it from the power supply.

    WARNING! Before you start taking hard disks out of your NAS device, read the manual carefully. Incorrect actions may damage your network-attached storage and/or the hard disks within the RAID system.

  2. Take the hard disks out of the NAS one by one, carefully removing them from their slots. Remember that the disks are extremely vulnerable: hitting or dropping them may result in serious physical damage.

  3. Make sure to mark each hard disk in accordance with how they were installed inside the NAS.

  4. Remove the hard disks and connect them to the computer. In this video, we have explored what ports are used to connect hard disks, and what to do if there are not enough ports or connectors.

    Go to view
    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

Restoring data with Hetman RAID Recovery

Hetman Raid Recovery

This program recovers data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6. The hard disks that make up the RAID contain technical information about the algorithm used to save files. When launched, Hetman RAID Recovery reads this information and puts the damaged array together. Then you can open the disk and save your files. Also, you can recover the files accidentally deleted from the network drive.

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How to recover data from a Buffalo

How to recover data from a Buffalo

TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 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;

Safe recovery from disk images

This utility lets you save an entire copy of the disk to file and then work with this image instead of the actual disk. Such feature helps to protect data on the disk from:

  • Overwriting during the recovery process;
  • Loss resulting from bad sectors;
  • User mistakes.

To create an image, do the following:

  1. Make sure that you have enough free space to save the image. The image file size usually equals the disk size.

  2. Select the disk in the main window, and choose from the menu ToolsSave Disk. You can select multiple disks to be saved.

  3. When the image creation wizard starts, you can choose to save the entire disk or select only a part of it. Specify the parameters and click Next.

    Hetman Raid Recovery: Image Creation Wizard
  4. At this stage, you need to choose a directory where to save the image. Choose any disk connected to this PC, or save the image by FTP.

    Hetman Raid Recovery: hoose any disk connected to this PC, or save the image by FTP

Where are user’s files stored?

The Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 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.

Comparison of software for RAID recovery

Product Operating system License type RAID controller support Supported file systems Virtual RAID controller support Data recovery from damaged RAID File preview
Hetman RAID Recovery Windows Paid Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
DiskInternals RAID Recovery Windows Paid Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
R-Studio Windows, Mac, Linux Paid Yes, over 200 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
UFS Explorer RAID Recovery Windows, Mac, Linux Paid Yes, over 1,000 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
EaseUS Data Recovery Windows Paid Yes, over 20 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
ReclaiMe Free RAID Recovery Windows Free 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 WS5420DN16W6, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Harris Perkins
    Harris Perkins 1.09.2023 08:50 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 device be performed if there are issues with the network interface card or port?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 1.09.2023 09:00 #

      Yes, data recovery from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 device can still be performed even if there are issues with the network interface card or port. In such cases, the data recovery process may involve removing the hard drives from the NAS device and connecting them to a different computer or NAS device using a different network interface card or port. This allows the data recovery specialist to access the data directly from the hard drives and retrieve the necessary files.

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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 specifications of the additional hard drive compatible with the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6?

    The additional hard drive compatible with the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 should have the following key features and specifications:

    1. Compatibility: The hard drive should be compatible with the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 model.
    2. Capacity: The hard drive should have a suitable capacity based on your storage needs. The TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 supports up to 16 bays, so you can choose multiple hard drives to meet your desired storage capacity.
    3. Interface: The hard drive should have a suitable interface for connecting to the NAS device. The TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 typically supports SATA III interfaces for high-speed data transfer.
    4. Form Factor: The hard drive should have a compatible form factor, typically 3.5 inches, to fit into the drive bays of the TeraStation WS5420DN16W6.
    5. RPM (Rotations Per Minute): The hard drive should have a suitable RPM to ensure fast and efficient data access. Higher RPM drives generally offer better performance.
    6. Cache: The hard drive should have a sufficient cache size to enhance read and write operations. A larger cache helps improve overall performance.
    7. RAID Support: The hard drive should support RAID configurations, as the TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 allows for various RAID levels (e.g., RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, 51, 60, 61) to optimize data redundancy and performance.
    8. Reliability: Look for a hard drive with good reliability ratings and a suitable warranty period to ensure long-term data storage and protection.

    It is important to refer to the manufacturer's documentation or consult with technical support to ensure compatibility and optimal performance when selecting an additional hard drive for the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6.

  • How does adding an additional hard drive to the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 enhance its storage capacity and performance?

    Adding an additional hard drive to the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 enhances its storage capacity and performance in several ways:

    1. Increased Storage Capacity: By adding another hard drive, the total storage capacity of the NAS increases. This allows for more data to be stored on the device, including files, documents, media, and backups.
    2. Redundancy and Data Protection: The additional hard drive can be configured in RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) mode, such as RAID 1 or RAID 5. RAID provides data redundancy, meaning that if one drive fails, the data can be recovered from the other drives. This helps protect against data loss and ensures data availability.
    3. Improved Read and Write Performance: With multiple hard drives, the NAS can utilize techniques like striping (RAID 0) or data distribution (RAID 5) to improve read and write performance. Striping divides data across multiple drives, allowing for parallel access and faster performance. Data distribution in RAID 5 spreads data and parity information across drives, enhancing read performance.
    4. Load Balancing: By distributing data across multiple drives, the NAS can balance the workload and prevent any single drive from becoming a performance bottleneck. This helps maintain consistent performance even during high data access or transfer operations.
    5. Scalability: Adding an additional hard drive allows for future scalability. As storage needs grow, more drives can be added to expand the storage capacity of the NAS without replacing the entire system.

    Overall, adding an additional hard drive to a NAS like the Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6 enhances both storage capacity and performance, providing more storage space, data protection, improved read and write speeds, load balancing, and scalability.

  • Are there any specific installation or configuration steps required when adding an additional hard drive to the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6?

    Yes, there are specific installation and configuration steps required when adding an additional hard drive to the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN16W6. Here is a general guide:

    1. Power off the TeraStation and disconnect it from the power source.
    2. Open the front panel of the TeraStation to access the drive bays.
    3. Insert the additional hard drive into an empty drive bay. Make sure the connectors on the hard drive align with the connectors in the drive bay.
    4. Secure the hard drive in place using the provided screws or locking mechanism.
    5. Close the front panel of the TeraStation.
    6. Reconnect the TeraStation to the power source and power it on.
    7. Wait for the TeraStation to fully boot up.
    8. Log in to the TeraStation's web interface using the administrator credentials.
    9. Navigate to the Storage tab or similar section in the web interface.
    10. Locate the newly added hard drive and initialize it. This may involve formatting the drive and configuring RAID settings if desired.
    11. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the configuration process.
    12. Once the configuration is complete, the additional hard drive should be recognized by the TeraStation and ready to use for storage.

    Please note that these steps are general guidelines and may vary slightly depending on the specific model and firmware version of the TeraStation. It is always recommended to refer to the official user manual or documentation provided by Buffalo for detailed instructions specific to your device.

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