Step-by-Step Guide to Recovering NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 RAID Array

Has your NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 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?

Step-by-Step Guide to Recovering NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 RAID Array

Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 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 WS5420DN32S9. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

Step-by-Step Guide to Recovering NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 RAID Array

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 data be lost during the process of upgrading or updating the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 device's firmware?

Yes, data can potentially be lost during the process of upgrading or updating the firmware on a NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 device. It is always recommended to back up any important data before performing any firmware updates or upgrades to avoid potential data loss or corruption.

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

Although the NAS TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 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 WS5420DN32S9. 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 WS5420DN32S9 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 WS5420DN32S9 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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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 WS5420DN32S9, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Kian Trimble
    Kian Trimble 1.09.2023 02:58 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 device be done if the device is showing signs of overheating or cooling fan failure?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 1.09.2023 03:00 #

      If a NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 device is showing signs of overheating or cooling fan failure, it is important to address these issues first before attempting data recovery. Overheating can cause further damage to the device and potentially result in permanent data loss.

      Here are a few steps to consider:

      1. Ensure proper ventilation: Make sure the NAS device is placed in a well-ventilated area with sufficient airflow. Remove any obstructions that may be blocking the cooling vents.
      2. Replace or repair cooling fans: If the cooling fans are not functioning properly, they should be replaced or repaired. Contact the manufacturer or a professional technician for assistance with fan replacement.
      3. Monitor temperature: Use the NAS device's built-in temperature monitoring tools, if available, to keep an eye on the temperature. If it continues to rise even after addressing the cooling fan issue, consider contacting the manufacturer or a professional for further assistance.
      4. Backup data: If the device is still operational, it is crucial to back up the data immediately. Transfer the important files to a separate storage device or cloud backup service to ensure data safety.

      If the device is not functioning properly or the data is already inaccessible due to the overheating or cooling fan failure, it is recommended to contact a professional data recovery service. They have specialized tools and expertise to recover data from damaged or malfunctioning NAS devices.

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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 is SSH and how does it work as a protocol for secure remote access to network devices?

    SSH, which stands for Secure Shell, is a cryptographic network protocol used to establish a secure and encrypted connection between a client and a server. It provides a secure channel over an unsecured network, allowing users to securely access and manage network devices remotely.

    The SSH protocol works by using a client-server model. When a user initiates an SSH connection, the client software (such as PuTTY or OpenSSH) sends a request to connect to the server. The server, which has SSH server software installed, verifies the client's identity and grants access if the credentials are valid.

    Here's a high-level overview of how SSH works:

    1. Connection initiation: The client sends a request to connect to the server, specifying the SSH protocol version and encryption algorithms it supports.
    2. Server authentication: Upon receiving the connection request, the server sends its public key to the client to verify its identity. The client checks the key against its list of trusted keys and, if valid, generates a session key.
    3. Encryption and session key exchange: The client and server negotiate encryption algorithms and exchange encryption keys using the Diffie-Hellman key exchange algorithm. This ensures that the subsequent communication is encrypted and secure.
    4. User authentication: The client presents the user's credentials (username and password or public key) to the server for authentication. The server verifies the credentials and grants access if valid.
    5. Secure communication: Once authenticated, the client and server use the session key to encrypt the data exchanged during the SSH session. This ensures that the communication between the client and server remains confidential and protected from eavesdropping or tampering.

    SSH also supports various features like port forwarding, X11 forwarding, and file transfer, enabling users to securely access network devices and perform tasks remotely.

    Overall, SSH provides a secure method for remote access to network devices by encrypting the communication and authenticating both the client and server, thereby preventing unauthorized access and protecting sensitive data.

  • How does the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 utilize SSH for secure file transfers and remote management?

    The NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 utilizes SSH (Secure Shell) for secure file transfers and remote management by implementing the SSH protocol.

    SSH is a cryptographic network protocol that provides a secure channel for remote login, file transfer, and other network services. It uses encryption to ensure secure communication between the client and the server.

    To utilize SSH for secure file transfers, the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 allows users to connect to the device using SSH client software. Once connected, users can securely transfer files to and from the NAS by using commands such as SCP (Secure Copy) or SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol).

    For remote management, the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 provides a command-line interface (CLI) that can be accessed through an SSH connection. This allows administrators to remotely manage and configure the NAS using SSH commands. They can perform tasks such as configuring network settings, creating and managing user accounts, setting up file sharing, and monitoring system performance.

    By utilizing SSH, the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 ensures that file transfers and remote management sessions are encrypted and secure, protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access or interception.

  • What are the advantages and benefits of using SSH in the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 compared to other remote access protocols?

    Using SSH (Secure Shell) in the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 offers several advantages and benefits compared to other remote access protocols:

    1. Enhanced security: SSH provides secure encrypted communication between the client and the server, protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access and potential eavesdropping. It uses strong cryptographic algorithms to ensure data integrity and confidentiality.
    2. Authentication options: SSH supports various authentication methods, including password-based authentication, public key authentication, and two-factor authentication. This allows for flexible and robust authentication mechanisms, enhancing the overall security of remote access.
    3. Portability: SSH is a widely supported protocol and is available on multiple operating systems, making it highly portable. This means you can access the NAS from different devices and platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile devices.
    4. Command-line access: SSH provides a command-line interface (CLI) that allows for powerful remote management capabilities. It enables administrators to execute commands, perform administrative tasks, and automate processes remotely, providing greater control and flexibility.
    5. Secure file transfer: SSH includes the Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), which allows for secure file transfers between the client and the server. SFTP ensures data integrity and confidentiality during file transfers, making it a safer alternative to other file transfer protocols like FTP.
    6. Firewall-friendly: SSH can traverse firewalls and network address translation (NAT) devices easily. It uses a single port (typically port 22) for communication, simplifying network configuration and enabling remote access even in restrictive network environments.
    7. Auditability and logging: SSH provides detailed logging capabilities, allowing administrators to track and monitor remote access activities. This helps in auditing and troubleshooting, ensuring accountability and providing a record of actions performed on the NAS.
    8. Community support and documentation: SSH is a well-established and widely used protocol, resulting in a large community of users and developers. This means there is extensive documentation, tutorials, and support available, making it easier to troubleshoot issues and find solutions.

    Overall, using SSH in the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN32S9 offers a secure, flexible, and efficient method for remote access and management, with robust authentication, encryption, and administrative capabilities.