How to recover data from Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9 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 WS5420RN32S9

Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9 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 WS5420RN32S9.

How to recover data from NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9

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 fragmentation impact the read and write speeds, and potential data loss on NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9 devices?

Data fragmentation can have several impacts on read and write speeds, as well as potential data loss, on NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9 devices. Here are some ways data fragmentation can affect these aspects:

  1. Read and Write Speeds: When data is fragmented, it is scattered across different physical locations on the storage device. This can result in slower read and write speeds because the device needs to access multiple fragmented pieces of data, leading to increased seek times. As a result, the overall performance of the NAS device may be negatively affected.
  2. Increased Disk I/O: Fragmented data requires more disk I/O operations to access and retrieve the scattered pieces of data. This can put additional strain on the NAS device's storage system, leading to decreased performance and slower read and write speeds.
  3. Data Loss: Fragmentation can increase the risk of data loss, especially in cases where the file system becomes corrupted or errors occur during the fragmentation process. If the fragmented data is not properly managed or if there are issues with the storage system, there is a higher chance of data becoming inaccessible or lost.
  4. Reduced Efficiency: Fragmented data can lead to inefficient use of storage space. As files are split into smaller fragments, it can result in wasted disk space due to the allocation of unused gaps between fragmented blocks. This inefficiency can reduce the overall capacity of the NAS device and impact its performance.

To mitigate these impacts, it is recommended to regularly defragment the storage system on NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9 devices. Defragmentation rearranges fragmented data, consolidating it into contiguous blocks. This helps improve read and write speeds, reduces disk I/O, and minimizes the risk of data loss. Additionally, maintaining adequate free space on the NAS device and avoiding excessive file fragmentation can also help optimize performance and reduce the chances of data loss.

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

Although NAS TeraStation WS5420RN32S9 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 WS5420RN32S9. 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.

Go to view
How to recover data from a Buffalo

How to recover data from a Buffalo

TeraStation WS5420RN32S9 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 WS5420RN32S9 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 WS5420RN32S9, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Zeke Northcott
    Zeke Northcott 1.09.2023 09:51 #
    Is it possible to recover data from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9 device that has been affected by a sudden power outage or blackout?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 1.09.2023 10:59 #

      Yes, it is possible to recover data from a NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9 device that has been affected by a sudden power outage or blackout. However, the success of data recovery depends on various factors such as the extent of the damage caused by the power outage, the availability of backup solutions, and the expertise of the data recovery professionals.

      In such cases, it is recommended to follow these steps:

      1. Power off the NAS device immediately after the power outage to prevent further damage.
      2. Do not attempt to restart or repair the device on your own as it may lead to further data loss or damage.
      3. Contact a professional data recovery service provider with experience in NAS recovery.
      4. Provide detailed information about the power outage, any error messages displayed, and the current state of the device.
      5. The data recovery service provider will assess the situation and provide you with options for recovery.
      6. If the data recovery is successful, the recovered data will be transferred to a new storage device or provided to you in a suitable format.

      It's important to note that data recovery can be a complex and time-consuming process, and there is no guarantee of 100% recovery. Therefore, it is always recommended to have regular backups of important data to mitigate the risk of data loss in case of power outages or other unforeseen events.

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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

  • Which operating systems are compatible with the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9?

    The NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9 is compatible with the following operating systems:

    1. Windows 10
    2. Windows 8.1
    3. Windows 8
    4. Windows 7
    5. Windows Server 2019
    6. Windows Server 2016
    7. Windows Server 2012 R2
    8. Windows Server 2012
    9. Windows Server 2008 R2
    10. Windows Server 2008
    11. macOS 10.14 (Mojave)
    12. macOS 10.13 (High Sierra)
    13. macOS 10.12 (Sierra)
    14. macOS 10.11 (El Capitan)
    15. macOS 10.10 (Yosemite)
    16. Linux (various distributions)

    Please note that compatibility may vary depending on the specific model and firmware version of the NAS device. It is always recommended to check the manufacturer's documentation or website for the most up-to-date compatibility information.

  • Can the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9 be used with both Windows and Mac operating systems?

    Yes, the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9 can be used with both Windows and Mac operating systems. It supports both SMB (Server Message Block) and AFP (Apple Filing Protocol) file sharing protocols, allowing it to be accessed by both Windows and Mac devices on the same network.

  • Are there any specific operating system requirements or limitations for the NAS Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9?

    Yes, the Buffalo TeraStation WS5420RN32S9 has specific operating system requirements and limitations.

    Operating System Requirements:

    • Windows 10 (32-bit/64-bit)
    • Windows 8.1 (32-bit/64-bit)
    • Windows 8 (32-bit/64-bit)
    • Windows 7 (32-bit/64-bit)
    • Windows Vista (32-bit/64-bit)
    • Windows Server 2019
    • Windows Server 2016
    • Windows Server 2012 R2
    • Windows Server 2012
    • Windows Server 2008 R2
    • Windows Server 2008
    • Mac OS X 10.12 or later
    • Linux

    Limitations:

    • The NAS supports a maximum of 32 TB of storage capacity.
    • The maximum number of concurrent connections is limited to 512.
    • The supported file systems are NTFS (default), HFS+ (read-only), and exFAT (read-only).
    • The NAS does not support RAID 0 (striping) or RAID 5 (parity).
    • The maximum number of users and groups is limited to 2048.
    • The NAS does not support Active Directory server or domain controller functions.
    • The NAS does not support iSCSI targets or initiators.
    • The NAS does not support virtualization features like VMware or Hyper-V.
    • The NAS does not support FTPS (FTP over SSL/TLS) or SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol).

    It is recommended to refer to the product documentation or contact Buffalo support for the most up-to-date information on operating system requirements and limitations.

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