Recovering from a Faulty RAID Array in NAS Huawei OceanStor 5300: A How-To

Has your NAS Huawei OceanStor 5300 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 from a Faulty RAID Array in NAS Huawei OceanStor 5300: A How-To

Huawei OceanStor 5300 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 OceanStor 5300. 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 from a Faulty RAID Array in NAS Huawei OceanStor 5300: A How-To

RAID Recovery™ 2.8
Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.
Download

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 Huawei 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 handling or maintenance of NAS Huawei OceanStor 5300 device hardware lead to data loss?

Yes, improper handling or maintenance of any storage device, including the NAS Huawei OceanStor 5300, can potentially lead to data loss. The hardware components of the device, such as hard drives, power supply units, or cooling fans, can fail if not handled or maintained correctly. These failures can result in data corruption or complete loss of data if not properly addressed. It is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for handling, maintenance, and regular backups to minimize the risk of data loss.

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

Although the NAS OceanStor 5300 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 Huawei OceanStor 5300. 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 Huawei

How to recover data from a Huawei

OceanStor 5300 has 1200 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 0;
  • RAID 1;
  • RAID 5;
  • RAID 6;
  • RAID 50;
  • RAID 60;
  • 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 Huawei OceanStor 5300 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

Feedback

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 OceanStor 5300, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Pete Pitt-Rivers
    Pete Pitt-Rivers 25.08.2023 22:54 #
    Is it possible to recover data from a NAS Huawei OceanStor 5300 device if the storage disks have been physically disconnected or damaged?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 25.08.2023 23:00 #

      If the storage disks of a Huawei OceanStor 5300 device have been physically disconnected or damaged, it may still be possible to recover data depending on the extent of the damage. Here are a few scenarios:

      1. Disconnected disks: If the disks have been disconnected but are still physically intact, you can reconnect them to the NAS device and attempt to recover the data using appropriate software or by seeking professional help.
      2. Damaged disks: If the disks are physically damaged, data recovery becomes more challenging. In such cases, you may need to rely on specialized data recovery services that have the expertise and tools to recover data from damaged storage media. They can attempt to repair the disks or extract data directly from the damaged components.
      3. RAID configuration: The Huawei OceanStor 5300 typically uses a RAID configuration for data redundancy and performance. If the disks are damaged but the RAID configuration remains intact, you may be able to rebuild the RAID array using replacement disks and recover the data.

      It's important to note that data recovery from physically damaged disks can be a complex and expensive process. It is recommended to consult with professional data recovery services who can assess the situation and provide the best course of action based on the specific circumstances.

Post comment
User
Leave a reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

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.

Share

Questions and answers

  • What are the different file access levels available on the NAS Huawei OceanStor 5300?

    The Huawei OceanStor 5300 NAS provides the following file access levels:

    1. Read-Only: Users can only read files and folders but cannot modify or delete them.
    2. Read/Write: Users can read, modify, and delete files and folders.
    3. Read/Write/Delete: Users can read, modify, delete, and create files and folders.
    4. No Access: Users are denied access to the specified files and folders.

    These access levels can be assigned to different users or user groups based on their permissions and requirements.

  • How can file access levels be configured and managed on the NAS Huawei OceanStor 5300?

    To configure and manage file access levels on the Huawei OceanStor 5300 NAS, you can follow these steps:

    1. Log in to the OceanStor DeviceManager web management interface using the admin account.
    2. Navigate to the "File System" section and select the desired file system.
    3. Under the "Access Control" tab, click on "Access Control List (ACL)".
    4. Here, you can configure access control rules for different users or user groups. Click on "Create" to add a new rule.
    5. Specify the user or user group, the permissions (read, write, execute), and the access scope (file or directory).
    6. Click "OK" to save the access control rule.
    7. To manage existing access control rules, select the rule and click on "Modify" or "Delete" as required.
    8. You can also enable or disable the access control feature for the file system by toggling the "Enable" button under the "Access Control" tab.
    9. Additionally, you can set default access permissions for new files and directories by clicking on the "Default ACL" tab.
    10. Under the "Default ACL" tab, click on "Create" to add a new default access control rule.
    11. Specify the default permissions and access scope for files and directories.
    12. Click "OK" to save the default access control rule.
    13. To manage existing default access control rules, select the rule and click on "Modify" or "Delete" as required.

    By configuring and managing file access levels using the above steps, you can ensure that users or user groups have appropriate permissions to access and modify files and directories on the Huawei OceanStor 5300 NAS.

  • What are the security implications and best practices when setting file access levels on the NAS Huawei OceanStor 5300?

    Setting file access levels on the NAS Huawei OceanStor 5300 involves considering several security implications and following best practices. Here are some key points to consider:

    1. Authentication and access control: Implement strong authentication mechanisms such as username/password combinations or integration with existing authentication systems like Active Directory. Ensure that only authorized users have access to the NAS and its files.
    2. Role-based access control (RBAC): Assign users to specific roles based on their job responsibilities. This ensures that users have appropriate access rights and privileges, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or accidental data breaches.
    3. Principle of least privilege (PoLP): Follow the principle of least privilege, granting users the minimum access required to perform their tasks. Restrict access to sensitive data to only those who need it to prevent unauthorized access or data leakage.
    4. Encryption: Enable encryption for data in transit and at rest. This ensures that even if someone gains unauthorized access to the NAS or its files, the data remains encrypted and unreadable.
    5. Regular user access reviews: Conduct periodic reviews of user access rights to ensure that access levels are appropriate and up-to-date. Remove access for users who no longer require it and promptly revoke access for terminated employees.
    6. Secure file sharing protocols: Use secure file sharing protocols such as HTTPS or SFTP to encrypt data during transmission. Avoid using insecure protocols like FTP or HTTP, which can expose data to interception or unauthorized access.
    7. Network segmentation: Implement network segmentation to isolate the NAS from other network segments. This prevents unauthorized access to the NAS from other parts of the network and limits the potential impact of a security breach.
    8. Regular software updates: Keep the NAS firmware and software up-to-date with the latest security patches. Regularly check for updates and apply them promptly to address any known vulnerabilities.
    9. Data backup and disaster recovery: Implement a robust backup and disaster recovery strategy to protect against data loss or corruption. Regularly back up critical data and test the restoration process to ensure its effectiveness.
    10. Monitoring and auditing: Enable logging and monitoring features on the NAS to track user activities and detect any suspicious or unauthorized access attempts. Regularly review logs and audit trails to identify and investigate any security incidents.

    By following these best practices, you can enhance the security of the NAS Huawei OceanStor 5300 and protect your data from unauthorized access or breaches.