Practical Steps for Accessing RAID Disk Files When NAS Instek NR3800-2U is Not Available

When the ⭐ NAS isn't working, access RAID disk files by connecting them to a PC, configuring RAID, and using recovery software to restore data.

Practical Steps for Accessing RAID Disk Files When NAS Instek NR3800-2U is Not Available

Instek NR3800-2U NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from NR3800-2U.

Practical Steps for Accessing RAID Disk Files When NAS Instek NR3800-2U is Not Available

RAID Recovery™ 2.6
Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.
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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 Instek also introduce some modifications to this process, and that is why data can be written to hard disk in a wide variety of ways.

Can virtualization technologies impact data loss risks in NAS Instek NR3800-2U devices?

Yes, virtualization technologies can impact data loss risks in NAS Instek NR3800-2U devices.

Virtualization allows for the creation of virtual machines (VMs) that can run multiple operating systems and applications on a single physical server. By using virtualization, you can isolate different applications and workloads, reducing the risk of data loss caused by software conflicts or crashes.

Additionally, virtualization technologies offer features such as snapshots and backups that can help protect against data loss. Snapshots allow you to capture the state of a VM at a specific point in time, so if data is accidentally deleted or corrupted, you can revert to a previous snapshot to restore the data. Backups can also be performed on VMs, ensuring that data is regularly copied and stored in a separate location for disaster recovery purposes.

By leveraging virtualization technologies, you can enhance the reliability and availability of data stored in NAS Instek NR3800-2U devices, reducing the risk of data loss.

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

Although NAS NR3800-2U 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 Instek NR3800-2U. 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 Instek

How to recover data from a Instek

NR3800-2U has 8 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;

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 Instek NR3800-2U 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.

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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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 NR3800-2U, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Gordon Legge-Bourke
    Gordon Legge-Bourke 8.09.2023 21:51 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Instek NR3800-2U device be done if the disks have been reformatted?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 8.09.2023 22:59 #

      If the disks of a NAS Instek NR3800-2U device have been reformatted, data recovery may still be possible, but it depends on the extent of the reformatting and the actions taken afterward. Here are a few factors to consider:

      1. Type of reformatting: If the disks were quick-formatted or the file system was simply overwritten with a new one, there is a higher chance of recovering data using specialized recovery software. However, if the disks were fully formatted or overwritten with new data, the chances of recovery decrease significantly.
      2. Time elapsed after reformatting: The longer the time between the reformatting and the data recovery attempt, the lower the chances of successful recovery. This is because the more the disks are used after reformatting, the higher the probability that the original data has been overwritten.
      3. Data recovery tools and expertise: Professional data recovery services or specialized software can greatly increase the chances of recovering data from reformatted disks. These tools can scan the disks for remnants of the original data and attempt to reconstruct it.

      It is important to note that data recovery is not always guaranteed, especially if the disks have been extensively overwritten or damaged. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a professional data recovery service or expert who can assess the specific situation and provide appropriate guidance.

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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 capabilities of the NAS Instek NR3800-2U that make it suitable for use as a website server?

    The NAS Instek NR3800-2U is a network-attached storage device that can be used as a website server due to its key features and capabilities. Here are some of them:

    1. High storage capacity: The NR3800-2U can accommodate multiple hard drives, allowing for a large storage capacity. This is essential for hosting a website that requires ample space for storing files, databases, and media.
    2. RAID support: The device supports various RAID configurations, such as RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, and JBOD. RAID provides data redundancy and improves performance, ensuring the website's data remains accessible and protected in case of a drive failure.
    3. Dual Gigabit Ethernet ports: The NAS has two Gigabit Ethernet ports, enabling high-speed data transfer and network connectivity. This is crucial for hosting a website that requires fast and reliable access to the internet.
    4. Scalability: The NR3800-2U is designed to be scalable, allowing for easy expansion of storage capacity as the website's needs grow. Additional hard drives can be added or replaced without disrupting the server's operation.
    5. Multiple server applications: The device supports various server applications, including web server software like Apache or Nginx. It also supports FTP, DNS, and other server protocols, making it versatile for hosting different types of websites.
    6. Backup and data protection: The NAS has built-in backup features, such as scheduled backups and remote replication, ensuring the website's data is regularly backed up and protected. This is essential to prevent data loss and maintain the website's availability.
    7. Remote access and management: The NR3800-2U allows remote access and management, enabling administrators to monitor and control the website server from anywhere. This is convenient for troubleshooting, maintenance, and updates.
    8. Security features: The device offers various security features like user authentication, access control, and encryption to protect the website's data and prevent unauthorized access.

    Overall, the NAS Instek NR3800-2U provides the necessary storage capacity, performance, scalability, and security features required for hosting a website.

  • How does the NAS Instek NR3800-2U ensure reliable and secure hosting for websites?

    The NAS Instek NR3800-2U ensures reliable and secure hosting for websites through several features and functionalities:

    1. Redundant Power Supply: The server is equipped with dual power supplies, ensuring that even if one power supply fails, the other one takes over seamlessly, minimizing downtime and ensuring continuous operation.
    2. RAID Technology: The server supports RAID configurations, which allow for data redundancy and protection against disk failures. This ensures that even if a hard drive fails, the data remains accessible and the website stays online.
    3. Network Connectivity: The NR3800-2U has multiple network interfaces, providing high-speed and reliable connectivity. This allows for load balancing and failover, ensuring that the website remains accessible even in the event of a network failure or heavy traffic.
    4. Firewall and Security Features: The server includes built-in firewall capabilities to protect against unauthorized access and malicious attacks. It can filter and monitor network traffic, preventing potential threats from reaching the hosted websites.
    5. Data Backup and Recovery: The NR3800-2U supports various backup and recovery options, including scheduled backups to external storage devices or cloud services. In case of data loss or corruption, the server can quickly restore the website to a previous state, minimizing downtime and data loss.
    6. Remote Management: The server can be remotely managed and monitored, allowing administrators to monitor system health, perform maintenance tasks, and apply security updates without physical access to the server. This ensures prompt response and efficient management of the hosting environment.
    7. Scalability and Flexibility: The NR3800-2U is designed to accommodate the growth of websites and applications. It supports expansion options such as additional hard drives, memory, and network cards, allowing for easy scalability as hosting requirements increase.

    Overall, the NAS Instek NR3800-2U combines various hardware and software features to ensure reliable and secure hosting for websites, minimizing downtime, protecting against data loss, and providing robust network connectivity and security measures.

  • Can the NAS Instek NR3800-2U handle high traffic and scalability requirements for growing websites?

    The NAS Instek NR3800-2U is a network-attached storage device and not specifically designed for handling high traffic and scalability requirements for growing websites.

    While it can provide storage and backup solutions for websites, its primary function is to provide reliable data storage and sharing within a network environment. It may not have the necessary processing power, memory, and network capabilities to handle high levels of website traffic or support scalability requirements.

    For growing websites with high traffic and scalability needs, it is recommended to consider dedicated web servers or cloud-based hosting solutions that are specifically designed to handle such requirements. These solutions typically offer better performance, scalability, and flexibility to accommodate the growth of websites.

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