Accessing Files on a RAID Disk When NAS Instek NR5400-4U is Not Available: Step-by-Step Guide

Has your NAS Instek NR5400-4U 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?

Accessing Files on a RAID Disk When NAS Instek NR5400-4U is Not Available: Step-by-Step Guide

Instek NR5400-4U 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 NR5400-4U. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

Accessing Files on a RAID Disk When NAS Instek NR5400-4U is Not Available: Step-by-Step Guide

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 Instek 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.

How can regular software updates and patches enhance the security and stability of NAS Instek NR5400-4U devices?

Regular software updates and patches can enhance the security and stability of NAS Instek NR5400-4U devices in the following ways:

  1. Security Vulnerability Fixes: Updates and patches often include fixes for known security vulnerabilities. By applying these updates, you ensure that any identified security weaknesses in the device's software are addressed, reducing the risk of exploitation by potential attackers.
  2. Bug Fixes and Stability Improvements: Updates and patches also address software bugs and stability issues. By installing these updates, you can resolve any existing issues that may impact the device's performance, stability, or functionality. This helps to ensure that the device operates smoothly and reliably.
  3. Compatibility with New Technologies: Software updates and patches often introduce compatibility with new technologies or protocols. By keeping your device up to date, you can take advantage of the latest advancements and ensure that your device remains compatible with other systems and devices in your network.
  4. Improved Security Features: Updates and patches may introduce new security features or enhancements to existing ones. These updates can provide additional layers of protection against emerging threats and help to strengthen the overall security posture of the device.
  5. Compliance with Industry Standards: Regular updates and patches help to ensure that your device remains compliant with industry standards and regulations. Compliance is essential for organizations that handle sensitive data, as it helps to meet security and privacy requirements.
  6. Protection Against Exploits: Cybercriminals constantly discover new vulnerabilities and develop exploits. Regular updates and patches help to protect against these exploits by patching known vulnerabilities and reducing the attack surface of the device.

To ensure the security and stability of your NAS Instek NR5400-4U device, it is crucial to regularly check for updates and patches provided by the manufacturer. Additionally, it is recommended to follow best practices such as using strong passwords, enabling firewalls, and implementing proper access controls to further enhance device security.

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

Although the NAS NR5400-4U 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 Instek NR5400-4U. 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 Instek

How to recover data from a Instek

NR5400-4U has 24 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 Instek NR5400-4U 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

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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 NR5400-4U, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Daniel Witherspoon
    Daniel Witherspoon 8.09.2023 23:44 #
    Can deleted files be recovered from a NAS Instek NR5400-4U device?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 9.09.2023 00:59 #

      It is possible to recover deleted files from a NAS Instek NR5400-4U device, but it depends on several factors.

      If the files were recently deleted, there is a higher chance of recovery as they may still be present in the device's recycle bin or trash folder. In such cases, you can simply restore the files from there.

      If the files were permanently deleted or the recycle bin was emptied, the chances of recovery are lower. However, it may still be possible to recover the files using specialized data recovery software or by contacting a professional data recovery service.

      It is important to note that attempting to recover deleted files from a NAS device can be complex and may require technical expertise. It is recommended to consult with a professional or the manufacturer's support team for guidance and assistance in such situations.

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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 various file access security features offered by the NAS Instek NR5400-4U system?

    The NAS Instek NR5400-4U system offers various file access security features, including:

    1. User and Group Management: The system allows administrators to create and manage user accounts and groups, enabling fine-grained control over file access permissions.
    2. Access Control Lists (ACLs): ACLs provide more granular control over file access by allowing administrators to set permissions for specific users or groups on individual files or directories.
    3. Shared Folder Permissions: Administrators can assign different access permissions (read, write, execute) to users or groups for shared folders, ensuring only authorized users can access or modify files within those folders.
    4. IP Access Control: The system allows administrators to specify which IP addresses or IP ranges are allowed to access the NAS, adding an extra layer of security by restricting access to authorized networks.
    5. Secure Socket Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS): The system supports SSL/TLS encryption to secure file transfers over the network, preventing unauthorized access or interception of data.
    6. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): The NAS supports 2FA, adding an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide a second form of authentication (such as a code from a mobile app) in addition to their password.
    7. Antivirus Integration: The system can integrate with antivirus software to scan files for malware or other security threats, ensuring that the NAS remains protected from malicious files.
    8. File Auditing and Logging: The NAS logs file access activities, allowing administrators to monitor and track who accessed or modified files, providing an audit trail for security purposes.
    9. Network-based File System (NFS) Access Control: The system supports NFS access control, allowing administrators to define access permissions for NFS clients, ensuring secure access to shared files over the network.

    These security features help protect the files stored on the NAS Instek NR5400-4U system from unauthorized access, ensuring data confidentiality and integrity.

  • How does the NAS Instek NR5400-4U ensure secure file access and prevent unauthorized access?

    The NAS Instek NR5400-4U ensures secure file access and prevents unauthorized access through several methods:

    1. User Authentication: The NAS device requires users to authenticate themselves before accessing files. This can be done through various methods such as username and password, LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol), or Active Directory integration. User authentication ensures that only authorized individuals can access the files.
    2. Access Control Lists (ACLs): The NAS device allows administrators to set up Access Control Lists, which define the permissions for each user or group. ACLs specify whether a user can read, write, or execute files, and can be set at the file level or folder level. This ensures that only authorized users have the necessary permissions to access specific files.
    3. Encryption: The NAS Instek NR5400-4U supports encryption protocols such as SSL/TLS (Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security) and AES (Advanced Encryption Standard). These protocols encrypt the data being transmitted over the network, preventing unauthorized interception and ensuring the confidentiality of the files.
    4. Firewall and IP Filtering: The NAS device may have built-in firewall features that can be configured to restrict access to specific IP addresses or IP ranges. This prevents unauthorized access from external networks or specific devices.
    5. Intrusion Detection and Prevention: The NAS device may have intrusion detection and prevention systems in place to detect and block any suspicious activities or unauthorized attempts to access files. These systems can monitor network traffic, analyze patterns, and take action to prevent unauthorized access.
    6. Data Backup and Recovery: The NAS device may have built-in backup and recovery features, allowing administrators to create regular backups of the files. In the event of unauthorized access or data loss, the backups can be used to restore the files to their original state.

    It is important to note that the specific security features and capabilities may vary depending on the model and firmware version of the NAS Instek NR5400-4U. It is recommended to refer to the product documentation or contact the manufacturer for detailed information on the security measures implemented in the device.

  • Can you explain the role of user authentication and access control mechanisms in the NAS Instek NR5400-4U file access security system?

    User authentication and access control mechanisms play a crucial role in the NAS Instek NR5400-4U file access security system. These mechanisms ensure that only authorized users can access the system and its files, thereby protecting sensitive data and preventing unauthorized access.

    1. User Authentication: This mechanism verifies the identity of users attempting to access the NAS system. It typically involves the use of usernames and passwords, which users must provide to authenticate themselves. The NAS Instek NR5400-4U may also support additional authentication methods such as two-factor authentication or biometric authentication for enhanced security.
    2. Access Control: Once a user is authenticated, access control mechanisms determine the level of access they have to the files and resources within the NAS system. Access control lists (ACLs) are commonly used to define permissions for individual users or groups. These permissions can include read, write, execute, or delete access rights, among others.
    3. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): RBAC is a more advanced access control mechanism that assigns permissions based on user roles or job functions. It simplifies access management by grouping users with similar responsibilities and granting them predefined access rights. This approach enhances security and simplifies administration by reducing the complexity of managing individual user permissions.
    4. Secure File Transfer Protocols: The NAS Instek NR5400-4U may support secure file transfer protocols such as FTPS (FTP over SSL/TLS), SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol), or HTTPS (HTTP over SSL/TLS). These protocols encrypt data during transit, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure while being transferred between the NAS system and client devices.
    5. Audit Logs: The security system may also include audit logging capabilities, which record user activities and access attempts. These logs can be used for monitoring and investigating any suspicious or unauthorized activities, providing an additional layer of security and accountability.

    Overall, user authentication and access control mechanisms in the NAS Instek NR5400-4U file access security system work together to ensure that only authorized users can access files, while also providing various levels of access based on user roles and permissions.