How to Retrieve Lost Data from NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock (STLG40000400 / STLG36000400 / STLG32000400 / STLG28000400 / STLG20000400 / STLG16000400)

Has your NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock (STLG40000400 / STLG36000400 / STLG32000400 / STLG28000400 / STLG20000400 / STLG16000400) 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?

How to Retrieve Lost Data from NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock (STLG40000400 / STLG36000400 / STLG32000400 / STLG28000400 / STLG20000400 / STLG16000400)

LaCie 2 Big Dock (STLG40000400 / STLG36000400 / STLG32000400 / STLG28000400 / STLG20000400 / STLG16000400) 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 2 Big Dock (STLG40000400 / STLG36000400 / STLG32000400 / STLG28000400 / STLG20000400 / STLG16000400). We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

How to Retrieve Lost Data from NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock (STLG40000400 / STLG36000400 / STLG32000400 / STLG28000400 / STLG20000400 / STLG16000400)

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 LaCie 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 LaCie 2 Big Dock (STLG40000400 / STLG36000400 / STLG32000400 / STLG28000400 / STLG20000400 / STLG16000400) device hardware lead to data loss?

Yes, improper handling or maintenance of the NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock device hardware can potentially lead to data loss. Here are a few scenarios where mishandling or inadequate maintenance can result in data loss:

  1. Physical damage: Dropping or mishandling the device can cause internal components to become damaged, leading to data corruption or loss.
  2. Power surges or electrical issues: If the device is not properly protected against power surges or connected to a stable power source, it can result in hardware failure and potential data loss.
  3. Overheating: Inadequate cooling or ventilation can cause the device to overheat, which may result in data corruption or damage to the internal components.
  4. Incorrect firmware updates: If firmware updates are not performed correctly or interrupted during the process, it can lead to device malfunction or data corruption.
  5. Inadequate backup strategy: Failure to regularly backup the data stored on the NAS device increases the risk of data loss in case of hardware failure or other issues.

To minimize the risk of data loss, it is important to handle the NAS device with care, follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance, ensure proper power supply and cooling, and regularly backup the data stored on the device.

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

Although the NAS 2 Big Dock (STLG40000400 / STLG36000400 / STLG32000400 / STLG28000400 / STLG20000400 / STLG16000400) 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 LaCie 2 Big Dock (STLG40000400 / STLG36000400 / STLG32000400 / STLG28000400 / STLG20000400 / STLG16000400). 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 LaCie

How to recover data from a LaCie

2 Big Dock (STLG40000400 / STLG36000400 / STLG32000400 / STLG28000400 / STLG20000400 / STLG16000400) has 2 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 0;
  • RAID 1;
  • 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 LaCie 2 Big Dock (STLG40000400 / STLG36000400 / STLG32000400 / STLG28000400 / STLG20000400 / STLG16000400) network-attached storage keeps LaCie NAS OS 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 2 Big Dock (STLG40000400 / STLG36000400 / STLG32000400 / STLG28000400 / STLG20000400 / STLG16000400), feel free to leave a comment!
  • Lawrence Coaker
    Lawrence Coaker 22.08.2023 15:42 #
    Are there any specific backup software recommended for data recovery from NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock (STLG40000400 / STLG36000400 / STLG32000400 / STLG28000400 / STLG20000400 / STLG16000400) devices?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 22.08.2023 15:59 #

      There are several backup software options available for data recovery from NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock devices. Some popular choices include:

      1. Acronis True Image: This software provides comprehensive backup and recovery solutions for NAS devices, including LaCie 2 Big Dock. It offers features like full-image backups, incremental backups, and easy recovery options.
      2. EaseUS Todo Backup: This software is known for its user-friendly interface and powerful backup capabilities. It supports NAS devices, including LaCie 2 Big Dock, and offers features like system backup, file backup, and disk cloning.
      3. NovaBACKUP: This software is designed specifically for NAS devices and provides efficient backup and recovery solutions. It supports LaCie 2 Big Dock and offers features like automatic backups, disaster recovery options, and easy data restoration.
      4. Synology Hyper Backup: Although primarily designed for Synology NAS devices, this software can also be used with LaCie 2 Big Dock. It provides various backup options, including incremental backup, versioning, and data deduplication.
      5. QNAP Backup Solutions: QNAP offers its own backup software for NAS devices, which can be used with LaCie 2 Big Dock. It provides features like scheduled backups, file synchronization, and data recovery options.

      It's important to note that compatibility may vary depending on the specific model and firmware version of your LaCie 2 Big Dock device. It is recommended to check the software's documentation and compatibility requirements before making a choice.

Post comment
User
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 key features and benefits of using the NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock as central storage for your data?

    The key features and benefits of using the NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock as central storage for your data are:

    1. High storage capacity: The NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock offers large storage capacities, ranging from 4TB to 20TB, allowing you to store a significant amount of data in a single location.
    2. RAID functionality: It supports RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations, providing data protection and redundancy. RAID 0 offers increased performance by striping data across multiple drives, while RAID 1 mirrors data on two drives for enhanced data security.
    3. Thunderbolt 3 connectivity: The NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock features Thunderbolt 3 technology, enabling high-speed data transfer and daisy-chaining multiple devices. It offers data transfer speeds of up to 440MB/s, ensuring quick access to your files.
    4. Integrated docking station: It includes a built-in docking station with various ports, such as USB 3.0, USB-C, DisplayPort, and SD/CF card slots. This allows you to connect peripherals, charge devices, and even connect to external displays, making it a versatile storage solution.
    5. Easy setup and management: The NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock is designed for user-friendly setup and management. It comes with LaCie RAID Manager software, allowing you to configure RAID settings, monitor drive health, and manage backups effortlessly.
    6. Data protection and backup: It offers hardware encryption and password protection to secure your data from unauthorized access. Additionally, it supports Time Machine backups for Mac users and includes backup software for PC users, ensuring data integrity.
    7. Scalability: The NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock is expandable, allowing you to add additional storage capacity through its USB and Thunderbolt 3 ports. This makes it suitable for growing storage needs.
    8. Versatile compatibility: It is compatible with both Mac and Windows systems, ensuring seamless integration into your existing setup.

    Overall, the NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock provides high-capacity storage, data protection, fast transfer speeds, and versatile connectivity options, making it an ideal central storage solution for individuals or small businesses.

  • How does the NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock facilitate seamless data management and organization for multiple devices and users?

    The NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock facilitates seamless data management and organization for multiple devices and users through several features:

    1. High storage capacity: The NAS has a large storage capacity, typically ranging from several terabytes to multiple petabytes. This allows it to accommodate a vast amount of data from multiple devices and users.
    2. RAID configuration: The NAS supports RAID configurations, such as RAID 0, RAID 1, or RAID 5. These configurations provide data redundancy and protection against drive failures, ensuring that data remains intact even if a drive fails.
    3. Multiple drive bays: The NAS typically comes with multiple drive bays, allowing users to add or replace hard drives easily. This facilitates scalability and flexibility in data storage, enabling users to expand the storage capacity as needed.
    4. File sharing and access control: The NAS provides file sharing capabilities, allowing multiple users to access and collaborate on files stored on the device. It supports various protocols like SMB, AFP, FTP, or NFS, enabling seamless file sharing across different operating systems and devices. Additionally, access controls can be set up to restrict or grant specific permissions to different users or groups.
    5. Centralized management: The NAS offers a centralized management interface that allows users to easily configure and manage the device. This includes setting up user accounts, creating shared folders, managing access permissions, and monitoring storage usage. Centralized management simplifies data organization and ensures consistent access and security settings across multiple devices and users.
    6. Backup and synchronization: The NAS often includes built-in backup and synchronization features, allowing users to automatically back up their data from various devices to the NAS. This ensures data integrity and provides an additional layer of protection against data loss. Synchronization features also enable users to access the latest version of files from different devices, ensuring seamless collaboration.
    7. Integration with cloud services: Many NAS devices offer integration with cloud storage services like Dropbox, Google Drive, or Amazon S3. This allows users to seamlessly sync and backup data between the NAS and cloud storage, providing an additional level of data redundancy and accessibility.

    Overall, the NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock combines high storage capacity, data redundancy, file sharing, access control, centralized management, backup, and synchronization features to facilitate seamless data management and organization for multiple devices and users.

  • Can you provide a step-by-step guide on setting up and configuring the NAS LaCie 2 Big Dock as the central storage solution in a network environment?

    Certainly! Here is a step-by-step guide on setting up and configuring the LaCie 2 Big Dock as the central storage solution in a network environment:

    Step 1: Unboxing and Physical Setup

    • Unbox the LaCie 2 Big Dock and ensure that all the necessary components are included.
    • Connect the power adapter to the dock and plug it into a power outlet.
    • Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the dock's Ethernet port and the other end to your network router or switch.
    • Connect the dock to your computer using the provided Thunderbolt or USB cable.

    Step 2: Initial Configuration

    • Power on the LaCie 2 Big Dock and wait for it to boot up.
    • On your computer, open a web browser and enter the default IP address of the dock (usually 192.168.1.1) in the address bar.
    • You will be prompted to enter a username and password. The default credentials are usually admin/admin.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the basic network settings, such as IP address, subnet mask, and gateway. You can usually leave the DNS settings as automatic.

    Step 3: RAID Configuration

    • Once the basic network settings are configured, navigate to the RAID configuration section in the web interface.
    • Select the desired RAID mode (e.g., RAID 0 for maximum performance, RAID 1 for data redundancy) and follow the instructions to set it up.
    • Choose the desired RAID capacity and confirm the changes. Note that setting up RAID will erase all existing data on the drives, so make sure to back up any important data beforehand.

    Step 4: User and Share Management

    • In the web interface, navigate to the user and share management section.
    • Create user accounts with appropriate access permissions for different users or groups.
    • Create shared folders and assign the appropriate user/group permissions to control access to the shared data.

    Step 5: Advanced Configuration

    • Explore the advanced settings in the web interface to configure additional features such as network protocols (SMB, AFP, NFS), FTP access, or remote access via mobile apps.
    • Set up any additional security measures, such as enabling encryption or configuring firewall settings.

    Step 6: Testing and Accessing the NAS

    • Once the configuration is complete, test the NAS by accessing it from other devices on the network.
    • On your computer or other devices, open the file explorer or finder and enter the network address or IP address of the NAS to access the shared folders.
    • You can now start transferring files to the NAS and use it as the central storage solution in your network environment.

    Remember to consult the user manual or documentation provided by LaCie for any specific instructions or additional features of the LaCie 2 Big Dock.