Effective NAS LaCie 2big RAID (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800) Data Recovery Methods

Has your NAS LaCie 2big RAID (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800) 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?

Effective NAS LaCie 2big RAID (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800) Data Recovery Methods

LaCie 2big RAID (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800) 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 2big RAID (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800). We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

Effective NAS LaCie 2big RAID (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800) Data Recovery Methods

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 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.

How can data fragmentation impact the read and write speeds, and potential data loss on NAS LaCie 2big RAID (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800) devices?

Data fragmentation can have several impacts on read and write speeds, as well as potential data loss, on NAS LaCie 2big RAID devices. Here are the implications:

  1. Read and Write Speeds: Fragmentation occurs when files are stored in non-contiguous blocks on a storage device. This can lead to slower read and write speeds on the NAS device. When a file is fragmented, the hard drive's read/write head needs to move to different physical locations to access all the fragments, causing latency and reducing overall performance.
  2. Disk Space Efficiency: Fragmentation can also lead to inefficient disk space utilization. As files become fragmented, the available free space on the NAS device is scattered across the disk, resulting in wasted storage capacity. This can limit the amount of data that can be stored and impact the overall efficiency of the device.
  3. Data Loss Risk: Fragmentation increases the risk of data loss. When files are fragmented, the chances of file corruption or errors during read and write operations are higher. If a fragmented file is not properly stored or retrieved, it can result in data loss or data corruption, making it difficult or impossible to access the file.

To mitigate these impacts, it is recommended to regularly defragment the NAS device. Defragmentation rearranges fragmented files, placing them in contiguous blocks on the disk, which improves read and write speeds and reduces the risk of data loss. Additionally, ensuring sufficient free space on the NAS device can also help minimize fragmentation.

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

Although the NAS 2big RAID (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800) 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 2big RAID (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800). 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

2big RAID (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800) 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 2big RAID (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800) 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

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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 2big RAID (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800), feel free to leave a comment!
  • Toby Parker
    Toby Parker 22.08.2023 14:45 #
    Are there any specific techniques used in data recovery from NAS LaCie 2big RAID (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800) devices with RAID configurations?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 22.08.2023 16:00 #

      Yes, there are specific techniques used in data recovery from NAS LaCie 2big RAID devices with RAID configurations. Here are some common techniques:

      1. Rebuilding RAID: If the RAID array is degraded or failed, the first step is to rebuild the RAID array. This can be done by replacing any failed drives and allowing the system to automatically rebuild the array. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions for RAID rebuilding.
      2. Data Extraction: If the RAID array is intact but the NAS device is not functioning or accessible, data can be extracted by connecting the individual hard drives to a compatible system and using specialized software to recover the data.
      3. RAID Recovery Software: There are various RAID recovery software available that can help in recovering data from a failed or corrupted RAID array. These software tools can analyze the array's configuration and rebuild the RAID structure to recover the data.
      4. Professional Data Recovery Services: In cases where the data is critical or the above methods do not work, it is advisable to seek the help of professional data recovery services. These services have specialized hardware and expertise to recover data from complex RAID configurations.

      It is important to note that data recovery from RAID systems can be complex and should be performed by experienced professionals to avoid further data loss or damage.

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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 different file access security features offered by the NAS LaCie 2big RAID models (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800)?

    The NAS LaCie 2big RAID models (STHJ4000800 / STHJ40000800 / STHJ8000800 / STHJ36000800 / STHJ28000800 / STHJ16000800) offer several file access security features, including:

    1. User and Group Management: These models allow you to create and manage multiple user accounts and groups, enabling you to assign specific access permissions to different users or groups.
    2. Access Control Lists (ACLs): ACLs provide fine-grained control over file and folder access permissions. You can set permissions for individual users or groups, allowing or denying specific actions such as read, write, and execute.
    3. Active Directory Integration: The NAS models can be integrated with an Active Directory (AD) domain, allowing you to authenticate users and manage access permissions using the existing AD infrastructure.
    4. Secure File Transfer Protocols: The NAS supports secure file transfer protocols such as FTPS (FTP over SSL/TLS) and SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol), ensuring encrypted data transfer between the NAS and client devices.
    5. HTTPS and SSL/TLS Certificates: The NAS supports HTTPS (HTTP over SSL/TLS) for secure web-based file access. You can also import SSL/TLS certificates to further enhance the security of the NAS.
    6. IP Access Control: You can restrict access to the NAS based on IP addresses or IP ranges, allowing only authorized devices or networks to connect to the NAS.
    7. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Some models may support two-factor authentication, adding an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide a second form of authentication, such as a code generated by a mobile app, in addition to their password.

    These security features help protect the files and data stored on the NAS, ensuring that only authorized users have access to the appropriate resources.

  • How does the NAS LaCie 2big RAID ensure data protection and prevent unauthorized access to files stored on the device?

    The NAS LaCie 2big RAID provides several features to ensure data protection and prevent unauthorized access to files stored on the device.

    1. RAID Configuration: The device supports RAID 1 configuration, which means that data is mirrored across two drives. This redundancy ensures that even if one drive fails, the data is still protected and accessible from the other drive.
    2. User Access Control: The device allows you to set up user accounts and assign specific access permissions to each user. This ensures that only authorized individuals can access the files and folders stored on the device.
    3. Password Protection: Each user account can be password protected, ensuring that only the authorized user can log in and access the files. Strong password policies can be enforced to enhance security.
    4. Encryption: The NAS LaCie 2big RAID supports hardware encryption, allowing you to encrypt the data stored on the drives. This ensures that even if someone gains physical access to the drives, they cannot access the data without the encryption key.
    5. Firewall and Network Security: The device supports firewall settings and network security protocols such as SSL/TLS encryption, ensuring that unauthorized access attempts are prevented at the network level.
    6. Automatic Backup: The device provides options for automatic backup to external drives or cloud storage, ensuring that data is regularly backed up and protected from accidental deletion or hardware failure.

    Overall, the NAS LaCie 2big RAID combines hardware redundancy, user access control, encryption, and network security features to ensure data protection and prevent unauthorized access to files stored on the device.

  • Can you explain the process of setting up file access permissions and user authentication on the NAS LaCie 2big RAID models mentioned?

    To set up file access permissions and user authentication on the LaCie 2big RAID models, you can follow these steps:

    1. Connect the NAS device (LaCie 2big RAID) to your network using an Ethernet cable.
    2. Power on the NAS and wait for it to boot up.
    3. Open a web browser on a computer connected to the same network and enter the IP address of the NAS in the address bar. (You can find the IP address of the NAS using the NAS administration software or by checking your router's connected devices list.)
    4. Log in to the NAS administration interface using the default username and password provided in the device's documentation or on the device itself.
    5. Once logged in, navigate to the "File Access" or "Shared Folders" section of the administration interface.
    6. Create a new shared folder or select an existing one to configure access permissions.
    7. In the shared folder settings, you should find options to set access permissions for different users or user groups. You can typically choose between read-only, read-write, or no access.
    8. Create or manage user accounts in the "User" or "User Management" section of the administration interface. Assign appropriate access permissions to each user.
    9. Some NAS devices also support user authentication methods like LDAP, Active Directory, or local authentication. You can configure these options in the "Authentication" or "User Authentication" section of the administration interface.
    10. Once you have set up the file access permissions and user authentication, save the changes and exit the administration interface.

    By following these steps, you should be able to configure file access permissions and user authentication on the LaCie 2big RAID NAS models.