- Why can’t ordinary software tools restore files from RAID?
- How to take hard disks out of the NAS and connect them to a PC?
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 Lenovo also introduce some modifications to this process, and that is why data can be written to hard disk in a wide variety of ways.
Are there any recommended practices for protecting NAS Lenovo ThinkSystem SR630 V2 Rack Server devices against physical theft or unauthorized access that can lead to data loss?
Yes, there are several recommended practices for protecting NAS Lenovo ThinkSystem SR630 V2 Rack Server devices against physical theft or unauthorized access. Here are some of them:
- Physical Security: Ensure that the server is installed in a secure location, such as a locked server room or cabinet, to prevent unauthorized access.
- Access Control: Implement strict access controls to limit physical access to the server. Only authorized personnel should be allowed to enter the server room or cabinet.
- Locking Mechanisms: Use physical locking mechanisms, such as locks on server cabinets or racks, to prevent unauthorized removal of the server.
- Surveillance: Install CCTV cameras in the server room or cabinet to monitor and record any unauthorized access attempts.
- Alarm Systems: Implement an alarm system that can detect any unauthorized access or tampering with the server. This can include motion sensors, door sensors, or vibration sensors.
- Asset Tracking: Keep a record of the server's serial number and other identifying information. This can help in tracking the server in case of theft.
- Secure Rack Mounting: Ensure that the server is securely mounted in the rack using proper mounting brackets and screws to prevent easy removal.
- BIOS and Firmware Security: Regularly update the server's BIOS and firmware to the latest versions. This helps in patching any security vulnerabilities and ensures the server is protected against known threats.
- Encryption: Enable disk-level encryption on the server to protect the data stored on the drives. This ensures that even if the server is stolen, the data remains encrypted and inaccessible.
- Employee Education: Train employees on the importance of physical security and the procedures to follow to prevent unauthorized access or theft.
By implementing these recommended practices, you can significantly enhance the physical security of your Lenovo ThinkSystem SR630 V2 Rack Server and protect it against theft or unauthorized access that could lead to data loss.
How to take hard disks out of the NAS and connect them to a PC?
Although NAS ThinkSystem SR630 V2 Rack Server 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:
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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.
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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.
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Make sure to mark each hard disk in accordance with how they were installed inside the NAS.
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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.
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Restoring data with Hetman RAID Recovery
This program recovers data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Lenovo ThinkSystem SR630 V2 Rack Server. 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.
ThinkSystem SR630 V2 Rack Server has 12 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:
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Make sure that you have enough free space to save the image. The image file size usually equals the disk size.
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Select the disk in the main window, and choose from the menu Tools – Save Disk. You can select multiple disks to be saved.
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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.
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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.
Where are user’s files stored?
The Lenovo ThinkSystem SR630 V2 Rack Server network-attached storage keeps LifeLine 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 |
Data recovery from a NAS device can be challenging, especially if there are signs of hardware failure. However, it is not impossible. Here are a few steps you can take to attempt data recovery from a Lenovo ThinkSystem SR630 V2 Rack Server:
Remember, data recovery from a NAS device with hardware failure is a complex task and success cannot be guaranteed. It is always recommended to consult with professionals who specialize in data recovery to maximize your chances of successful recovery.