Tips for Recovering Deleted Files from NAS Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server

Has your NAS Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server 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?

Tips for Recovering Deleted Files from NAS Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server

Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server 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 ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

Tips for Recovering Deleted Files from NAS Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server

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 Lenovo 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 remote access to NAS Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server devices pose additional data loss risks?

Remote access to NAS Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server devices can pose additional data loss risks if proper security measures are not in place. Here are some potential risks:

  1. Unauthorized access: If remote access is not properly secured with strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and encryption, there is a risk of unauthorized individuals gaining access to the NAS device. This can lead to data loss or theft.
  2. Malware and hacking: Remote access can provide an entry point for malware or hacking attempts. Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in the remote access software or use brute force attacks to gain control of the NAS device. Once compromised, data can be deleted, encrypted, or stolen.
  3. Human error: Remote access increases the chances of human error, such as accidental deletion or misconfiguration of settings. If data is not properly backed up or protected, these errors can lead to permanent data loss.
  4. Network vulnerabilities: Remote access relies on network connections, which can introduce vulnerabilities. If the network is not properly secured, attackers can intercept or manipulate data during transmission, leading to data loss or corruption.

To mitigate these risks, it is important to implement strong security practices:

  1. Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication for remote access.
  2. Keep the NAS device and remote access software up to date with the latest security patches.
  3. Implement encryption for remote access connections to protect data in transit.
  4. Restrict remote access to trusted IP addresses or use VPNs to create secure connections.
  5. Regularly back up data to an off-site location to minimize the impact of data loss.
  6. Train employees on best practices for remote access and data security to minimize human errors.

By implementing these security measures, the risks associated with remote access to NAS Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server devices can be significantly reduced.

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

Although the NAS ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server 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 Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server. 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 Lenovo

How to recover data from a Lenovo

ThinkSystem SR645 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;

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 Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 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.

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 ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Merle Cleese
    Merle Cleese 22.08.2023 08:46 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server device be done if the disks have been reformatted?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 22.08.2023 10:00 #

      Data recovery from a NAS Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server device can be challenging if the disks have been reformatted. Reformatting erases the file system and directory structure, making it difficult to recover data using conventional methods. However, it may still be possible to recover the data using specialized data recovery software or by seeking professional data recovery services.

      The success of data recovery depends on various factors such as the extent of the reformatting, the type of file system used, and the actions taken after reformatting. If the disks have been completely overwritten with new data, the chances of recovering the original data become significantly lower.

      It is recommended to immediately stop using the NAS device and seek professional assistance from a data recovery specialist who has experience in dealing with NAS systems. They can assess the situation, determine the feasibility of data recovery, and provide appropriate solutions.

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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 technologies that the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server offers to ensure file access security?

    The Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server offers several key features and technologies to ensure file access security. These include:

    1. Trusted Platform Module (TPM): The server comes with an integrated TPM, which provides hardware-based cryptographic functions to secure sensitive data and ensure the integrity of the system.
    2. Secure Boot: The server supports Secure Boot, which ensures that only authorized and digitally signed firmware and operating system software can be executed during the boot process, protecting against unauthorized modifications.
    3. RAID Support: The server supports various RAID configurations, including hardware RAID controllers, which provide data redundancy and protection against disk failures.
    4. User Access Control: The server offers user access control mechanisms, allowing administrators to define user roles and permissions, ensuring that only authorized users have access to specific files and resources.
    5. Data Encryption: The server supports data encryption technologies such as self-encrypting drives (SEDs) and software-based encryption, which can be used to encrypt data at rest and during transmission, providing an additional layer of security.
    6. Network Security: The server includes features like firewall protection, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and virtual private network (VPN) support, which help secure network connections and prevent unauthorized access.
    7. Secure Remote Management: The server supports secure remote management protocols like IPMI (Intelligent Platform Management Interface) over HTTPS, ensuring secure remote access for server administration and monitoring.
    8. Firmware and Software Updates: Lenovo regularly releases firmware and software updates for the ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server, which include security patches and bug fixes to address any vulnerabilities or weaknesses.

    Overall, these features and technologies help ensure file access security by providing encryption, user access control, secure boot, network security, and secure remote management capabilities.

  • How does the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server implement authentication and authorization mechanisms to protect file access?

    The Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server implements authentication and authorization mechanisms through various features and technologies to protect file access. Some of these mechanisms include:

    1. User Authentication: The server supports user authentication through various methods such as local user accounts, Active Directory integration, LDAP, and RADIUS. These authentication mechanisms ensure that only authorized users can access the server and its files.
    2. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): The server supports RBAC, which allows administrators to define roles and assign specific permissions to each role. This ensures that users can only access files and perform actions that are authorized for their assigned role.
    3. Access Control Lists (ACLs): ACLs are used to control file access at a granular level. Administrators can define specific permissions for individual users or groups, allowing or denying access to specific files or directories.
    4. Encryption: The server supports data encryption at rest and in transit. This ensures that files stored on the server's storage devices are protected from unauthorized access. Encryption protocols such as SSL/TLS can be used to secure data transmission over the network.
    5. Secure File Transfer Protocols: The server supports secure file transfer protocols such as SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) and FTPS (FTP over SSL/TLS), which provide encrypted and authenticated file transfer capabilities.
    6. Audit Logging: The server can generate audit logs that record user access and file operations. These logs can be used for monitoring and investigating any unauthorized access attempts or suspicious activities.
    7. Firewall and Network Security: The server can be configured with firewalls and other network security measures to protect against unauthorized access from external sources.

    Overall, these authentication and authorization mechanisms implemented in the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server help ensure that file access is protected and restricted to authorized users, reducing the risk of unauthorized data access or leakage.

  • Can you explain the role of encryption in the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server's file access security and how it helps safeguard sensitive data?

    Encryption plays a crucial role in the file access security of the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server by safeguarding sensitive data. The server utilizes encryption algorithms to convert the data into an unreadable format, known as ciphertext, which can only be decrypted with the appropriate encryption key.

    The ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server offers various encryption capabilities that contribute to data protection. These include:

    1. Data-at-Rest Encryption: The server supports self-encrypting drives (SEDs) that encrypt data stored on the hard drives or solid-state drives (SSDs) within the server. SEDs automatically encrypt data as it is written to the drives and decrypt it when it is read, providing constant protection against unauthorized access to stored data.
    2. Data-in-Transit Encryption: The server supports secure network protocols, such as Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS), to encrypt data as it travels over the network. This prevents potential eavesdropping or interception of data during transmission.
    3. Secure Remote Management: The server includes secure management interfaces, such as Integrated Management Module (IMM) or Baseboard Management Controller (BMC), which can be accessed remotely. These interfaces utilize encryption to ensure that sensitive management data, such as login credentials and configuration settings, are protected during remote access.

    By employing encryption, the ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server helps safeguard sensitive data in multiple ways:

    1. Confidentiality: Encryption ensures that only authorized individuals with the encryption key can access and decipher the encrypted data. This protects against unauthorized access or data breaches, even if physical storage devices are stolen or compromised.
    2. Integrity: Encryption algorithms often include integrity checks, such as message authentication codes (MACs), to verify the integrity of the data. This ensures that the data remains unaltered during transit or storage, as any modifications to the encrypted data would result in an invalid decryption.
    3. Compliance: Encryption is often a requirement for compliance with various industry and government regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The server's encryption capabilities assist organizations in meeting these regulatory requirements by securing sensitive data.

    Overall, encryption in the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR645 Rack Server plays a vital role in protecting sensitive data by ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and compliance. It helps mitigate the risks associated with unauthorized access, data breaches, and tampering, thereby enhancing file access security.