How to Extract Data from a RAID Disk When NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN204 is Unresponsive

When the ⭐ NAS fails to start, extract data from RAID disks by connecting them to a PC, configuring RAID settings, and using recovery software for file retrieval.

How to Extract Data from a RAID Disk When NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN204 is Unresponsive

Netgear ReadyNAS RN204 NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from ReadyNAS RN204.

How to Extract Data from a RAID Disk When NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN204 is Unresponsive

RAID Recovery™ 2.6
Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.
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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 Netgear also introduce some modifications to this process, and that is why data can be written to hard disk in a wide variety of ways.

Can the use of specific backup and recovery strategies help reduce potential data loss risks on NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN204 devices?

Yes, the use of specific backup and recovery strategies can help reduce potential data loss risks on NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN204 devices. Here are a few strategies that can be employed:

  1. Regular Data Backups: Implement a regular backup schedule to ensure that important data is backed up frequently. This can be done using built-in backup features provided by the ReadyNAS device or by using third-party backup software.
  2. Offsite Data Replication: Replicating data to an offsite location or a cloud storage service can provide an additional layer of protection against data loss. In case of a disaster or hardware failure, having a copy of the data stored offsite ensures its availability.
  3. RAID Configuration: Configure the ReadyNAS device with a suitable RAID level to provide redundancy and protect against drive failures. RAID configurations like RAID 1 or RAID 5 can help maintain data integrity even if one or more drives fail.
  4. Snapshot Technology: Utilize the snapshot feature available on the ReadyNAS device. Snapshots capture the state of the data at a specific point in time, allowing you to roll back to a previous version of the data in case of accidental deletion or corruption.
  5. Testing and Monitoring: Regularly test the backup and recovery processes to ensure they are functioning correctly. Monitor the status of the backups and verify that data can be successfully restored when needed.

By implementing these backup and recovery strategies, the risk of data loss on NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN204 devices can be significantly reduced.

How to take hard disks out of the NAS and connect them to a PC?

Although NAS ReadyNAS RN204 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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. Make sure to mark each hard disk in accordance with how they were installed inside the NAS.

  4. 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.

    Go to view
    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

Restoring data with Hetman RAID Recovery

Hetman Raid Recovery

This program recovers data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Netgear ReadyNAS RN204. 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.

Go to view
How to recover data from a Netgear

How to recover data from a Netgear

ReadyNAS RN204 has 4 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 0;
  • X-RAID;
  • RAID 1;
  • RAID 5;
  • RAID 6;
  • JBOD;

NAS supports:

  • Ext2;
  • Ext3;
  • Ext4;
  • Btrfs;

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:

  1. Make sure that you have enough free space to save the image. The image file size usually equals the disk size.

  2. Select the disk in the main window, and choose from the menu ToolsSave Disk. You can select multiple disks to be saved.

  3. 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.

    Hetman Raid Recovery: Image Creation Wizard
  4. 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.

    Hetman Raid Recovery: hoose any disk connected to this PC, or save the image by FTP

Where are user’s files stored?

The Netgear ReadyNAS RN204 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.

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

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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 ReadyNAS RN204, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Clint Northcott
    Clint Northcott 11.09.2023 07:58 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN204 device be done if the device is showing signs of network congestion or bandwidth issues?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 11.09.2023 07:59 #

      Yes, data recovery from a NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN204 device can still be possible even if the device is experiencing network congestion or bandwidth issues. However, the process may be slower and more challenging due to the limitations imposed by the network issues.

      In such cases, it is recommended to troubleshoot and resolve the network congestion or bandwidth problems first to ensure a stable and reliable connection. This can involve optimizing the network settings, upgrading network equipment, or resolving any issues with the network infrastructure.

      Once the network issues are resolved, data recovery can be attempted using various methods such as connecting the NAS directly to a computer via Ethernet, using data recovery software specifically designed for NAS devices, or seeking professional assistance from data recovery service providers who specialize in NAS recovery.

      It is important to note that data recovery from a NAS device 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

  • Can the Netgear ReadyNAS RN204 be connected to a Wi-Fi network for operation, or does it require a wired Ethernet connection?

    The Netgear ReadyNAS RN204 does not have built-in Wi-Fi capability. It requires a wired Ethernet connection to connect to a network for operation.

  • What Wi-Fi standards are supported by the Netgear ReadyNAS RN204, and what are the maximum data transfer speeds achievable with each standard?

    The Netgear ReadyNAS RN204 is a network-attached storage (NAS) device and does not have built-in Wi-Fi capabilities. It is designed to be connected to a router or switch using an Ethernet cable for network connectivity.

    However, if you are looking for the Wi-Fi standards supported by Netgear devices, it would depend on the wireless router or access point you connect to the ReadyNAS RN204. Netgear offers a range of routers that support various Wi-Fi standards, including:

    1. 802.11n: This is a common Wi-Fi standard that offers theoretical maximum speeds of up to 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz frequency band and up to 450 Mbps on the 5 GHz band.
    2. 802.11ac: This is the latest Wi-Fi standard and provides faster speeds compared to 802.11n. It operates on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands and offers theoretical maximum speeds ranging from 433 Mbps to several gigabits per second, depending on the router model and configuration.

    It's important to note that the maximum data transfer speeds achievable with these Wi-Fi standards are theoretical and may vary in real-world scenarios due to factors like distance, interference, and network congestion. For the best performance, a wired Ethernet connection is recommended when using a Netgear ReadyNAS RN204.

  • Are there any specific configuration or setup steps required to enable Wi-Fi functionality on the Netgear ReadyNAS RN204, or is it a plug-and-play feature?

    To enable Wi-Fi functionality on the Netgear ReadyNAS RN204, you need to follow specific configuration steps. The ReadyNAS RN204 does not have built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, so you will need to connect it to a Wi-Fi router or access point.

    Here are the steps to enable Wi-Fi functionality on the ReadyNAS RN204:

    1. Connect the ReadyNAS RN204 to your Wi-Fi router or access point using an Ethernet cable.
    2. Power on the ReadyNAS RN204 and wait for it to boot up.
    3. Access the ReadyNAS admin interface by opening a web browser and entering the IP address of the device (usually 192.168.0.100).
    4. Log in to the admin interface using your credentials.
    5. In the admin interface, go to the "Network" or "Settings" section.
    6. Look for the "Wireless" or "Wi-Fi" settings and click on it.
    7. Configure the Wi-Fi settings according to your network requirements. This will include entering the SSID (network name) and password for your Wi-Fi network.
    8. Save the settings and wait for the ReadyNAS to connect to the Wi-Fi network.
    9. Once connected, you can access the ReadyNAS RN204 wirelessly from devices on the same Wi-Fi network.

    It's important to note that the ReadyNAS RN204 does not have a built-in Wi-Fi adapter, so it needs to be connected to a Wi-Fi router or access point using an Ethernet cable. The configuration steps above are for connecting the ReadyNAS to an existing Wi-Fi network.

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