How does the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 function as a VPN server, and what are its key features and capabilities in this regard?

The Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 is a network-attached storage (NAS) device that can also function as a VPN server. Here are its key features and capabilities in this regard:VPN Server Functionality: The ReadyNAS RN3138 supports VPN server functionality, allowing remote users to securely connect to the NAS and access its resources over the internet.VPN Protocols: It supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and L2TP/IPSec. These protocols ensure secure and encrypted communication between the remote user and the NAS.Secure Remote Access: With the VPN server enabled, users can establish a secure connection to the NAS from anywhere in the world. This is particularly useful for accessing files, documents, and other resources stored on the NAS remotely.User Authentication: The ReadyNAS RN3138 supports various user authentication methods for VPN access, such as username and password, certificate-based authentication, and two-factor authentication. This ensures that only authorized users can establish a VPN connection.Data Encryption: The VPN server on the ReadyNAS RN3138 encrypts all data transmitted between the remote user and the NAS, providing an additional layer of security. This prevents unauthorized access or eavesdropping on the data being transmitted.Firewall Integration: The NAS integrates with the built-in firewall functionality, allowing administrators to define access rules and restrict VPN access to specific IP addresses or networks. This enhances network security by controlling VPN traffic.Scalability: The ReadyNAS RN3138 can handle multiple VPN connections simultaneously, making it suitable for small to medium-sized businesses or remote work environments where multiple users need secure access to the NAS.Easy Configuration: Netgear provides an intuitive web-based interface for configuring the VPN server on the ReadyNAS RN3138. Administrators can easily set up and manage VPN connections, user accounts, and security settings.Overall, the ReadyNAS RN3138 offers robust VPN server capabilities, enabling secure remote access to the NAS and its resources.

What are the steps involved in setting up the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 as a VPN server, and what are the recommended configurations for optimal performance?

Setting up the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 as a VPN server involves the following steps:Connect the ReadyNAS to your network and power it on.Access the ReadyNAS web interface by entering its IP address in a web browser.Log in to the web interface using the admin credentials.Navigate to the 'Settings' or 'Network' section of the web interface.Enable the VPN server feature and select the type of VPN protocol you want to use (e.g., OpenVPN, PPTP, etc.).Configure the VPN settings, such as the IP address range for the VPN clients, DNS settings, and authentication method.Set up port forwarding on your router to allow incoming VPN connections to reach the ReadyNAS.Save the VPN server settings and apply the changes.To optimize the performance of the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 as a VPN server, consider the following recommended configurations:Use OpenVPN protocol: OpenVPN is known for its security and flexibility, making it a recommended choice for VPN servers.Enable hardware acceleration: The ReadyNAS RN3138 supports hardware acceleration for VPN encryption. Enable this feature in the VPN server settings to offload the encryption workload to the hardware, improving performance.Use strong encryption: Choose a strong encryption algorithm, such as AES-256, to ensure secure communication between the VPN clients and the server. However, keep in mind that stronger encryption may impact performance, so find a balance between security and speed.Optimize network settings: Ensure that the ReadyNAS is connected to a high-speed network with sufficient bandwidth to handle VPN traffic. Avoid network congestion and prioritize VPN traffic if possible.Configure client settings: Provide clear instructions to VPN clients on how to connect to the ReadyNAS VPN server, including the necessary VPN client software and authentication details.Regularly update firmware: Keep the ReadyNAS firmware up to date to benefit from bug fixes, security patches, and performance improvements.It is recommended to consult the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 user manual or Netgear support resources for detailed instructions specific to your device and firmware version.

What are the advantages and potential limitations of using the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 as a VPN server, and how does it compare to other VPN server solutions in terms of security, ease of use, and overall performance?

The Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 offers several advantages as a VPN server:Security: The ReadyNAS RN3138 provides secure remote access to your network, encrypting data transmission and ensuring privacy. It supports various VPN protocols like OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, and PPTP, allowing you to choose the most secure option.Scalability: The RN3138 is designed to handle multiple concurrent VPN connections, making it suitable for small to medium-sized businesses or homes with multiple users needing remote access.Storage and Backup: As a NAS device, the RN3138 offers ample storage capacity for storing and backing up your data. It integrates well with Netgear's backup and recovery software, ensuring data protection.Ease of Use: The ReadyNAS OS provides an intuitive web-based interface, making it easy to set up and manage the VPN server. It offers features like user management, traffic monitoring, and logging for troubleshooting.However, there are also potential limitations to consider:Performance: The RN3138's VPN performance may be affected by factors such as the number of concurrent connections and the encryption protocol used. While it can handle multiple connections, the overall performance may decrease as the number of users increases.Limited VPN Protocols: The RN3138 supports popular VPN protocols like OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, and PPTP. However, it may not support more advanced protocols like WireGuard, which offer enhanced security and performance.Comparing the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 to other VPN server solutions:Security: The ReadyNAS RN3138 provides a secure VPN solution with support for multiple protocols. However, dedicated VPN server solutions may offer more advanced security features and protocols.Ease of Use: The ReadyNAS RN3138 offers a user-friendly interface for managing the VPN server. Dedicated VPN server solutions may have more advanced management features but could be more complex to set up.Overall Performance: The RN3138's performance as a VPN server can vary depending on factors like hardware specifications and the number of concurrent connections. Dedicated VPN server solutions may offer better performance and scalability options.In conclusion, the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 is a viable VPN server solution with its security features, scalability, and ease of use. However, for organizations or individuals with specific security requirements or high-performance needs, dedicated VPN server solutions may be worth considering.

How to Extract Data from a RAID Disk When NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 is Not Booting Up

Name: How to recover data from a Netgear
Uploaded: 2025-10-16T08:53:56+03:00
Description: How to recover data from a Netgear

Has your NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 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 Extract Data from a RAID Disk When NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 is Not Booting Up

Data Recovery Tool

Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 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 ReadyNAS RN3138. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

Contents

Why Regular Data Recovery Tools Can’t Restore Files from RAID
Key Information About the NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138
How to Remove Hard Disks from Your NAS and Connect Them to a PC

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 Netgear 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.

What are the risks of data loss due to firmware or software malfunctions in NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 devices?

There are several risks of data loss due to firmware or software malfunctions in NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 devices. Some of the key risks include:

Corrupted or inaccessible data: Firmware or software malfunctions can lead to data corruption or make the data inaccessible. This can result in the loss of important files, documents, or other critical data stored on the NAS device.
System instability: Malfunctions in the firmware or software can cause system instability, leading to frequent crashes or freezes. This can disrupt the normal functioning of the NAS device and potentially result in data loss.
Failed backups: NAS devices are often used for data backup purposes. If the firmware or software malfunctions, it can affect the backup process, leading to failed or incomplete backups. This can be particularly problematic if the primary data source becomes corrupted or lost.
Data integrity issues: Firmware or software malfunctions can compromise the integrity of the stored data. This means that the data may become altered, modified, or even deleted unintentionally. Such issues can lead to data loss or inaccurate information.
Limited recovery options: In case of firmware or software malfunctions, the recovery options may be limited or difficult to execute. This can make it challenging to restore the data or recover from the malfunction, potentially resulting in permanent data loss.
Vulnerabilities to cyber threats: Malfunctions in firmware or software can create vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals. This can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, or even ransomware attacks, resulting in data loss or theft.

To mitigate these risks, it is important to regularly update the firmware and software of the NAS device, maintain proper backups, implement security measures like firewalls and strong passwords, and monitor the device for any signs of malfunction.

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

Although the NAS ReadyNAS RN3138 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:

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.
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.
Label each hard disk according to its position inside the NAS. The order of the drives is crucial for correct RAID reconstruction.
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.

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How to Order Remote Data Recovery

Step-by-Step Data Recovery with Hetman RAID Recovery

This program restores data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138. 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.

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How to recover data from a Netgear

ReadyNAS RN3138 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;

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:

Ensure you have enough free space to store the image. Its size will typically match the size of the original disk.
In the main window, select the target disk and choose Tools - Save Disk. You can also select multiple disks if needed.
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.
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.

Where Are the User’s Files Actually Stored?

The Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 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.

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 9.08.2022 12:31 #

If you want to ask a question about data recovery, from NAS ReadyNAS RN3138, feel free to leave a comment!

Reply
Conor Legge-Bourke 11.09.2023 08:58 #

Can data recovery from a NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 device be done if the device is not responding or freezing frequently?

Reply
- Hetman Software 11.09.2023 10:02 #
  Yes, data recovery from a NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 device can still be possible even if the device is not responding or freezing frequently. However, it may require specialized data recovery services or software tools.
  Here are a few steps you can try to recover data from a non-responsive or freezing NAS device:
  Restart the NAS: Try restarting the device to see if it resolves the issue temporarily.
  Check network connectivity: Ensure that the NAS is properly connected to the network and there are no network issues causing the freezing or unresponsiveness.
  Update firmware: Make sure that the NAS device's firmware is up to date. Check the manufacturer's website for any available firmware updates and install them if necessary.
  Try a different network cable or port: Faulty network cables or ports can cause connectivity issues. Test with a different cable or connect the NAS to a different port on your router or switch.
  Connect directly to a computer: If possible, connect the NAS directly to a computer using an Ethernet cable. This can help determine if the freezing issue is related to the network or the NAS itself.
  Seek professional help: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, it is recommended to consult with professional data recovery services. They have specialized tools and expertise to recover data from non-responsive or failing NAS devices.
  Remember to always have regular backups of your important data to avoid data loss situations.
  Reply

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Updated:
16.10.2025 8:53

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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.

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.

Questions and answers

How does the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 function as a VPN server, and what are its key features and capabilities in this regard?
The Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 is a network-attached storage (NAS) device that can also function as a VPN server. Here are its key features and capabilities in this regard:
1. VPN Server Functionality: The ReadyNAS RN3138 supports VPN server functionality, allowing remote users to securely connect to the NAS and access its resources over the internet.
2. VPN Protocols: It supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and L2TP/IPSec. These protocols ensure secure and encrypted communication between the remote user and the NAS.
3. Secure Remote Access: With the VPN server enabled, users can establish a secure connection to the NAS from anywhere in the world. This is particularly useful for accessing files, documents, and other resources stored on the NAS remotely.
4. User Authentication: The ReadyNAS RN3138 supports various user authentication methods for VPN access, such as username and password, certificate-based authentication, and two-factor authentication. This ensures that only authorized users can establish a VPN connection.
5. Data Encryption: The VPN server on the ReadyNAS RN3138 encrypts all data transmitted between the remote user and the NAS, providing an additional layer of security. This prevents unauthorized access or eavesdropping on the data being transmitted.
6. Firewall Integration: The NAS integrates with the built-in firewall functionality, allowing administrators to define access rules and restrict VPN access to specific IP addresses or networks. This enhances network security by controlling VPN traffic.
7. Scalability: The ReadyNAS RN3138 can handle multiple VPN connections simultaneously, making it suitable for small to medium-sized businesses or remote work environments where multiple users need secure access to the NAS.
8. Easy Configuration: Netgear provides an intuitive web-based interface for configuring the VPN server on the ReadyNAS RN3138. Administrators can easily set up and manage VPN connections, user accounts, and security settings.
Overall, the ReadyNAS RN3138 offers robust VPN server capabilities, enabling secure remote access to the NAS and its resources.
What are the steps involved in setting up the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 as a VPN server, and what are the recommended configurations for optimal performance?
Setting up the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 as a VPN server involves the following steps:
1. Connect the ReadyNAS to your network and power it on.
2. Access the ReadyNAS web interface by entering its IP address in a web browser.
3. Log in to the web interface using the admin credentials.
4. Navigate to the "Settings" or "Network" section of the web interface.
5. Enable the VPN server feature and select the type of VPN protocol you want to use (e.g., OpenVPN, PPTP, etc.).
6. Configure the VPN settings, such as the IP address range for the VPN clients, DNS settings, and authentication method.
7. Set up port forwarding on your router to allow incoming VPN connections to reach the ReadyNAS.
8. Save the VPN server settings and apply the changes.
To optimize the performance of the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 as a VPN server, consider the following recommended configurations:
1. Use OpenVPN protocol: OpenVPN is known for its security and flexibility, making it a recommended choice for VPN servers.
2. Enable hardware acceleration: The ReadyNAS RN3138 supports hardware acceleration for VPN encryption. Enable this feature in the VPN server settings to offload the encryption workload to the hardware, improving performance.
3. Use strong encryption: Choose a strong encryption algorithm, such as AES-256, to ensure secure communication between the VPN clients and the server. However, keep in mind that stronger encryption may impact performance, so find a balance between security and speed.
4. Optimize network settings: Ensure that the ReadyNAS is connected to a high-speed network with sufficient bandwidth to handle VPN traffic. Avoid network congestion and prioritize VPN traffic if possible.
5. Configure client settings: Provide clear instructions to VPN clients on how to connect to the ReadyNAS VPN server, including the necessary VPN client software and authentication details.
6. Regularly update firmware: Keep the ReadyNAS firmware up to date to benefit from bug fixes, security patches, and performance improvements.
It is recommended to consult the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 user manual or Netgear support resources for detailed instructions specific to your device and firmware version.
What are the advantages and potential limitations of using the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 as a VPN server, and how does it compare to other VPN server solutions in terms of security, ease of use, and overall performance?
The Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 offers several advantages as a VPN server:
1. Security: The ReadyNAS RN3138 provides secure remote access to your network, encrypting data transmission and ensuring privacy. It supports various VPN protocols like OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, and PPTP, allowing you to choose the most secure option.
2. Scalability: The RN3138 is designed to handle multiple concurrent VPN connections, making it suitable for small to medium-sized businesses or homes with multiple users needing remote access.
3. Storage and Backup: As a NAS device, the RN3138 offers ample storage capacity for storing and backing up your data. It integrates well with Netgear's backup and recovery software, ensuring data protection.
4. Ease of Use: The ReadyNAS OS provides an intuitive web-based interface, making it easy to set up and manage the VPN server. It offers features like user management, traffic monitoring, and logging for troubleshooting.
However, there are also potential limitations to consider:
1. Performance: The RN3138's VPN performance may be affected by factors such as the number of concurrent connections and the encryption protocol used. While it can handle multiple connections, the overall performance may decrease as the number of users increases.
2. Limited VPN Protocols: The RN3138 supports popular VPN protocols like OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, and PPTP. However, it may not support more advanced protocols like WireGuard, which offer enhanced security and performance.
Comparing the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 to other VPN server solutions:
1. Security: The ReadyNAS RN3138 provides a secure VPN solution with support for multiple protocols. However, dedicated VPN server solutions may offer more advanced security features and protocols.
2. Ease of Use: The ReadyNAS RN3138 offers a user-friendly interface for managing the VPN server. Dedicated VPN server solutions may have more advanced management features but could be more complex to set up.
3. Overall Performance: The RN3138's performance as a VPN server can vary depending on factors like hardware specifications and the number of concurrent connections. Dedicated VPN server solutions may offer better performance and scalability options.
In conclusion, the Netgear ReadyNAS RN3138 is a viable VPN server solution with its security features, scalability, and ease of use. However, for organizations or individuals with specific security requirements or high-performance needs, dedicated VPN server solutions may be worth considering.