Steps to Extract Data from a RAID Disk if NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 Doesn’t Power On

Has your NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 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?

Steps to Extract Data from a RAID Disk if NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 Doesn’t Power On
Data Recovery Tool

Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 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 RN4220. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

Steps to Extract Data from a RAID Disk if NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 Doesn’t Power On

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.

Is there a risk of data loss if a NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 device is physically damaged or stolen?

Yes, there is a risk of data loss if a NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 device is physically damaged or stolen. If the device is physically damaged, it may become inoperable and the data stored on it may become inaccessible. Similarly, if the device is stolen, the data stored on it can be lost or compromised. It is important to have proper backup measures in place to mitigate the risk of data loss in such situations.

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

Although the NAS ReadyNAS RN4220 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 Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220. 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 Netgear

How to recover data from a Netgear

ReadyNAS RN4220 has 12 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 0;
  • X-RAID;
  • RAID 1;
  • RAID 5;
  • RAID 6;
  • RAID 50;
  • RAID 60;
  • 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:

  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 Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 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
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 9.08.2022 12:31 #
    If you want to ask a question about data recovery, from NAS ReadyNAS RN4220, feel free to leave a comment!
    Reply
  • Hugh Ayles
    Hugh Ayles 11.09.2023 03:41 #
    Is it possible to recover data from a logically damaged NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 device?
    Reply
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 11.09.2023 04:59 #

      Yes, it is possible to recover data from a logically damaged NAS Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 device. However, the success of data recovery depends on the extent of the damage and the specific circumstances of the situation.

      Here are a few steps you can take to attempt data recovery from a logically damaged NAS device:

      1. Check for physical damage: Ensure that the device itself is not physically damaged, such as a faulty power supply or damaged hard drives. If there is physical damage, it may be necessary to repair or replace the affected components before attempting data recovery.
      2. Connect the drives to a different system: If the NAS device is not functioning properly, you can remove the hard drives and connect them to a different computer or NAS device. This allows you to access the drives directly and attempt data recovery using specialized software or services.
      3. Use data recovery software: There are various data recovery software options available that can help recover data from logically damaged drives. These tools scan the drives for recoverable files and allow you to retrieve them. Some popular options include Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and R-Studio.
      4. Seek professional help: If the data recovery process seems complex or the logical damage is severe, it is advisable to seek professional data recovery services. These experts have specialized tools and techniques to recover data from damaged devices and can maximize the chances of successful recovery.

      Remember, it is crucial to avoid further damage to the drives by not attempting any DIY repairs or using unreliable data recovery software. It is always recommended to consult with professionals who have experience in dealing with data recovery from NAS devices.

      Reply
Post comment
User
Leave a reply(Hugh Ayles).Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Updated:
  • Evaluations:
  • 6
  • /
  • :
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.

Share

Questions and answers

  • How do I connect my digital camera to the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 to transfer and save photos?

    To connect your digital camera to the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 for transferring and saving photos, you can follow these steps:

    1. Ensure that your Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 is properly set up and connected to your network.
    2. Check if your digital camera has a USB port or supports Wi-Fi connectivity. The method of connection may vary depending on the camera model.
    3. USB Connection:

    a. Connect one end of a USB cable to the USB port on your digital camera.

    b. Connect the other end of the USB cable to an available USB port on the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220.

    Wi-Fi Connection:

    a. On your digital camera, navigate to the settings or Wi-Fi menu.

    b. Enable the Wi-Fi functionality and connect it to your home or office network.

    c. Ensure that your Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 is connected to the same network.

    1. Once the camera is connected to the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220, it should be recognized as an external storage device. Some cameras may require you to select a specific mode, such as "Mass Storage" or "PTP" (Picture Transfer Protocol), to enable file transfer.
    2. On your camera, select the photos you want to transfer to the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220. The process may vary depending on your camera's interface.
    3. Initiate the transfer process either through the camera's menu or by dragging and dropping the files from the camera to the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 folder on your computer.
    4. Monitor the transfer progress to ensure all the photos are successfully copied to the ReadyNAS.
    5. Once the transfer is complete, you can access and manage your photos through the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 interface or by connecting to it from a computer on the same network.

    Note: The specific steps may vary depending on the camera model and the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 configuration. It is recommended to refer to the user manuals of your camera and the ReadyNAS for detailed instructions tailored to your specific devices.

  • What steps should I follow to set up the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 as a centralized storage solution for my digital camera photos?

    To set up the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 as a centralized storage solution for your digital camera photos, follow these steps:

    1. Unbox the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 and connect it to your network using an Ethernet cable.
    2. Power on the ReadyNAS by connecting it to a power source.
    3. Install the ReadyNAS software on your computer by inserting the installation CD or downloading it from the Netgear website.
    4. Launch the ReadyNAS software and follow the on-screen instructions to set up the initial configuration.
    5. Choose a RAID level for your storage. RAID 1 or RAID 5 is recommended for data redundancy and protection.
    6. Create a new volume on the ReadyNAS, specifying the desired size and settings.
    7. Set up user accounts and permissions to control access to the storage. Create a dedicated account for your digital camera photos.
    8. Connect your digital camera to your computer using a USB cable or use a memory card reader to transfer the photos to your computer.
    9. Copy the digital camera photos to the ReadyNAS by accessing it through the network. You can use the ReadyNAS software or map the network drive to your computer's file explorer.
    10. Organize the photos into folders on the ReadyNAS for easy management and retrieval.
    11. Set up automatic backup or synchronization from your digital camera to the ReadyNAS using software or tools provided by the camera manufacturer, if available.
    12. Enable media server features on the ReadyNAS to stream and access your photos on other devices like smart TVs or mobile devices.
    13. Periodically back up the ReadyNAS to an external storage device or cloud storage service to ensure data protection.
    14. Regularly update the firmware of the ReadyNAS to benefit from new features and security enhancements.

    By following these steps, you can effectively set up the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 as a centralized storage solution for your digital camera photos.

  • Can I access and view my saved photos on the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 remotely, and if so, what are the necessary configurations and steps to do so?

    Yes, you can access and view your saved photos on the Netgear ReadyNAS RN4220 remotely. To do so, you need to configure the following settings:

    1. Enable Remote Access: Log in to your ReadyNAS admin interface and go to the "Settings" tab. Under "Remote Access," enable the "ReadyCLOUD" option.
    2. Create a ReadyCLOUD Account: If you don't have a ReadyCLOUD account, click on the "Create Account" button and follow the instructions to set up an account.
    3. Configure Remote Access Permissions: Under "Remote Access," click on "Permission Settings." Ensure that the user account you want to access the photos with has the appropriate permissions to access the shared folders containing the photos.
    4. Set Up Port Forwarding: If you have a router/firewall, you need to configure port forwarding to allow remote access to your ReadyNAS. By default, the ReadyNAS uses port 443 for HTTPS access. Consult your router's manual or manufacturer's website for instructions on how to set up port forwarding.

    Once you have completed the configuration steps, follow these steps to access and view your saved photos remotely:

    1. Open a web browser on any device (PC, Mac, smartphone, etc.) and go to the ReadyCLOUD website (https://readycloud.netgear.com).
    2. Log in using your ReadyCLOUD account credentials.
    3. After logging in, you should see a list of ReadyNAS devices associated with your account. Click on the RN4220 to access its files.
    4. Navigate to the folder where your photos are stored and click on the desired photo to view it.

    Note: Make sure your ReadyNAS is powered on and connected to the internet for remote access to work. Additionally, ensure that your network and router/firewall configurations allow access to the ReadyNAS from outside your local network.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Description