What is iSCSI and how does it work in the context of network storage?

iSCSI stands for Internet Small Computer System Interface. It is a protocol that allows the transmission of SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) commands over an IP network, typically Ethernet. In the context of network storage, iSCSI enables the use of IP networks to connect servers to storage devices, such as disk arrays or tape libraries. This allows for the creation of a storage area network (SAN), where multiple servers can access shared storage resources.When using iSCSI, the storage device acts as an iSCSI target, while the server or client accessing the storage acts as an iSCSI initiator. The initiator sends SCSI commands encapsulated in IP packets to the target, which then processes these commands and performs the requested storage operations.To establish a connection, the initiator and target negotiate parameters such as authentication, security, and data transfer settings. Once the connection is established, the initiator can perform various storage operations, including reading and writing data, creating or deleting volumes, and managing storage resources.iSCSI offers several advantages for network storage. It allows for the consolidation of storage resources, simplifying management and reducing costs. It leverages existing IP networks, eliminating the need for dedicated storage networks. iSCSI is also scalable, as multiple initiators can connect to multiple targets, providing flexibility and high-performance storage access.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using iSCSI for storage connectivity?

Advantages of using iSCSI for storage connectivity:Cost-effective: iSCSI uses existing Ethernet infrastructure, eliminating the need for expensive Fibre Channel (FC) equipment. This makes it a more cost-effective solution for storage connectivity.Scalability: iSCSI allows for easy scalability, as it can leverage existing Ethernet networks. Adding more storage devices or expanding storage capacity is relatively simple and cost-efficient.Flexibility: iSCSI can be used with various types of storage systems, including direct-attached storage (DAS), network-attached storage (NAS), and storage area network (SAN). This provides flexibility in choosing the most suitable storage solution for specific needs.Compatibility: iSCSI is compatible with standard Ethernet equipment, making it easier to integrate with existing IT infrastructure. It can run over existing LANs, WANs, or even the internet, enabling remote storage access.Performance: With advancements in network speed and technology, iSCSI can now deliver high-performance storage connectivity, comparable to Fibre Channel. It can provide low-latency and high-bandwidth connections, ensuring efficient data transfer.Disadvantages of using iSCSI for storage connectivity:Network dependency: iSCSI relies on the underlying network infrastructure, which can introduce latency and potential bottlenecks. Network congestion or failures can impact storage performance and availability.Network security: As iSCSI operates over standard Ethernet networks, it is susceptible to network security risks. Additional measures, such as encryption and authentication, need to be implemented to ensure data security.Performance variability: The performance of iSCSI can vary depending on the network conditions and the quality of the underlying Ethernet infrastructure. It may not be suitable for applications that require extremely low latency or consistently high performance.Complexity: Configuring and managing iSCSI networks can be more complex compared to traditional storage connectivity options. It requires expertise in networking and storage technologies, which may require additional training or resources.Limited distance: iSCSI has distance limitations due to the constraints of Ethernet networks. It is typically limited to a few kilometers, whereas Fibre Channel can support longer distances. This can be a disadvantage for organizations with geographically dispersed storage needs.

Does the NAS Promise Vess 1840i support iSCSI protocol, and if so, what are its capabilities and limitations in terms of iSCSI implementation?

Yes, the NAS Promise Vess 1840i does support the iSCSI protocol. Its capabilities and limitations in terms of iSCSI implementation are as follows:Capabilities:iSCSI Target: The Vess 1840i can act as an iSCSI target, allowing you to present storage volumes to other devices on the network as iSCSI targets.iSCSI Initiator: The Vess 1840i can also function as an iSCSI initiator, enabling it to connect to iSCSI targets on other devices or storage systems.Multiple iSCSI Targets: The Vess 1840i supports the creation of multiple iSCSI targets, allowing you to provide storage to multiple devices or servers simultaneously.High Performance: The Vess 1840i is designed to deliver high-performance iSCSI storage, offering fast data transfer rates and low latency.Limitations:Scalability: While the Vess 1840i supports multiple iSCSI targets, the overall scalability is limited by the capacity and performance of the system. If you require a large-scale iSCSI deployment, you may need to consider a more scalable storage solution.Network Bandwidth: The performance of iSCSI is dependent on the available network bandwidth. If the network infrastructure is not capable of providing sufficient bandwidth, it may impact the overall performance of the iSCSI implementation.Network Dependencies: iSCSI relies on the network infrastructure for connectivity. Any issues with the network, such as latency, packet loss, or network congestion, can affect the performance and reliability of iSCSI storage.Configuration Complexity: Setting up and configuring iSCSI can be more complex than traditional storage protocols. It may require advanced knowledge and expertise to properly configure and optimize the iSCSI implementation on the Vess 1840i.It is recommended to consult the product documentation or contact Promise Technology support for detailed information on the specific capabilities and limitations of the Vess 1840i in terms of iSCSI implementation.

Ultimate Guide to Best Practices for Recovering Data from a Failed NAS Promise Vess 1840i RAID

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

Has your NAS Promise Vess 1840i 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?

Ultimate Guide to Best Practices for Recovering Data from a Failed NAS Promise Vess 1840i RAID

Data Recovery Tool

Promise Vess 1840i 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 Vess 1840i. 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 Promise Vess 1840i
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 Promise 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 data be lost during the process of upgrading or updating the NAS Promise Vess 1840i device's firmware?

Yes, there is a possibility of data loss during the process of upgrading or updating the firmware of a NAS device like the Promise Vess 1840i. While firmware updates are typically designed to be non-destructive and preserve data, there can be unforeseen issues or errors that may result in data loss. It is always recommended to have a backup of your data before performing any firmware updates or upgrades to minimize the risk of data loss.

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

Although the NAS Vess 1840i 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 Promise Vess 1840i. 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 Promise

Vess 1840i has 16 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

RAID 0;
RAID 1;
RAID 1E;
RAID 3;
RAID 5;
RAID 6;
RAID 30;
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:

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 Promise Vess 1840i 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 Vess 1840i, feel free to leave a comment!

Reply
Merlin Hutchinson 7.09.2023 19:45 #

How long does the data recovery process from a NAS Promise Vess 1840i device usually take?

Reply
- Hetman Software 7.09.2023 21:00 #
  
  The data recovery process from a NAS Promise Vess 1840i device can vary in duration depending on several factors. The time it takes to recover data can be influenced by the size of the storage capacity, the number of files, the complexity of the data loss situation, and the condition of the device itself.
  In general, data recovery from a NAS device can take anywhere from a few hours to several days. It is important to note that data recovery is a complex and delicate process that requires expertise and specialized tools. It may involve repairing any hardware issues, rebuilding RAID arrays, and extracting data from damaged or corrupted drives.
  The best approach is to consult with a professional data recovery service provider who can evaluate the specific situation and provide an estimated timeline for the recovery process.
  
  Reply

Post comment

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

What is iSCSI and how does it work in the context of network storage?

iSCSI stands for Internet Small Computer System Interface. It is a protocol that allows the transmission of SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) commands over an IP network, typically Ethernet.
In the context of network storage, iSCSI enables the use of IP networks to connect servers to storage devices, such as disk arrays or tape libraries. This allows for the creation of a storage area network (SAN), where multiple servers can access shared storage resources.
When using iSCSI, the storage device acts as an iSCSI target, while the server or client accessing the storage acts as an iSCSI initiator. The initiator sends SCSI commands encapsulated in IP packets to the target, which then processes these commands and performs the requested storage operations.
To establish a connection, the initiator and target negotiate parameters such as authentication, security, and data transfer settings. Once the connection is established, the initiator can perform various storage operations, including reading and writing data, creating or deleting volumes, and managing storage resources.
iSCSI offers several advantages for network storage. It allows for the consolidation of storage resources, simplifying management and reducing costs. It leverages existing IP networks, eliminating the need for dedicated storage networks. iSCSI is also scalable, as multiple initiators can connect to multiple targets, providing flexibility and high-performance storage access.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using iSCSI for storage connectivity?
Advantages of using iSCSI for storage connectivity:
1. Cost-effective: iSCSI uses existing Ethernet infrastructure, eliminating the need for expensive Fibre Channel (FC) equipment. This makes it a more cost-effective solution for storage connectivity.
2. Scalability: iSCSI allows for easy scalability, as it can leverage existing Ethernet networks. Adding more storage devices or expanding storage capacity is relatively simple and cost-efficient.
3. Flexibility: iSCSI can be used with various types of storage systems, including direct-attached storage (DAS), network-attached storage (NAS), and storage area network (SAN). This provides flexibility in choosing the most suitable storage solution for specific needs.
4. Compatibility: iSCSI is compatible with standard Ethernet equipment, making it easier to integrate with existing IT infrastructure. It can run over existing LANs, WANs, or even the internet, enabling remote storage access.
5. Performance: With advancements in network speed and technology, iSCSI can now deliver high-performance storage connectivity, comparable to Fibre Channel. It can provide low-latency and high-bandwidth connections, ensuring efficient data transfer.
Disadvantages of using iSCSI for storage connectivity:
1. Network dependency: iSCSI relies on the underlying network infrastructure, which can introduce latency and potential bottlenecks. Network congestion or failures can impact storage performance and availability.
2. Network security: As iSCSI operates over standard Ethernet networks, it is susceptible to network security risks. Additional measures, such as encryption and authentication, need to be implemented to ensure data security.
3. Performance variability: The performance of iSCSI can vary depending on the network conditions and the quality of the underlying Ethernet infrastructure. It may not be suitable for applications that require extremely low latency or consistently high performance.
4. Complexity: Configuring and managing iSCSI networks can be more complex compared to traditional storage connectivity options. It requires expertise in networking and storage technologies, which may require additional training or resources.
5. Limited distance: iSCSI has distance limitations due to the constraints of Ethernet networks. It is typically limited to a few kilometers, whereas Fibre Channel can support longer distances. This can be a disadvantage for organizations with geographically dispersed storage needs.
Does the NAS Promise Vess 1840i support iSCSI protocol, and if so, what are its capabilities and limitations in terms of iSCSI implementation?
Yes, the NAS Promise Vess 1840i does support the iSCSI protocol. Its capabilities and limitations in terms of iSCSI implementation are as follows:
Capabilities:
1. iSCSI Target: The Vess 1840i can act as an iSCSI target, allowing you to present storage volumes to other devices on the network as iSCSI targets.
2. iSCSI Initiator: The Vess 1840i can also function as an iSCSI initiator, enabling it to connect to iSCSI targets on other devices or storage systems.
3. Multiple iSCSI Targets: The Vess 1840i supports the creation of multiple iSCSI targets, allowing you to provide storage to multiple devices or servers simultaneously.
4. High Performance: The Vess 1840i is designed to deliver high-performance iSCSI storage, offering fast data transfer rates and low latency.
Limitations:
1. Scalability: While the Vess 1840i supports multiple iSCSI targets, the overall scalability is limited by the capacity and performance of the system. If you require a large-scale iSCSI deployment, you may need to consider a more scalable storage solution.
2. Network Bandwidth: The performance of iSCSI is dependent on the available network bandwidth. If the network infrastructure is not capable of providing sufficient bandwidth, it may impact the overall performance of the iSCSI implementation.
3. Network Dependencies: iSCSI relies on the network infrastructure for connectivity. Any issues with the network, such as latency, packet loss, or network congestion, can affect the performance and reliability of iSCSI storage.
4. Configuration Complexity: Setting up and configuring iSCSI can be more complex than traditional storage protocols. It may require advanced knowledge and expertise to properly configure and optimize the iSCSI implementation on the Vess 1840i.
It is recommended to consult the product documentation or contact Promise Technology support for detailed information on the specific capabilities and limitations of the Vess 1840i in terms of iSCSI implementation.