Data Recovery Best Practices for NAS Promise VSky c102 RAID Arrays

Recovering data from a failed ⭐ NAS RAID array? Implement these best practices for RAID level understanding, data redundancy, and recovery software.

Data Recovery Best Practices for NAS Promise VSky c102 RAID Arrays

Promise VSky c102 NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from VSky c102.

Data Recovery Best Practices for NAS Promise VSky c102 RAID Arrays

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 Promise also introduce some modifications to this process, and that is why data can be written to hard disk in a wide variety of ways.

Are there any specific file system repair or recovery tools recommended for NAS Promise VSky c102 devices?

There are several file system repair and recovery tools that can be used for NAS Promise VSky c102 devices. Some of the recommended tools are:

  1. TestDisk: TestDisk is a powerful open-source data recovery tool that can recover lost partitions and repair damaged file systems.
  2. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is a user-friendly tool that can recover deleted, formatted, or lost data from various storage devices, including NAS systems.
  3. R-Studio: R-Studio is a comprehensive data recovery and undelete program that supports a wide range of file systems, including NTFS, FAT, exFAT, and HFS+.
  4. GetDataBack: GetDataBack is a data recovery tool that specializes in recovering data from NAS systems and other storage devices. It supports various file systems, including NTFS, FAT, exFAT, and EXT.
  5. UFS Explorer: UFS Explorer is a versatile data recovery tool that supports a wide range of file systems, including NTFS, FAT, exFAT, EXT, and HFS+. It can recover lost data from NAS systems and other storage devices.

It is important to note that before using any file system repair or recovery tool, it is recommended to consult the user manual or contact Promise Technology support for specific recommendations and instructions for your VSky c102 device.

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

Although NAS VSky c102 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 Promise VSky c102. 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 Promise

How to recover data from a Promise

VSky c102 has 3 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 0;
  • RAID 1;
  • RAID 1E;
  • JBOD;

NAS supports:

  • exFAT, VFAT, FAT 12 / 16 / 32;
  • NTFS / ReFS;
  • APFS / HFS+;
  • Ext2 / 3 / 4 / ReiserFS / XFS / UFS / ZFS / Btrfs;
  • VMFS / HikvisionFS;

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 Promise VSky c102 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 VSky c102, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Isidore Dickenson
    Isidore Dickenson 7.09.2023 14:56 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Promise VSky c102 device be performed if there are issues with the storage pool or configurations?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 7.09.2023 15:59 #

      Yes, data recovery from a NAS Promise VSky c102 device can be performed even if there are issues with the storage pool or configurations. However, the success of the data recovery process will depend on the nature and extent of the issues.

      In case of storage pool issues, such as corruption or failure, data recovery can be attempted by using specialized data recovery software or by seeking professional data recovery services. These methods can help in recovering data from the damaged storage pool or rebuilding the pool to access the data.

      Similarly, if there are configuration issues, such as misconfigured settings or accidental deletion of configurations, data recovery can still be possible. In such cases, restoring the configurations from backups or seeking assistance from technical support can help in recovering the data.

      It is important to note that data recovery from a NAS device can be a complex and time-consuming process. It is recommended to consult with a professional data recovery service or the manufacturer's technical support for guidance and assistance in recovering data from a NAS Promise VSky c102 device with storage pool or configuration issues.

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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 benefits of using iTunes on the NAS Promise VSky c102?

    The NAS Promise VSky c102 is a network-attached storage device that can be used to store and manage media files, including music. When using iTunes on the NAS Promise VSky c102, some key features and benefits include:

    1. Centralized storage: The NAS Promise VSky c102 allows you to store all your iTunes media files in a central location, making it easy to access and manage your music library from multiple devices.
    2. Multi-device synchronization: With iTunes on the NAS Promise VSky c102, you can synchronize your music library across multiple devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets. This ensures that you have access to your music collection wherever you go.
    3. Remote access: The NAS Promise VSky c102 supports remote access, allowing you to stream your iTunes music library from anywhere with an internet connection. This means you can enjoy your music even when you're away from home.
    4. Backup and data protection: The NAS Promise VSky c102 offers data protection features like RAID configurations and backup options, ensuring the safety of your iTunes music library. In case of hardware failure or data loss, you can easily recover your music files.
    5. Scalability: The NAS Promise VSky c102 is designed to be scalable, allowing you to expand your storage capacity as your iTunes library grows. You can add additional hard drives or upgrade the existing ones to accommodate more music files.
    6. Multimedia server capabilities: In addition to iTunes, the NAS Promise VSky c102 can act as a multimedia server, supporting other media streaming protocols like DLNA and Plex. This means you can stream your music to compatible devices, such as smart TVs or media players.

    Overall, using iTunes on the NAS Promise VSky c102 provides a convenient and efficient way to store, manage, and access your music library, while also offering data protection and remote access capabilities.

  • How does the NAS Promise VSky c102 support iTunes libraries and media streaming?

    The NAS Promise VSky c102 supports iTunes libraries and media streaming through its built-in media server functionality. It has a dedicated iTunes server feature that allows you to centralize and share your iTunes library across multiple devices on your network.

    To set it up, you need to install the iTunes server application on the NAS and then configure it with your iTunes library location. Once configured, the NAS will automatically index your iTunes library and make it accessible to devices running iTunes on your network.

    You can then stream your media files, including music, videos, and photos, directly from the NAS to your iTunes-enabled devices. This allows you to access and enjoy your media collection without the need for local storage on each individual device.

  • Are there any limitations or compatibility issues to consider when using iTunes on the NAS Promise VSky c102?

    Yes, there are some limitations and compatibility issues to consider when using iTunes on the NAS Promise VSky c102.

    1. Operating System Compatibility: The Promise VSky c102 NAS supports various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. However, iTunes is primarily designed for macOS and Windows. While it is possible to run iTunes on a NAS, it may not be officially supported or optimized for the NAS operating system.
    2. Performance: The performance of iTunes on a NAS can be slower compared to running it on a local computer. NAS devices generally have lower processing power and limited RAM, which can affect the performance of resource-intensive applications like iTunes.
    3. iTunes Server Support: The Promise VSky c102 NAS may not have built-in iTunes server support. Some NAS devices offer iTunes server functionality, allowing you to stream media directly to iTunes clients. However, if the NAS does not have this feature, you may need to use alternative methods to access your media library.
    4. File Format Support: iTunes has specific requirements for file formats and metadata. Ensure that your media files are in a compatible format and have appropriate metadata tags to avoid any playback or indexing issues.
    5. Third-Party Apps: To overcome compatibility limitations, you may need to use third-party apps or plugins specifically designed for running iTunes on a NAS. These apps can provide additional features and optimize performance for NAS environments.

    It is recommended to check the Promise VSky c102 NAS documentation, forums, or contact their support team to get more specific information about using iTunes on their NAS device.

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