What to Do When Your NAS QNAP GM-1000 RAID Array Breaks: Steps to Take for Recovery

Has your NAS QNAP GM-1000 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?

What to Do When Your NAS QNAP GM-1000 RAID Array Breaks: Steps to Take for Recovery

QNAP GM-1000 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 GM-1000. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

What to Do When Your NAS QNAP GM-1000 RAID Array Breaks: Steps to Take for Recovery

RAID Recovery™ 2.8
Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.
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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 QNAP 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 improper configuration of network settings or IP addresses result in data loss on NAS QNAP GM-1000 devices?

Yes, improper configuration of network settings or IP addresses can result in data loss on NAS QNAP GM-1000 devices. If the network settings or IP addresses are not properly configured, the NAS device may not be accessible on the network, leading to potential data loss or inaccessibility of the stored data. It is important to ensure that the network settings and IP addresses are correctly configured to prevent any data loss or connectivity issues.

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

Although the NAS GM-1000 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 QNAP GM-1000. 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 QNAP

How to recover data from a QNAP

GM-1000 has 20 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 50;
  • RAID 60;
  • RAID 6;
  • RAID 5;
  • RAID 10;
  • RAID 0;
  • RAID 1;
  • JBOD;

NAS supports:

  • ZFS;
  • EXT4;
  • EXT3;
  • exFAT;
  • FAT32 (External Disk Only);
  • NTFS (External Disk Only);
  • HFS+ (External Disk Read Only);

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 QNAP GM-1000 network-attached storage keeps QTS (QuTS hero) 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

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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 GM-1000, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Tregonwell Bellingham
    Tregonwell Bellingham 15.09.2023 02:54 #
    Are there any specific backup software recommended for data recovery from NAS QNAP GM-1000 devices?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 15.09.2023 03:59 #

      Yes, there are several backup software options that are recommended for data recovery from QNAP NAS GM-1000 devices. Some popular choices are:

      1. Acronis True Image: Acronis True Image is a comprehensive backup software that supports QNAP NAS devices. It offers features like full system image backups, file-level backups, and even cloud backups.
      2. EaseUS Todo Backup: EaseUS Todo Backup is another reliable backup software that supports QNAP NAS devices. It allows you to create full backups, incremental backups, and schedule automatic backups.
      3. AOMEI Backupper: AOMEI Backupper is a user-friendly backup software that supports QNAP NAS devices. It offers features like system backup, file backup, disk backup, and even clone functionality.
      4. Synology Active Backup: Synology Active Backup is a backup solution specifically designed for Synology NAS devices, but it also supports QNAP NAS devices. It provides features like backup for virtual machines, file-level backups, and even cross-platform backups.

      It's important to note that the compatibility and functionality of these software may vary, so it's recommended to check the specific requirements and features of each software before making a choice.

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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 specifications of the NAS QNAP GM-1000 that make it suitable for game console storage and management?

    The NAS QNAP GM-1000 is specifically designed for game console storage and management, offering several key features and specifications that make it suitable for this purpose. Some of these include:

    1. High-Speed Performance: The GM-1000 is equipped with a powerful Intel processor and up to 32GB of RAM, providing fast and efficient performance for storing and managing games.
    2. Large Storage Capacity: It supports up to four 3.5-inch SATA hard drives, allowing for a significant amount of storage space to store numerous games, updates, and downloadable content.
    3. RAID Support: The NAS supports various RAID configurations, such as RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10, offering data redundancy and protection against drive failures.
    4. Multiple Connectivity Options: It features multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, HDMI output, and dual 2.5GbE ports, enabling seamless connectivity with game consoles, PCs, and other devices.
    5. SSD Caching: The GM-1000 supports SSD caching, which enhances the overall performance by accelerating data access and reducing latency.
    6. QTS Operating System: QNAP's QTS operating system empowers users with a user-friendly interface, allowing easy setup, management, and organization of game files and data.
    7. App Center: The NAS comes with an App Center that offers a wide range of applications, including multimedia, backup, security, and gaming-specific apps, enhancing the gaming experience.
    8. Remote Access and Streaming: Users can access their game library remotely using QNAP's myQNAPcloud service, allowing them to play games on the go or stream them to compatible devices.
    9. Expandability: The GM-1000 supports expansion units, enabling users to increase storage capacity as their game library grows.
    10. Data Protection and Backup: QNAP provides various backup solutions, including snapshots, hybrid backup sync, and RTRR, ensuring data integrity and protection against accidental deletion or hardware failures.

    These features and specifications make the NAS QNAP GM-1000 an ideal choice for game console storage and management, offering high performance, ample storage, data protection, and convenient access to game libraries.

  • How does the NAS QNAP GM-1000 enhance the gaming experience by providing seamless storage, backup, and multimedia streaming capabilities for game consoles?

    The NAS QNAP GM-1000 enhances the gaming experience by providing seamless storage, backup, and multimedia streaming capabilities for game consoles in several ways:

    1. Storage Expansion: The GM-1000 acts as a network-attached storage (NAS) device, allowing gamers to expand their console's storage capacity. With its high-capacity hard drives, it provides ample space to store a large number of games, downloadable content (DLC), patches, and updates. This ensures gamers have sufficient storage to install and play their favorite games without worrying about running out of space.
    2. Backup and Recovery: The GM-1000 offers backup and recovery features, allowing gamers to safeguard their game data. It can automatically back up game saves, profiles, and other important data from the console. In case of a console failure or data loss, gamers can easily restore their saved progress and continue playing without any interruptions.
    3. Multimedia Streaming: The GM-1000 supports multimedia streaming capabilities, enabling gamers to enjoy their favorite movies, TV shows, music, and photos on their consoles. It can store and stream media content to multiple devices simultaneously, allowing gamers to access their media library from anywhere within their home network. This eliminates the need for separate storage devices and provides a seamless multimedia experience.
    4. Remote Access and Sharing: The GM-1000 allows gamers to access their stored game data and multimedia content remotely. With QNAP's mobile apps, gamers can access their NAS from their smartphones or tablets, even when they are away from home. This feature enables gamers to share their game progress, screenshots, and videos with friends, enhancing the social aspect of gaming.
    5. Performance and Speed: The GM-1000 is designed to provide fast and reliable performance. It supports high-speed data transfer protocols, such as Gigabit Ethernet and USB 3.0, ensuring quick access to stored games and multimedia content. This helps reduce load times and provides a smooth gaming experience.

    Overall, the NAS QNAP GM-1000 enhances the gaming experience by offering expanded storage, backup and recovery options, multimedia streaming capabilities, remote access, and improved performance. It provides gamers with a centralized and convenient solution for managing their game data and multimedia content, ultimately enhancing their gaming experience.

  • Can you provide examples of popular game consoles that are compatible with the NAS QNAP GM-1000, and explain how it optimizes storage and performance for these gaming platforms?

    The NAS QNAP GM-1000 is a gaming-centric network-attached storage device that is compatible with various popular game consoles. While it does not directly optimize storage and performance for gaming platforms, it offers features that enhance the overall gaming experience. Here are a few examples:

    1. PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5: The QNAP GM-1000 can function as a centralized storage hub for PlayStation consoles. It allows users to store game installations, updates, and backups on the NAS, freeing up space on the console's internal storage. This ensures that gamers can maintain a larger library of games without worrying about limited storage capacities.
    2. Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S: Similar to PlayStation consoles, the QNAP GM-1000 can be used as an external storage solution for Xbox consoles. By connecting the NAS, gamers can store games, downloadable content, and media files on the device, expanding the available storage on their consoles. This enables players to have a vast collection of games readily accessible without worrying about running out of space.
    3. Nintendo Switch: While the Nintendo Switch does not support external storage, the GM-1000 can still be beneficial for Switch owners. It allows users to store game backups, screenshots, videos, and other media files, ensuring that valuable game data is safely backed up. Additionally, the NAS can act as a media server, allowing users to stream videos, music, and photos to their Switch or other devices within the network.

    In terms of optimizing storage and performance, the QNAP GM-1000 offers features like RAID configurations, SSD caching, and high-speed network connectivity. RAID configurations (such as RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, or 10) enable data redundancy and protection against drive failures. SSD caching can enhance read and write speeds, improving overall performance when accessing frequently used files or games. The GM-1000 also supports high-speed Ethernet connections, ensuring fast data transfer rates between the NAS and gaming consoles.

    Overall, the QNAP GM-1000 provides a convenient and centralized storage solution for game consoles, allowing gamers to expand their storage capacities, back up valuable data, and enjoy a seamless gaming experience.