Recovering Data from NAS QNAP IS-453S RAID Arrays: Mechanical vs Logical Failures

Understand the causes and symptoms of mechanical and logical failures in ⭐ NAS RAID arrays for effective recovery.

Recovering Data from NAS QNAP IS-453S RAID Arrays: Mechanical vs Logical Failures

QNAP IS-453S NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from IS-453S.

Recovering Data from NAS QNAP IS-453S RAID Arrays: Mechanical vs Logical Failures

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

Can accidental deletion or user error cause data loss in NAS QNAP IS-453S devices?

Yes, accidental deletion or user error can cause data loss in NAS QNAP IS-453S devices. If a user accidentally deletes important files or folders, or makes changes to the NAS settings without proper knowledge, it can result in data loss. It is always recommended to have proper backups in place and to be cautious while handling data on NAS devices to prevent any data loss incidents.

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

Although NAS IS-453S 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 QNAP IS-453S. 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.

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How to recover data from a QNAP

How to recover data from a QNAP

IS-453S has 4 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • 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);

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 QNAP IS-453S 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.

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 IS-453S, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Enoch Cudworth
    Enoch Cudworth 18.09.2023 07:58 #
    Are there any specific data structures used in NAS QNAP IS-453S devices that may affect data recovery?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 18.09.2023 09:00 #

      The NAS QNAP IS-453S device uses a Linux-based operating system and supports various file systems such as EXT3, EXT4, NTFS, and FAT32. It primarily utilizes RAID technology for data storage and protection. The specific data structures used in this device include:

      1. RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks): QNAP IS-453S supports various RAID levels such as RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, RAID 10, and JBOD. RAID combines multiple physical drives into a logical unit to improve performance, redundancy, or both. The data is distributed across the drives based on the RAID level chosen.
      2. File System: The IS-453S supports multiple file systems, including EXT3, EXT4, NTFS, and FAT32. The file system manages how data is stored, organized, and accessed on the drives. It defines the structure of directories, files, and metadata.
      3. Btrfs (B-Tree File System): Btrfs is a modern file system supported by QNAP NAS devices. It offers features like data integrity, snapshot capabilities, and advanced RAID functionalities. Btrfs uses a copy-on-write mechanism to ensure data consistency and integrity.

      When it comes to data recovery, the specific data structures used in the NAS device may affect the recovery process. If the device uses RAID, the recovery process may involve reconstructing the RAID array and rebuilding the data from redundant information. If the file system is damaged or corrupted, it may require specialized tools or software to recover the data.

      It's important to note that data recovery from a NAS device can be complex and may require professional assistance, especially if the data is critical or the device has suffered hardware failures. It's recommended to consult with data recovery experts or QNAP support for guidance in such situations.

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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 steps involved in performing a software update on the QNAP IS-453S NAS?

    To perform a software update on the QNAP IS-453S NAS, follow these steps:

    1. Connect to the QNAP NAS: Ensure that your computer is connected to the same network as the NAS. Open a web browser and enter the IP address of the NAS in the address bar. Press Enter to access the QNAP web interface.
    2. Login to the NAS: Enter your username and password to log in to the QNAP web interface.
    3. Check for updates: Once logged in, navigate to the "Control Panel" and click on "System Settings." Under the "System" section, click on "Firmware Update." The NAS will check for available updates.
    4. Download the update: If a new firmware update is available, click on the "Download" button to start downloading the update file. Wait for the download to complete.
    5. Install the update: After the download is complete, click on the "Update" button to begin the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed with the update. It is recommended to back up your data before proceeding.
    6. Wait for the update to finish: The NAS will automatically restart and begin installing the update. During this process, it is important not to turn off or disconnect the NAS. Wait for the update to complete.
    7. Verify the update: Once the update is finished, log in to the QNAP web interface again. Navigate to "Control Panel" > "System Settings" > "Firmware Update" to verify that the firmware has been updated to the latest version.

    Note: It is always advisable to read the release notes and documentation provided by QNAP for each firmware update to understand the changes and any specific instructions or precautions to be taken during the update process.

  • Are there any specific requirements or precautions to be taken before initiating a software update on the QNAP IS-453S NAS?

    Before initiating a software update on the QNAP IS-453S NAS, it is recommended to take the following requirements and precautions:

    1. Backup: Ensure that you have a backup of all important data on the NAS. This is a precautionary measure in case anything goes wrong during the update process.
    2. Check Compatibility: Verify that the software update is compatible with your specific model of the QNAP IS-453S NAS. Check the QNAP website or consult the product documentation for compatibility information.
    3. Internet Connection: Ensure that the NAS has a stable internet connection. This is necessary for downloading the software update files.
    4. Sufficient Storage Space: Make sure that there is enough available storage space on the NAS for the software update files. Clear out unnecessary files if needed.
    5. Power Supply: Connect the NAS to a reliable power supply to prevent any interruption during the update process. It is recommended to use an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to safeguard against power outages.
    6. Disable Services: Before starting the update, it is advisable to disable any non-essential services running on the NAS. This can help avoid any potential conflicts or issues during the update.
    7. Read Release Notes: Review the release notes or changelog for the software update. This will provide information about any new features, improvements, or known issues that may be relevant to your usage.
    8. Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided by QNAP for the specific update process. These instructions can typically be found in the software update documentation or on the QNAP website.

    By following these requirements and precautions, you can minimize the risk of encountering any problems during the software update process on the QNAP IS-453S NAS.

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