Mechanical vs Logical Failures in NAS QNAP TR-004U RAID Arrays: Recovery Strategies

Identify mechanical and logical failures in ⭐ NAS RAID arrays for successful data recovery.

Mechanical vs Logical Failures in NAS QNAP TR-004U RAID Arrays: Recovery Strategies

QNAP TR-004U NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from TR-004U.

Mechanical vs Logical Failures in NAS QNAP TR-004U RAID Arrays: Recovery Strategies

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.

Are there any specific precautions to take while migrating data between NAS QNAP TR-004U devices?

Yes, there are some precautions you should take while migrating data between NAS QNAP TR-004U devices. Here are a few:

  1. Backup your data: Before starting the migration process, it is always recommended to create a backup of your data. This will ensure that even if something goes wrong during the migration, you will still have a copy of your important files.
  2. Check compatibility: Ensure that both the source and target NAS devices are compatible with each other. Check the specifications and supported models to avoid any compatibility issues.
  3. Update firmware: Make sure that both NAS devices are running on the latest firmware version. Updating the firmware can resolve any known issues and improve the overall stability of the devices.
  4. Plan the migration process: Create a detailed plan on how you will migrate the data between the devices. This may include steps like creating shared folders, setting up permissions, and transferring the data in an organized manner.
  5. Test the migration process: Before migrating all the data, it is a good practice to test the migration process with a small amount of data. This will help you identify any potential issues or errors and allow you to make necessary adjustments before migrating all the data.
  6. Monitor the migration progress: Keep an eye on the migration process to ensure that it is running smoothly. Check for any error messages or warnings and take appropriate actions if needed.
  7. Verify the migrated data: Once the migration is complete, verify that all the data has been successfully transferred to the new NAS device. Compare the files and folders on both devices to ensure nothing was missed or corrupted during the migration.

By following these precautions, you can minimize the risk of data loss or any other issues during the migration process.

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

Although NAS TR-004U 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 TR-004U. 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

TR-004U 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 TR-004U 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 TR-004U, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Kirk Forbes-Robertson
    Kirk Forbes-Robertson 18.09.2023 02:39 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS QNAP TR-004U device be done if the device is showing signs of firmware or software bugs?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 18.09.2023 04:00 #

      Yes, data recovery from a QNAP TR-004U device can be done even if the device is showing signs of firmware or software bugs. In such cases, it is recommended to contact QNAP technical support for assistance. They can guide you through troubleshooting steps or provide firmware updates to fix the bugs.

      If the device is still not functioning properly after attempting the recommended steps, it is advisable to seek professional data recovery services. These experts can recover data directly from the hard drives within the NAS device, bypassing any firmware or software issues. However, it is important to note that professional data recovery services can be quite expensive.

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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 network protocols are supported by the NAS QNAP TR-004U device?

    The NAS QNAP TR-004U device supports the following network protocols:

    1. CIFS/SMB (Common Internet File System/Server Message Block): This protocol allows file sharing and access to shared folders over a network. It is commonly used in Windows environments.
    2. NFS (Network File System): NFS is a distributed file system protocol that allows remote file access and sharing between networked computers. It is commonly used in Unix/Linux environments.
    3. AFP (Apple Filing Protocol): AFP is a network protocol used by Apple devices for file sharing and access. It is commonly used in macOS environments.
    4. FTP (File Transfer Protocol): FTP is a standard network protocol used for transferring files between a client and a server on a computer network. It allows for file upload, download, and management.
    5. TFTP (Trivial File Transfer Protocol): TFTP is a simplified version of FTP that is commonly used for booting devices or transferring small files.
    6. WebDAV (Web Distributed Authoring and Versioning): WebDAV is an extension of the HTTP protocol that allows for collaborative editing and management of files on remote web servers.
    7. Rsync: Rsync is a file synchronization and transfer protocol that is commonly used for efficient backup and mirroring of files.

    These protocols enable the NAS QNAP TR-004U device to provide various file sharing and access capabilities over a network.

  • How do the network protocols on the NAS QNAP TR-004U device facilitate data transfer and sharing across a network?

    The network protocols on the NAS QNAP TR-004U device facilitate data transfer and sharing across a network by providing standardized rules and procedures for communication between devices. Here are some of the key network protocols used by the device:

    1. File Transfer Protocol (FTP): FTP allows users to transfer files between the NAS and other devices over a network. It provides a simple and reliable way to upload, download, and manage files remotely.
    2. Network File System (NFS): NFS is a protocol commonly used in UNIX and Linux environments for sharing files over a network. It allows users to access files on the NAS as if they were stored locally on their own machines.
    3. Server Message Block (SMB)/Common Internet File System (CIFS): SMB/CIFS is a protocol used by Windows operating systems for file and printer sharing. It enables seamless file sharing between the NAS and Windows-based devices on the network.
    4. Apple File Protocol (AFP): AFP is a protocol used by Apple devices for file sharing. It allows Mac users to access and share files on the NAS using their native file system.
    5. Web-based Distributed Authoring and Versioning (WebDAV): WebDAV is an extension of the HTTP protocol that enables collaborative editing and management of files on remote servers. It allows users to access and edit files on the NAS using a web browser or compatible software.

    These network protocols provide different methods for accessing and transferring data, allowing users to choose the most suitable protocol based on their specific requirements and the devices they are using. They ensure secure and efficient data transfer and sharing across the network.

  • Are there any specific network protocol requirements or configurations that need to be considered when using the NAS QNAP TR-004U device in a network environment?

    Yes, there are specific network protocol requirements and configurations to consider when using the QNAP TR-004U device in a network environment. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

    1. Network Protocols: The QNAP TR-004U supports various network protocols such as SMB/CIFS, AFP, FTP, and NFS. You need to ensure that the network environment supports these protocols and that the necessary services are enabled.
    2. IP Address Configuration: The TR-004U requires an IP address to communicate on the network. You can configure it with a static IP address or use DHCP to obtain an IP address automatically from the network.
    3. Network Connectivity: The TR-004U needs to be connected to the network using an Ethernet cable. Ensure that you have a free Ethernet port on your network switch or router to connect the device.
    4. Firewall and Port Forwarding: If you have a firewall or router with port forwarding enabled, you may need to configure it to allow access to the TR-004U. The specific ports and protocols required may vary depending on the services you intend to use (e.g., SMB uses port 445).
    5. User Authentication: The TR-004U supports user authentication to control access to shared folders. You can configure user accounts and permissions within the device's settings. Ensure that the appropriate users are created and granted the necessary access rights.
    6. RAID Configuration: The TR-004U supports various RAID configurations for data redundancy and performance. You need to configure the RAID level based on your requirements before using the device. This can be done through the QNAP management interface.
    7. Firmware Updates: Regularly check for firmware updates for the TR-004U on the QNAP website. Keeping the device's firmware up to date ensures that you have the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches.

    It is recommended to refer to the QNAP TR-004U user manual or consult QNAP support for detailed instructions and specific requirements based on your network environment.

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