How to recover data from QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro NAS

Is your network drive gone, and you are wondering what to do? Has a RAID system crashed, and your files are no longer accessible? Does your device display an error while booting? Have you accidentally rebuilt your RAID system? Are several hard disks out of order?

How to recover data from NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro

QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro.

How to recover data from NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro

Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.

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 regular data integrity checks help prevent data loss in NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro devices?

Yes, regular data integrity checks can help prevent data loss in NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro devices. These devices often have built-in data integrity features such as RAID configurations and file system checks that can help detect and prevent data corruption or loss.

RAID configurations, such as RAID 1 or RAID 5, provide redundancy by distributing data across multiple hard drives. This helps protect against data loss in case of a single drive failure. Regularly checking the RAID status and replacing any faulty drives can help ensure data integrity.

Additionally, QNAP NAS devices usually offer features like data scrubbing or data scrubbing with RAID scrubbing, which can detect and correct errors on the hard drives. These features verify the data integrity by checking for inconsistencies and repairing any errors found.

Performing regular file system checks can also help prevent data loss. QNAP NAS devices typically provide tools like File System Check (fsck) to scan and fix any file system errors. Running these checks periodically can help identify and repair any potential issues before they lead to data loss.

Overall, regular data integrity checks, including monitoring RAID status, using data scrubbing features, and performing file system checks, can significantly reduce the risk of data loss in NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro devices.

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

Although NAS Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro 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 Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro. 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 QNAP

How to recover data from a QNAP

Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro has 4 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

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

NAS supports:

  • ZFS;
  • EXT4;
  • EXT3;
  • 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 Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro 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 (1)

  • 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 Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro, feel free to leave a comment!
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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

  • How does the QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro function as an email server, and what are its key features in this regard?

    The QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro can function as an email server by utilizing its built-in QmailAgent application. QmailAgent is a full-featured email client that allows you to send, receive, and manage emails directly on the Turbo Station.

    Key features of the QNAP Turbo Station as an email server include:

    1. Centralized Email Management: The Turbo Station allows you to consolidate all your email accounts into one place, making it easier to manage and access your emails.
    2. Webmail Interface: QmailAgent provides a web-based interface that allows you to access your emails from any device with a web browser, without the need for additional email clients.
    3. Email Backup and Archiving: The Turbo Station can automatically back up your emails, ensuring that you never lose important messages. It also supports email archiving, allowing you to store and retrieve old emails easily.
    4. Collaborative Email Management: QmailAgent supports shared email folders, allowing multiple users to collaborate on managing emails. This is particularly useful for teams or small businesses.
    5. Anti-Spam and Anti-Virus Protection: The Turbo Station includes built-in anti-spam and anti-virus features to protect your email server from malicious emails and attachments.
    6. Email Notification and Synchronization: QmailAgent can send you notifications when new emails arrive, ensuring that you never miss an important message. It also supports email synchronization with other devices, keeping your email data up to date across all devices.

    Overall, the QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro provides a comprehensive email server solution with features that enhance email management, security, and collaboration.

  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of using the QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro as an email server compared to other dedicated email server solutions?

    Advantages of using the QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro as an email server:

    1. Cost-effective: The QNAP Turbo Station is a versatile device that can serve multiple purposes, including functioning as an email server. This eliminates the need for purchasing a separate dedicated email server, resulting in cost savings.
    2. Ease of setup and management: The QNAP Turbo Station comes with a user-friendly interface and intuitive setup process, making it easier for users to set up and manage their email server. It also provides various tools and features for monitoring and managing email accounts.
    3. Integration with other applications: The QNAP Turbo Station allows for seamless integration with other applications and services, such as file sharing, backup, and multimedia streaming. This integration can enhance productivity and efficiency within an organization.
    4. Data storage and backup: With built-in storage capabilities, the QNAP Turbo Station can store and backup email data, ensuring data integrity and availability. This feature eliminates the need for separate storage solutions and provides peace of mind for data security.

    Disadvantages of using the QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro as an email server:

    1. Limited scalability: The QNAP Turbo Station is designed for small to medium-sized businesses, and its capacity may be limited compared to dedicated email server solutions. It may not be suitable for large organizations with high email traffic and a large number of users.
    2. Performance limitations: While the QNAP Turbo Station is capable of handling email server functionalities, it may not offer the same level of performance as dedicated email server solutions. This can result in slower response times and reduced efficiency, especially during peak usage periods.
    3. Lack of advanced email server features: Dedicated email server solutions often come with advanced features and customization options that may not be available on the QNAP Turbo Station. This can be a limitation for organizations that require specific functionalities or have complex email server requirements.
    4. Reliance on a single device: By using the QNAP Turbo Station as an email server, organizations become dependent on a single device for their email services. This can pose a risk if the device fails or experiences downtime, potentially causing disruptions to email communication.

    Overall, while the QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro can serve as a cost-effective and manageable email server solution for small to medium-sized businesses, it may not be suitable for larger organizations or those with advanced email server requirements.

  • How does the QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro ensure security and privacy when serving as an email server, and what measures does it have in place to protect against potential threats or breaches?

    The QNAP Turbo Station TS-453mini / TS-453S Pro provides several security measures to ensure the security and privacy of its email server functionality. Here are some of the key features and measures it has in place:

    1. Secure Socket Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS): The Turbo Station supports SSL and TLS encryption protocols for secure communication between email clients and the server. This ensures that the email data transmitted between the server and clients is encrypted and protected against eavesdropping.
    2. Antivirus and Antispam Protection: The Turbo Station integrates antivirus and antispam software to scan incoming and outgoing emails. This helps to detect and block potential threats such as malware, viruses, and spam emails, thereby safeguarding the server and users' privacy.
    3. Access Control and User Management: The Turbo Station allows administrators to set access control policies and manage user accounts. This ensures that only authorized users have access to the email server and its resources, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches.
    4. IP and Connection Filtering: The Turbo Station supports IP and connection filtering, allowing administrators to define rules and restrictions on incoming and outgoing connections. This helps to block suspicious or malicious IP addresses and connections, enhancing the server's security.
    5. Email Encryption: The Turbo Station supports email encryption using protocols like S/MIME and OpenPGP. This allows users to encrypt their emails, ensuring that only the intended recipients can decrypt and read the messages. It adds an extra layer of privacy and security to sensitive email communications.
    6. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): The Turbo Station supports 2FA, which adds an extra layer of security to user logins. With 2FA enabled, users need to provide an additional authentication factor, such as a verification code from a mobile app, along with their password to access the email server. This helps to prevent unauthorized access even if the password is compromised.
    7. Regular Firmware Updates: QNAP regularly releases firmware updates for their Turbo Station devices, which include security patches and bug fixes. Keeping the firmware up to date helps to protect against potential vulnerabilities and ensures that the server is equipped with the latest security features.

    It's important to note that while the Turbo Station provides various security measures, it is still essential for administrators and users to follow best practices for email security, such as using strong passwords, regularly updating software, and educating users about phishing and social engineering attacks.

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