How to recover data from QNAP Turbo Station TS-h973AX 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-h973AX

QNAP Turbo Station TS-h973AX 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-h973AX.

How to recover data from NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-h973AX

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 improper configuration of network settings or IP addresses result in data loss on NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-h973AX devices?

Improper configuration of network settings or IP addresses can potentially result in data loss on NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-h973AX devices. Here are a few scenarios where data loss can occur:

  1. IP Address Conflict: If there is an IP address conflict, multiple devices on the network may have the same IP address. This can lead to communication issues and data corruption on the NAS.
  2. Network Misconfiguration: Incorrect network settings, such as subnet mask, gateway, or DNS server configuration, can cause connectivity problems. This can result in the NAS being inaccessible or experiencing data transfer errors.
  3. Firewall or Port Forwarding Issues: If the network firewall or port forwarding settings are not properly configured, it may prevent proper communication between the NAS and other devices. This can lead to data loss or limited access to the NAS.
  4. Firmware or Software Updates: Improperly updating the firmware or software on the NAS can introduce bugs or compatibility issues that may result in data loss or corruption.

To mitigate the risk of data loss due to network configuration issues, it is recommended to follow best practices:

  • Ensure that each device on the network has a unique IP address to avoid conflicts.
  • Double-check and configure network settings correctly, including subnet mask, gateway, and DNS server.
  • Configure the network firewall and port forwarding settings properly to allow necessary communication.
  • Regularly update the NAS firmware and software, following the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Implement a backup strategy to regularly back up important data to a separate storage device or cloud service.

If you encounter any issues or concerns with network configuration on your QNAP Turbo Station, it is advisable to consult the QNAP support documentation or contact their technical support for assistance.

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

Although NAS Turbo Station TS-h973AX 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-h973AX. 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-h973AX has 9 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 50;
  • RAID 60;
  • RAID 5;
  • RAID 6;
  • 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 Turbo Station TS-h973AX 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-h973AX, 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 NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-h973AX enhance the gaming experience on game consoles?

    The NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-h973AX can enhance the gaming experience on game consoles in several ways:

    1. Storage Expansion: The TS-h973AX provides large storage capacity, allowing gamers to store a vast library of games, downloadable content, and media files. This ensures that gamers have ample space to install and play their favorite games without worrying about running out of storage.
    2. High-Speed Performance: The TS-h973AX is equipped with a powerful processor and high-speed connectivity options such as 10GbE and Thunderbolt 3. This enables faster data transfer rates, reducing loading times and providing a seamless gaming experience with reduced latency.
    3. Media Streaming: The NAS supports media streaming capabilities, allowing gamers to stream their gameplay to other devices or platforms. This is particularly useful for content creators who want to share their gaming sessions with a wider audience.
    4. Centralized Backup: The TS-h973AX can serve as a centralized backup solution for game consoles. By connecting the console to the NAS, gamers can automatically back up their game saves, settings, and other important data. This ensures that their progress is protected in case of hardware failure or accidental deletion.
    5. Virtualization and Emulation: The TS-h973AX supports virtualization technologies, allowing gamers to run multiple operating systems or game consoles on a single NAS. This enables gamers to play games from different platforms without the need for multiple consoles, expanding their gaming options.
    6. Mobile Access: QNAP NAS devices come with mobile apps that allow gamers to access their NAS remotely. This means gamers can download games, manage their storage, and even play games directly from their mobile devices, enhancing the flexibility and convenience of gaming.

    Overall, the NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-h973AX enhances the gaming experience on game consoles by providing ample storage, high-speed performance, media streaming capabilities, centralized backup, virtualization options, and mobile access.

  • What are the key features and specifications of the NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-h973AX that make it suitable for game console storage and streaming?

    The QNAP Turbo Station TS-h973AX is a powerful NAS (Network Attached Storage) device that offers several key features and specifications that make it suitable for game console storage and streaming. Some of these features include:

    1. High-performance hardware: The TS-h973AX is equipped with a powerful AMD Ryzen V1000 series V1500B quad-core processor, which provides excellent processing power for handling game console storage and streaming tasks.
    2. Large storage capacity: This NAS supports up to nine hard drives, allowing for a massive storage capacity. This is crucial for storing large game files, downloadable content, and game backups.
    3. High-speed connectivity: The TS-h973AX supports dual 2.5GbE ports, which provide fast and reliable network connectivity. This ensures smooth streaming and reduces latency when accessing game data.
    4. SSD caching: The NAS supports SSD caching, allowing you to accelerate the performance of frequently accessed files and applications. This can be beneficial for faster loading times and smoother gameplay.
    5. 4K HDMI output: The TS-h973AX features an HDMI output, enabling you to directly connect it to a TV or monitor. This allows for easy streaming of games to a larger screen without the need for a separate streaming device.
    6. Virtualization support: The NAS supports virtualization technologies like Virtualization Station and Container Station. This enables you to run virtual machines or containers, allowing for a wide range of applications and services, including game servers.
    7. App ecosystem: QNAP provides a rich app ecosystem with various multimedia and streaming apps, including Plex, Emby, and Kodi. These apps make it easy to stream media and games to different devices, including game consoles.
    8. Cross-platform compatibility: The TS-h973AX is compatible with various game consoles, including PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. It supports common file systems like NTFS, exFAT, and FAT32, ensuring seamless compatibility with different consoles.

    Overall, the TS-h973AX offers a combination of powerful hardware, ample storage capacity, high-speed connectivity, and versatile features that make it well-suited for game console storage and streaming requirements.

  • Can the NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-h973AX be easily integrated with popular game consoles such as PlayStation or Xbox, and what are the steps involved in setting it up for optimal performance?

    Yes, the NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-h973AX can be easily integrated with popular game consoles such as PlayStation or Xbox. Here are the steps involved in setting it up for optimal performance:

    1. Connect the NAS to your network: Use an Ethernet cable to connect the NAS to your router or switch. Ensure that the NAS and the game console are on the same network.
    2. Configure network settings: Access the NAS administration interface (QNAP QTS) using a web browser. Go to the Control Panel and navigate to Network & Virtual Switch > Network & Virtual Switch. Ensure that the network settings are correctly configured, including IP address, subnet mask, and gateway.
    3. Enable DLNA server: DLNA allows your game console to access media files stored on the NAS. In the Control Panel, go to Applications > Multimedia Management > Media Streaming add-on. Enable the DLNA Media Server and configure the settings as per your requirements.
    4. Create shared folders: In the Control Panel, go to Privilege Settings > Shared Folders. Create a shared folder for game files or media content that you want to access from the game console. Set appropriate permissions for the folder.
    5. Enable multimedia services: If you want to stream media content from the NAS to your game console, enable multimedia services. In the Control Panel, go to Applications > Multimedia Management > Multimedia Console. Enable the required services like Plex, Emby, or Twonky Media Server.
    6. Configure port forwarding (optional): If you want to access the NAS remotely or stream media content outside your home network, you may need to configure port forwarding on your router. Refer to the QNAP documentation or your router's manual for specific instructions.
    7. Connect the game console to the NAS: On your PlayStation or Xbox, navigate to the media player or file explorer. Look for the NAS device on your network and access the shared folders or media libraries you have set up.

    By following these steps, you should be able to integrate the QNAP Turbo Station TS-h973AX with your game console and access media files or game data stored on the NAS.

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