How to recover data from Synology Diskstation DS108j 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 Synology Diskstation DS108j
Data Recovery Tool

Synology Diskstation DS108j NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from Diskstation DS108j.

How to recover data from NAS Synology Diskstation DS108j

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

How can user training or education help in minimizing data loss incidents on NAS Synology Diskstation DS108j devices?

User training or education can help in minimizing data loss incidents on NAS Synology Diskstation DS108j devices in the following ways:

  1. Understanding Backup Strategies: Educating users about the importance of regular backups and implementing a proper backup strategy can significantly reduce the risk of data loss. Users should be trained on how to set up and schedule backups, as well as how to verify the integrity of the backed-up data.
  2. Security Awareness: Users should be educated about the importance of strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and regularly updating the firmware and software on their NAS devices. This helps in preventing unauthorized access and potential data breaches.
  3. Data Access Controls: Users should be trained on how to set up appropriate access controls and permissions for different users or groups. This ensures that only authorized individuals have access to specific files or folders, reducing the risk of accidental deletion or modification.
  4. RAID Configuration and Monitoring: Users should be educated on the different RAID configurations available and how to choose the appropriate one for their needs. Additionally, they should be trained on monitoring the health of their RAID arrays and taking appropriate actions in case of any warnings or failures.
  5. Regular Maintenance and Updates: Users should be educated on the importance of regular maintenance tasks like disk checks, firmware updates, and system health monitoring. This helps in identifying and resolving any potential issues before they lead to data loss.
  6. User Error Prevention: Users should be trained on best practices to avoid common user errors that can lead to data loss, such as accidental deletion, overwriting files, or improper file management. This includes techniques like double-checking before deleting, using versioning or file history features, and organizing files properly.

By providing users with the necessary knowledge and skills, organizations can minimize the risk of data loss incidents on NAS Synology Diskstation DS108j devices, ensuring the safety and integrity of their data.

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

Although NAS Diskstation DS108j 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 Synology Diskstation DS108j. 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 Synology

How to recover data from a Synology

Diskstation DS108j has 1 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • Nie wspiera;

NAS supports:

  • EXT3;
  • FAT (External Disk Only);
  • NTFS (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 Tools – Save 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 Synology Diskstation DS108j network-attached storage keeps DSM (DiskStation Manager) 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 Diskstation DS108j, 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

  • What are the necessary steps to physically set up a Synology Diskstation DS108j NAS at home?

    To physically set up a Synology Diskstation DS108j NAS at home, follow these necessary steps:

    1. Unpack the NAS: Start by unpacking the Diskstation NAS and ensure that all the necessary components are included in the package, such as the NAS unit, power adapter, Ethernet cable, and any other accessories.
    2. Choose a suitable location: Select an appropriate location to place the NAS. It should be a well-ventilated area with sufficient space around the device for proper airflow and cooling.
    3. Connect the power adapter: Plug one end of the power adapter into the NAS and the other end into a power outlet. Ensure a stable power supply.
    4. Connect the network cable: Take one end of the Ethernet cable and connect it to the LAN port on the NAS. Connect the other end to your home router or switch.
    5. Power on the NAS: Press the power button on the NAS to turn it on. Wait for the device to boot up, which may take a few minutes.
    6. Access the NAS: Open a web browser on your computer and enter the default IP address of the NAS (usually 192.168.1.1) in the address bar. Press Enter to access the Diskstation Manager (DSM) web interface.
    7. Install DSM: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the Diskstation Manager (DSM) software on the NAS. This will involve formatting the hard drives (if any) and configuring the basic settings.
    8. Configure network settings: In the DSM web interface, go to Control Panel > Network > Network Interface to configure the network settings. Set up a static IP address or enable DHCP to obtain an IP address automatically.
    9. Create disk volumes: If you have installed hard drives, go to Storage Manager in the DSM web interface and create disk volumes. You can choose RAID configurations, set up storage quotas, and configure other storage-related settings.
    10. Set up user accounts and permissions: Create user accounts and set up permissions to control access to the NAS. You can assign different user roles and define shared folders for specific users or groups.
    11. Enable services and applications: Enable various services and applications as per your requirements. This may include file sharing, media server, cloud synchronization, and more. You can find these options in the DSM web interface.
    12. Set up backup and security: Configure backup plans to safeguard your data. You can set up local backups to external drives or remote backups to cloud storage. Additionally, enable security features like firewall, antivirus, and two-factor authentication for enhanced protection.

    These steps should help you physically set up your Synology Diskstation DS108j NAS at home.

  • How do I configure the network settings and connect the Synology NAS to my home network?

    To configure the network settings and connect your Synology NAS to your home network, follow these steps:

    1. Connect the NAS to your router using an Ethernet cable.
    2. Power on the NAS and wait for it to boot up.
    3. Open a web browser on your computer and enter the default IP address of the NAS in the address bar. The default IP address is usually "http://find.synology.com" or "http://diskstation:5000".
    4. You will be directed to the Synology Assistant page. It will search for the NAS on your network and display the available devices.
    5. Select your NAS from the list and click "Connect."
    6. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the DiskStation Manager (DSM) software on your NAS. This software will help you manage and configure your NAS.
    7. Once the DSM installation is complete, you will be prompted to set up your NAS. Follow the instructions to create an administrator account and set a password.
    8. Next, you will be prompted to configure your network settings. Choose the "Automatic IP" option if you want your NAS to obtain an IP address automatically from your router. Alternatively, you can select the "Manual IP" option and enter the IP address, subnet mask, gateway, and DNS server manually.
    9. Click "Next" to proceed, and the NAS will apply the network settings.
    10. Once the network settings are applied, you can access your NAS by entering its IP address in a web browser or using the Synology Assistant.
    11. You may also need to configure port forwarding on your router to access your NAS remotely or enable services like FTP or Plex. Refer to the Synology documentation or their website for specific instructions on port forwarding and enabling services.

    Note: Make sure your computer and NAS are connected to the same network during the initial setup process.

  • What are the recommended settings and configurations for optimal performance and security on a Synology Diskstation DS108j NAS?

    Here are some recommended settings and configurations for optimal performance and security on a Synology Diskstation DS108j NAS:

    1. Firmware Updates: Regularly update the firmware of your NAS to ensure you have the latest security patches and performance improvements.
    2. Network Configuration: Set a strong and unique password for your NAS administrator account. Disable unnecessary services and ports to minimize potential attack vectors.
    3. User Accounts: Create individual user accounts for each person accessing the NAS. Assign appropriate access rights and permissions to each user to restrict unauthorized access to sensitive data.
    4. Shared Folders: Create separate shared folders for different types of data (e.g., documents, media, backups) and assign appropriate access permissions to each user or user group.
    5. Data Encryption: Enable data encryption for sensitive folders to protect your data in case of unauthorized access or theft. This can be done through the shared folder settings.
    6. Firewall: Enable the built-in firewall on your NAS and configure it to allow only necessary incoming and outgoing connections. Block any suspicious or unnecessary traffic.
    7. Antivirus and Malware Protection: Install and enable a reliable antivirus and malware protection package on your NAS. Schedule regular scans and keep the virus definitions up to date.
    8. Access Control: Use the built-in access control features to restrict access to your NAS from specific IP addresses or networks. This can help prevent unauthorized access attempts.
    9. Backup and Restore: Regularly back up your data to an external storage device or a cloud service. In case of data loss or system failure, you can restore your data from the backup.
    10. Power Management: Configure power management settings to optimize energy consumption and prolong the lifespan of your NAS. Set up scheduled power on/off times to reduce unnecessary power usage.
    11. RAID Configuration: If your NAS supports RAID, consider setting up a RAID configuration for data redundancy and improved performance. Choose the appropriate RAID level based on your needs.
    12. Network Security: Enable HTTPS and SSL/TLS encryption for remote access to your NAS. Use a secure VPN connection when accessing your NAS from outside your local network.

    Remember, these are general recommendations, and you should always consider your specific needs and consult the official documentation provided by Synology for your NAS model.
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