Recovering Data After NAS Synology DiskStation DS1812+ RAID Controller Failure: Causes and Recovery Steps

RAID controller failure on ⭐ NAS: understand its causes, consequences, and data recovery options.

Recovering Data After NAS Synology DiskStation DS1812+ RAID Controller Failure: Causes and Recovery Steps

Synology DiskStation DS1812+ 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 DS1812+.

Recovering Data After NAS Synology DiskStation DS1812+ RAID Controller Failure: Causes and Recovery Steps

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 file system corruption impact data integrity on NAS Synology DiskStation DS1812+ devices?

File system corruption on a NAS Synology DiskStation DS1812+ device can have a significant impact on data integrity. Here are a few ways it can affect the device:

  1. Data Loss: File system corruption can lead to the loss of data stored on the NAS device. This can occur if critical file system structures become corrupted, making it difficult or impossible for the system to access and retrieve the data.
  2. Inaccessible Files: Corrupted file systems can render files and folders inaccessible. Users may experience errors when trying to open or access files, leading to data loss or the inability to retrieve important information.
  3. Data Modification: File system corruption can also result in data modification or alteration. This means that the content of files may be changed, leading to data inconsistencies or incorrect information. This can be particularly problematic for critical data that needs to be accurate and reliable.
  4. System Instability: A corrupted file system can cause system instability, leading to frequent crashes, freezes, or slow performance. These issues can disrupt normal operations and make it challenging to access or manage data effectively.
  5. Difficulty in Recovery: Recovering data from a corrupted file system can be a complex and time-consuming process. In some cases, it may require specialized tools or expertise to recover the lost or corrupted data. This can result in significant downtime and potential loss of productivity.

To mitigate the impact of file system corruption on data integrity, it is essential to regularly back up data, perform routine maintenance, and ensure the NAS device's firmware and software are up to date. Additionally, implementing RAID configurations and using redundant storage can help protect against data loss in case of file system corruption.

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

Although NAS DiskStation DS1812+ 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 DS1812+. 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 DS1812+ has 8 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR);
  • RAID 6;
  • RAID 5;
  • RAID 10;
  • RAID 1;
  • RAID 0;
  • Basic;
  • JBOD;

NAS supports:

  • Btrfs;
  • EXT4;
  • EXT3 (External Disk Only);
  • FAT32 (External Disk Only);
  • exFAT (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 Synology DiskStation DS1812+ 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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  • 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 DS1812+, 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 advantages of using the Synology DiskStation DS1812+ as an email server compared to traditional email hosting services?

    There are several advantages of using the Synology DiskStation DS1812+ as an email server compared to traditional email hosting services:

    1. Cost-effectiveness: Using the DS1812+ as an email server eliminates the need for a third-party email hosting service, which can be expensive. You only need to make a one-time investment in the hardware, and there are no recurring monthly fees.
    2. Control and privacy: Hosting your own email server gives you complete control over your data and privacy. You don't have to rely on a third-party service to handle your sensitive emails, ensuring that your data remains secure.
    3. Customization and flexibility: With the DS1812+, you have complete control over the email server configuration. You can customize features, security settings, and storage options according to your specific requirements. This level of flexibility is not always possible with traditional email hosting services.
    4. Scalability: The DS1812+ is designed to support multiple users and can handle a large number of emails. If your organization grows, you can easily expand the storage capacity by adding additional hard drives to the NAS, ensuring that your email server can accommodate the increasing workload.
    5. Integration with other services: The DS1812+ is not just an email server; it also offers a wide range of additional features and services. It can be integrated with other Synology applications, such as file sharing, backup, and collaboration tools. This integration provides a seamless experience and enhances productivity within your organization.
    6. Offline access: With an on-premises email server like the DS1812+, you have the advantage of accessing your emails even when the internet connection is down. This can be critical for businesses that heavily rely on email communication.
    7. Backup and disaster recovery: The DS1812+ offers built-in backup and disaster recovery features. You can easily configure regular backups of your email data, ensuring that you have a reliable backup in case of any data loss or system failure. This level of data protection is not always available with traditional email hosting services.

    Overall, using the Synology DiskStation DS1812+ as an email server provides cost-effectiveness, control, customization, scalability, integration, offline access, and robust backup options, making it a viable alternative to traditional email hosting services.

  • How does the Synology DiskStation DS1812+ handle email security and encryption to protect sensitive information?

    The Synology DiskStation DS1812+ is a network-attached storage (NAS) device that primarily focuses on storage and file sharing functionalities. It does not have built-in email server capabilities or specific features for email security and encryption.

    However, to protect sensitive information transmitted via email, you can follow general best practices for email security:

    1. Use Secure Email Protocols: Configure your email client to use secure protocols such as Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) or Transport Layer Security (TLS) for both incoming and outgoing mail. This ensures encryption of email communication between your client and the email server.
    2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Utilize 2FA for your email accounts to add an extra layer of security. This typically involves entering a verification code sent to your mobile device in addition to your password when logging in.
    3. Implement Strong Passwords: Use unique and complex passwords for your email accounts, including a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable or commonly used passwords.
    4. Regularly Update Email Client and Operating System: Keep your email client and operating system up to date with the latest security patches and updates. This helps protect against known vulnerabilities and exploits.
    5. Be Cautious of Phishing Attacks: Exercise caution when opening email attachments or clicking on links, especially from unknown or suspicious sources. Phishing emails are a common method used to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information.
    6. Utilize Email Encryption Tools: If you need to send sensitive information via email, consider using additional encryption tools such as Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) or Secure/Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions (S/MIME). These tools encrypt the content of the email, ensuring that only the intended recipient can decrypt and access the information.

    It's important to note that while the Synology DiskStation DS1812+ does not directly handle email security and encryption, it can be integrated into your overall security infrastructure by implementing network-level security measures, such as firewall rules, intrusion detection systems, and antivirus software, to protect the NAS and the data stored within it.

  • Can the Synology DiskStation DS1812+ integrate with popular email clients and support features like shared calendars, contacts, and task management?

    Yes, the Synology DiskStation DS1812+ can integrate with popular email clients and support features like shared calendars, contacts, and task management. It comes with a built-in Mail Server application that allows you to create and manage email accounts. You can configure your email client (such as Microsoft Outlook, Apple Mail, or Thunderbird) to connect to the DiskStation and access your emails.

    Additionally, the DiskStation supports CalDAV and CardDAV protocols, which enable you to synchronize calendars and contacts with various email clients and devices. This allows for shared calendars, contacts, and task management across multiple users or devices.

    Overall, the Synology DiskStation DS1812+ provides robust email server capabilities and supports integration with popular email clients and features like shared calendars, contacts, and task management.

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