NAS Synology DiskStation DS2015xs RAID Arrays: Recovering Data After Natural Component Wear

Has your NAS Synology DiskStation DS2015xs suddenly lost its network drive and you’re unsure what to do next? Did the RAID array collapse, making your files inaccessible? Is the device throwing errors during startup? Perhaps you accidentally rebuilt the RAID array or several hard drives failed at the same time?

NAS Synology DiskStation DS2015xs RAID Arrays: Recovering Data After Natural Component Wear
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Synology DiskStation DS2015xs NAS Data Recovery in 2025

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from an DiskStation DS2015xs. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

NAS Synology DiskStation DS2015xs RAID Arrays: Recovering Data After Natural Component Wear

RAID Recovery™ 2.8
Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.
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Why Regular Data Recovery Tools Can’t Restore Files from RAID

Conventional hard drives store user data by writing it sequentially across the disk surface, which means an entire file is typically located on a single drive. In contrast, when data is written to a RAID array, each file is split into multiple fragments. These fragments are then distributed and written in sequence across all the drives in the array. Depending on the configuration, fragment sizes can range from 2 KB to 2 MB, so every file is physically stored across several disks at once.

This approach significantly increases read and write performance — after all, writing two halves of a 1 GB file to two drives simultaneously is much faster than writing the full 1 GB to a single disk. However, this same mechanism makes file recovery far more complex.

Different RAID levels use different methods to distribute and protect data. On top of that, manufacturers like Synology often add their own proprietary structures and variations. As a result, data can be written to disks in many different formats, and each requires a specific approach during recovery.

Can elevation of privileges or compromised user accounts lead to data loss or unauthorized access on NAS Synology DiskStation DS2015xs devices?

Yes, elevation of privileges or compromised user accounts can potentially lead to data loss or unauthorized access on NAS Synology DiskStation DS2015xs devices. If an attacker gains elevated privileges or compromises a user account with administrative access, they can potentially gain full control over the device and its data.

With elevated privileges, an attacker can modify or delete data, install malicious software, or even take control of the entire system. They may also be able to access sensitive information stored on the NAS, such as user credentials, personal files, or confidential business data.

To mitigate this risk, it is important to follow security best practices such as regularly updating the firmware and software on the device, using strong and unique passwords, implementing two-factor authentication, and restricting access privileges to only necessary users. Regularly monitoring and reviewing user accounts and access logs can also help detect any unauthorized access or suspicious activities.

How to Remove Hard Disks from Your NAS and Connect Them to a PC

Although the NAS DiskStation DS2015xs can be accessed over the network, you still need to remove its hard disks and connect them directly to a Windows PC. Only then can the recovery software properly scan and analyze the drives. Follow these steps:

  1. Power off the NAS and disconnect it from the power source.

    WARNING! Before removing any drives, carefully read the device manual. Improper actions may damage both the NAS enclosure and the hard disks in the RAID array.

  2. Remove the hard disks one by one, gently sliding each drive out of its slot. Remember that hard disks are highly sensitive: any impact or drop can cause serious physical damage.

  3. Label each hard disk according to its position inside the NAS. The order of the drives is crucial for correct RAID reconstruction.

  4. Connect the drives to your computer. In this video, we explain which ports you can use to connect hard disks and what to do if your PC does not have enough free connectors.

    Go to view
    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

Step-by-Step Data Recovery with Hetman RAID Recovery

Hetman Raid Recovery

This program restores data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Synology DiskStation DS2015xs. Each hard disk in the array contains technical metadata describing how files were written. When launched, Hetman RAID Recovery analyzes this metadata, automatically reconstructs the damaged array, and provides access to its contents. After that, you can browse the recovered disk and save your files. The program can also restore files that were accidentally deleted from the network drive.

Go to view
How to recover data from a Synology

How to recover data from a Synology

DiskStation DS2015xs 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);

How to Safely Recover Data from Disk Images

This utility allows you to create a complete copy of a disk and work with the disk image instead of the physical drive. This approach helps protect your data from:

  • Overwriting during the recovery process;
  • Additional data loss caused by bad sectors;
  • User errors.

To create a disk image, follow these steps:

  1. Ensure you have enough free space to store the image. Its size will typically match the size of the original disk.

  2. In the main window, select the target disk and choose Tools - Save Disk. You can also select multiple disks if needed.

  3. When the Image Creation Wizard opens, select whether you want to save the entire disk or only a specific region. Adjust the settings and click Next.

    Hetman RAID Recovery: Image Creation Wizard

  4. Choose the directory where the image will be saved. You may select any available disk connected to your PC or upload the image via FTP.

    Hetman RAID Recovery: Choose a disk or save the image via FTP

Where Are the User’s Files Actually Stored?

The Synology DiskStation DS2015xs 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.

RAID Recovery Software: Detailed Comparison

Product Operating system RAID controller support Supported file systems Virtual RAID controller support Data recovery from damaged RAID File preview
Hetman RAID Recovery Windows, Linux, MacOS Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, exFAT, NTFS, ReFS, APFS, HFS+, Ext4, Ext3, Ext2, ReiserFS, Btrfs, VMFS, Hikvision, XFS, UFS, ZFS Yes Yes Yes
DiskInternals RAID Recovery Windows Yes, over 10 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
R-Studio Windows, Mac, Linux Yes, over 20 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
UFS Explorer RAID Recovery Windows, Mac, Linux Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
EaseUS Data Recovery Windows Yes, over 20 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
ReclaiMe Free RAID Recovery Windows 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 DS2015xs, 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 key features and benefits of using the NAS Synology DiskStation DS2015xs as central storage for a network?

    The key features and benefits of using the NAS Synology DiskStation DS2015xs as central storage for a network are:

    1. High Performance: The DS2015xs is equipped with a powerful Intel quad-core processor and 4GB RAM (expandable up to 8GB), ensuring fast and efficient data processing.
    2. Scalability: With support for up to 20 drives (when using two DX1215 expansion units), the DS2015xs offers ample storage capacity that can be easily expanded as the network's needs grow.
    3. Dual 10GbE Ports: The DS2015xs comes with two built-in 10GbE ports, allowing for lightning-fast data transfers and ensuring high network bandwidth.
    4. RAID Support: The DS2015xs supports various RAID configurations (including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10), providing data redundancy and protection against drive failures.
    5. Advanced Data Protection: Synology's DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system offers advanced data protection features like snapshot replication, which allows for point-in-time recovery of files and folders.
    6. Virtualization Support: The DS2015xs is compatible with major virtualization platforms such as VMware, Citrix, and Microsoft Hyper-V, making it easy to integrate into existing virtualized environments.
    7. Backup and Disaster Recovery: The DS2015xs supports various backup methods, including local backup to external drives, remote backup to other Synology NAS devices, and cloud backup to popular cloud storage providers.
    8. File Sharing and Collaboration: The DS2015xs provides comprehensive file sharing and collaboration features, including support for multiple users and groups, access control, file versioning, and integration with popular cloud storage services.
    9. High Availability: By using Synology's High Availability (SHA) technology, two DS2015xs units can be configured in a high-availability cluster, ensuring continuous access to data even in the event of hardware failure.
    10. Energy-Efficient Design: The DS2015xs is designed with energy efficiency in mind, featuring a deep sleep mode that reduces power consumption during periods of inactivity, helping to lower operating costs.

    Overall, the Synology DiskStation DS2015xs offers high performance, scalability, advanced data protection, and a wide range of features that make it an ideal choice for central storage in a network environment.

  • How does the NAS Synology DiskStation DS2015xs ensure data security and reliability when used as central storage?

    The Synology DiskStation DS2015xs ensures data security and reliability when used as central storage through several mechanisms:

    1. RAID Protection: The DS2015xs supports various RAID configurations, including RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 6, and RAID 10. These RAID levels provide data redundancy, allowing for the recovery of data in case of a hard drive failure.
    2. Hot Swappable Drives: The DS2015xs supports hot-swappable drive bays, which means that failed drives can be replaced without shutting down the system. This ensures continuous operation and minimizes downtime.
    3. Snapshot Technology: The DS2015xs supports snapshot technology, which allows users to take point-in-time copies of their data. These snapshots can be used to quickly restore files or folders in case of accidental deletion or modification.
    4. Data Encryption: The DS2015xs supports AES 256-bit encryption for shared folders, ensuring that data is securely stored and transmitted over the network.
    5. Network Security: The DS2015xs supports various network security protocols, including HTTPS, FTPS, SFTP, and IP blocking. These protocols help protect data during transmission and prevent unauthorized access to the NAS.
    6. User Access Control: The DS2015xs provides granular user access control, allowing administrators to define user permissions and access rights to shared folders. This ensures that only authorized users can access sensitive data.
    7. Active Directory Integration: The DS2015xs can integrate with an existing Active Directory infrastructure, allowing for centralized user authentication and access control.
    8. Data Backup and Replication: The DS2015xs supports various backup and replication options, including local backup to external drives, remote backup to another Synology NAS, and cloud backup to services like Amazon S3 or Glacier. These mechanisms provide additional layers of data protection and disaster recovery.
    9. Surveillance Station: The DS2015xs can also be used as a surveillance storage solution, supporting multiple IP cameras and providing real-time monitoring and recording. This enhances security by providing video surveillance capabilities.

    Overall, the DS2015xs incorporates multiple features and technologies to ensure data security and reliability, making it a suitable choice for central storage in both personal and business environments.

  • Can the NAS Synology DiskStation DS2015xs be easily integrated with existing IT infrastructure and what are the recommended best practices for setting it up as central storage in a network?

    Yes, the NAS Synology DiskStation DS2015xs can be easily integrated with existing IT infrastructure. It supports various network protocols such as SMB, AFP, NFS, FTP, and more, making it compatible with different operating systems and devices.

    To set it up as central storage in a network, here are some recommended best practices:

    1. Planning: Determine the storage requirements, expected data growth, and the number of users accessing the NAS. Consider factors like RAID configuration, disk space allocation, and backup strategies.
    2. Network Connectivity: Connect the NAS to the network using high-speed Ethernet cables. Ensure that the network infrastructure supports the required bandwidth for optimal performance.
    3. RAID Configuration: Configure the NAS with an appropriate RAID level based on your needs. RAID 5 or RAID 6 are commonly used for data redundancy and performance.
    4. User Access Control: Set up user accounts and access permissions to control who can access the NAS and what actions they can perform. Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication for added security.
    5. Shared Folders: Create shared folders on the NAS to organize and manage data. Assign appropriate access rights to users or user groups for each shared folder.
    6. Backup and Replication: Implement a backup strategy to protect your data. Configure regular backups to an external storage device or to the cloud. Utilize Synology's built-in backup and replication features for data redundancy.
    7. Security: Enable firewall and intrusion prevention features on the NAS. Keep the NAS firmware up to date to address any security vulnerabilities. Consider using VPN for remote access to the NAS.
    8. Monitoring and Maintenance: Set up system monitoring to receive alerts for any potential issues. Regularly check for firmware updates and apply them as necessary. Perform regular disk checks and replace any failing drives promptly.
    9. Integration with Existing Services: The Synology DiskStation DS2015xs supports integration with various services like Active Directory, LDAP, and cloud storage providers. Configure these integrations as required to streamline user management and data access.
    10. Documentation and Training: Document the NAS setup and configuration for future reference. Provide training to users on how to access and utilize the central storage effectively.

    It is recommended to consult the Synology DiskStation DS2015xs documentation and seek professional assistance if needed to ensure a seamless integration and optimal setup.
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