NAS Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j RAID Arrays: Data Recovery Steps for Handling Component Wear

Understand natural component wear in ⭐ NAS RAID arrays and how it affects data recovery efforts.

NAS Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j RAID Arrays: Data Recovery Steps for Handling Component Wear

Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j 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 DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j.

NAS Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j RAID Arrays: Data Recovery Steps for Handling Component Wear

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 DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j devices?

File system corruption can have several impacts on data integrity on NAS Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j devices:

  1. Data Loss: File system corruption can lead to the loss of data stored on the NAS device. This can happen if the corruption affects critical system files or if the corruption prevents proper access to the stored data.
  2. Inaccessibility: Corrupted file systems can make it difficult or impossible to access the data stored on the NAS device. This can result in the loss of important files and documents.
  3. Data Corruption: File system corruption can also lead to data corruption, where the stored files become unreadable or contain errors. This can render the data useless or result in the loss of important information.
  4. Unreliable backups: NAS devices often provide backup functionality, allowing users to create backups of their data. However, if the file system on the NAS device is corrupted, the backups may also be affected, rendering them unreliable or useless.
  5. System Instability: File system corruption can cause the NAS device to become unstable, leading to frequent system crashes, freezes, or other performance issues. This can further impact the integrity of the data stored on the device.

To mitigate the impact of file system corruption on data integrity, it is recommended to:

  1. Regularly backup data: Implement a regular backup strategy to ensure that important data is stored in multiple locations, reducing the risk of complete data loss.
  2. Use RAID or redundancy: Employ RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) or other redundancy mechanisms to protect against data loss in case of file system corruption or hardware failures.
  3. Implement data integrity checks: Enable data integrity checks, such as periodic filesystem scans or checksum verification, to detect and correct any file system corruption issues early on.
  4. Keep the NAS firmware up to date: Regularly update the NAS firmware to ensure that any known file system corruption issues are addressed by the manufacturer.
  5. Monitor and maintain the NAS device: Regularly monitor the NAS device for any signs of file system corruption or degradation and promptly address any issues that arise.

By following these measures, you can minimize the impact of file system corruption on data integrity on NAS Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j devices.

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

Although NAS DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j 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 DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j. 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 DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j has 2 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • Synology Hybrid RAID;
  • RAID 1;
  • RAID 0;
  • Basic;
  • JBOD;

NAS supports:

  • EXT4;
  • EXT3;
  • FAT32 (External Disk Only);
  • NTFS (External Disk 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 DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j 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 DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j, 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 DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j as central storage for a home or small office network?

    The key features and benefits of using the NAS Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j as central storage for a home or small office network are:

    1. Storage Capacity: The DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j offers ample storage capacity, allowing you to store and access all your files, documents, multimedia content, and backups in one central location.
    2. Data Protection: It provides various data protection features like RAID support, which ensures data redundancy and protects against drive failures. Additionally, it supports scheduled backups to external devices or cloud services, ensuring your data is always safe and secure.
    3. Easy File Sharing: The NAS allows seamless file sharing across multiple devices and platforms. It supports various file sharing protocols like SMB, AFP, FTP, and WebDAV, making it compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux systems.
    4. Remote Access and Mobile Apps: Synology offers a range of mobile apps and remote access features, allowing you to access your files and manage the NAS from anywhere using smartphones, tablets, or computers.
    5. Media Streaming: The DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j acts as a media server, enabling you to stream multimedia content to smart TVs, media players, or mobile devices. It supports popular streaming protocols like DLNA, AirPlay, and Chromecast, enhancing your media consumption experience.
    6. Surveillance Station: Synology NAS devices come with built-in surveillance station software, which allows you to use IP cameras and record, monitor, and manage your security footage from a single interface.
    7. Energy Efficiency: The NAS is designed to be energy-efficient, consuming less power compared to traditional servers or PCs. It supports scheduled power on/off, disk hibernation, and Wake-on-LAN, reducing energy costs and environmental impact.
    8. Expandability and Add-on Packages: Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j supports expandable storage capacity by adding additional hard drives or connecting external storage devices. It also offers a wide range of add-on packages like VPN server, mail server, web server, etc., allowing you to customize and extend the functionality of the NAS according to your needs.

    Overall, using the NAS Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j as central storage provides a reliable, secure, and efficient solution for managing and accessing your data in a home or small office network.

  • How does the Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j provide data protection and backup options for centralized storage?

    The Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j provides data protection and backup options for centralized storage through various features and technologies. Here are some of the key ways it ensures data protection and backup:

    1. RAID Support: All three models support RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) configurations, including RAID 0, RAID 1, JBOD, and Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR). RAID helps protect data by distributing it across multiple drives, providing redundancy in case of drive failures.
    2. Disk Redundancy: By using RAID 1 or SHR, the DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j can duplicate data across two drives, ensuring that if one drive fails, the data remains accessible from the other drive.
    3. Snapshot Replication: This feature allows users to take point-in-time snapshots of their data, capturing the state of the files and folders at a specific moment. These snapshots can be replicated to another DiskStation or stored on an external drive, providing an additional layer of protection against accidental deletion or modification of files.
    4. Backup to External Drives: The DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j supports backing up data to external hard drives or USB drives connected to the NAS. This allows users to create copies of their important files and folders, which can be stored off-site for disaster recovery purposes.
    5. Cloud Backup: Synology NAS devices integrate with various cloud backup services, such as Synology C2, Amazon S3, Backblaze B2, and more. This enables users to back up their data to the cloud, providing an off-site backup solution for added protection.
    6. Network Backup: The DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j can act as a backup destination for other devices on the network. It supports various backup protocols like rsync, FTP, and more, allowing users to schedule regular backups of their computers, servers, or other NAS devices to the DiskStation.
    7. Data Scrubbing and SMART: The NAS devices support data scrubbing, which periodically checks the integrity of data stored on the drives and repairs any inconsistencies. Additionally, they also monitor the health of the drives using SMART (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology), alerting users to potential drive failures in advance.

    Overall, the Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j offers a range of data protection and backup options, combining hardware redundancy, snapshot replication, external drive backups, cloud backups, and network backups to ensure centralized storage with comprehensive data protection.

  • Can the Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j be accessed remotely, and what are the security measures in place to ensure data privacy and protection when accessing files remotely?

    Yes, the Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j can be accessed remotely. Synology provides several methods to access files remotely, including:

    1. Synology QuickConnect: This feature allows users to access their DiskStation using a unique customizable URL without the need for complex router configurations or dynamic DNS setup.
    2. Synology DDNS: Users can register a domain name with Synology's DDNS service to access their DiskStation using a personalized domain name.
    3. Virtual Private Network (VPN): Synology supports various VPN protocols, such as OpenVPN, to establish a secure connection between remote devices and the DiskStation.

    To ensure data privacy and protection when accessing files remotely, Synology implements several security measures:

    1. HTTPS: All remote connections to the DiskStation are encrypted using HTTPS, ensuring secure data transmission between the client and the DiskStation.
    2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Synology supports 2FA, which adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of authentication, such as a verification code from a mobile app, in addition to the password.
    3. Firewall and IP Blocking: Synology's built-in firewall and IP blocking features allow users to specify which IP addresses or IP ranges are allowed or denied access to the DiskStation.
    4. Advanced Folder Permissions: Users can set granular access permissions for shared folders, controlling who can read, write, or modify files remotely.
    5. Encryption: Synology supports on-the-fly encryption for shared folders, ensuring that data stored on the DiskStation remains secure even if the physical drives are stolen.
    6. Antivirus and Malware Protection: Synology provides an integrated antivirus solution to scan files for potential threats, protecting the DiskStation from malware and viruses.

    These security measures help ensure data privacy and protection when accessing files remotely on the Synology DiskStation DS211+ / DS211 / DS211j.

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