NAS Synology DiskStation DS3612xs RAID Controller Failure: Causes, Recovery Solutions, and Consequences

RAID controller failure on ⭐ NAS: causes, consequences, and how to recover your data effectively.

NAS Synology DiskStation DS3612xs RAID Controller Failure: Causes, Recovery Solutions, and Consequences

Synology DiskStation DS3612xs 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 DS3612xs.

NAS Synology DiskStation DS3612xs RAID Controller Failure: Causes, Recovery Solutions, and Consequences

RAID Recovery™ 2.6
Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.
Download

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.

Are there any common mistakes or oversights made by users that can lead to data loss on NAS Synology DiskStation DS3612xs devices?

Yes, there are several common mistakes or oversights made by users that can lead to data loss on NAS Synology DiskStation DS3612xs devices. Some of them include:

  1. Lack of proper backup: Many users rely solely on their NAS device for data storage without maintaining a proper backup. This can be risky as any hardware failure, accidental deletion, or ransomware attack can result in permanent data loss.
  2. Failure to update firmware: Neglecting to update the firmware of the NAS device can expose it to security vulnerabilities. Hackers can exploit these vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access and potentially delete or corrupt data.
  3. Inadequate security measures: Weak or default passwords, disabled firewall, or open network ports can make the NAS device vulnerable to unauthorized access or malware attacks. This can lead to data loss or compromise.
  4. Ignoring disk health monitoring: DiskStation devices provide disk health monitoring features that can alert users about potential disk failures. Ignoring these warnings can result in complete data loss if a disk fails.
  5. Improper shutdown or power loss: Abruptly shutting down the NAS device or experiencing a power loss while it is in use can cause data corruption or loss. It is important to properly shut down the device or use an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to prevent such issues.
  6. Accidental deletion or formatting: Users may accidentally delete or format important files or folders on the NAS device. Without a proper backup, recovering such data can be challenging or even impossible.

To mitigate the risk of data loss, users should regularly backup their data, keep the firmware up to date, implement strong security measures, monitor disk health, follow proper shutdown procedures, and exercise caution while handling data on the NAS device.

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

Although NAS DiskStation DS3612xs 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 DS3612xs. 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 DS3612xs has 12 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 DS3612xs 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

Feedback

We will be happy to answer your questions!

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 DS3612xs, feel free to leave a comment!
Post comment
User
Leave a reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

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.

Share

Questions and answers

  • How does the Synology DiskStation DS3612xs perform as a database server compared to traditional server solutions?

    The Synology DiskStation DS3612xs is primarily designed as a network-attached storage (NAS) device rather than a dedicated database server. However, it can still function as a database server for small to medium-sized businesses or for non-critical database applications.

    Compared to traditional server solutions, the DS3612xs may not offer the same level of performance or scalability. Traditional server solutions often have more powerful hardware configurations, such as higher-end processors, more RAM, and faster storage options. These features enable them to handle larger workloads and more concurrent database connections.

    Additionally, traditional server solutions may have advanced features like hardware RAID controllers, redundant power supplies, and remote management capabilities, which are not typically found in NAS devices like the DS3612xs.

    However, the DS3612xs does have some advantages as a database server. It offers a user-friendly web-based interface and easy-to-use software, making it simple to set up and manage. It also supports multiple database types, including MySQL, MariaDB, and PostgreSQL, allowing for flexibility in application development.

    The DS3612xs can handle moderate database workloads and is suitable for small businesses or departments with limited database requirements. However, for larger or more demanding database applications, a traditional server solution with higher-end hardware would generally be a better choice.

  • What are the advantages and limitations of using the Synology DiskStation DS3612xs as a database server for small to medium-sized businesses?

    Advantages of using the Synology DiskStation DS3612xs as a database server for small to medium-sized businesses:

    1. Cost-effective: The DS3612xs offers a cost-effective solution compared to traditional database servers, as it combines storage and server capabilities in a single device.
    2. Scalability: With support for up to 36 hard drives, the DS3612xs allows for significant storage expansion as the business grows. It can handle large databases and accommodate increasing data needs.
    3. High-performance: The DS3612xs is equipped with a powerful processor and ample memory, enabling it to handle intensive database workloads and deliver fast performance.
    4. Data protection: Synology DiskStations come with various data protection features like RAID configurations, snapshot technology, and backup solutions. These ensure the safety and integrity of the business's critical data.
    5. Ease of use: Synology DiskStations have a user-friendly interface and intuitive management software, making it easy for businesses without dedicated IT staff to set up and manage their database server.

    Limitations of using the Synology DiskStation DS3612xs as a database server for small to medium-sized businesses:

    1. Limited processing power: While the DS3612xs offers decent performance for small to medium-sized businesses, it may not be suitable for extremely demanding database workloads or high-transaction environments.
    2. Network bandwidth limitations: The DS3612xs relies on the network for communication, so the overall performance may be affected by network bottlenecks or limited bandwidth.
    3. Lack of specialized support: Synology DiskStations are primarily designed for file storage and general-purpose server applications. Businesses requiring specialized database support or advanced database management features may need to consider dedicated database server solutions.
    4. Limited expansion options: While the DS3612xs supports a significant number of hard drives, it may lack the flexibility to add additional hardware components or upgrade specific components to meet evolving business needs.
    5. Reliance on Synology software: The DS3612xs relies on Synology's software ecosystem, which may limit the availability of certain database management tools or features that are commonly found in dedicated database server solutions.
  • Can the Synology DiskStation DS3612xs handle high-performance database workloads and provide reliable data storage for critical applications?

    Yes, the Synology DiskStation DS3612xs is designed to handle high-performance database workloads and provide reliable data storage for critical applications. It features a powerful processor, ample memory, and multiple drive bays for high-capacity storage. Additionally, it supports advanced RAID configurations, data protection features, and can be integrated with various database management systems.

Hello! This is AI-based Hetman Software virtual assistant, and it will answer any of your questions right away.
Start Chat