How to Recover Data from NAS Synology DiskStation DS718+ RAID Arrays: Coping with Natural Component Wear

Natural component wear in ⭐ NAS RAID arrays can lead to data loss. Here’s how to recover.

How to Recover Data from NAS Synology DiskStation DS718+ RAID Arrays: Coping with Natural Component Wear

Synology DiskStation DS718+ 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 DS718+.

How to Recover Data from NAS Synology DiskStation DS718+ RAID Arrays: Coping with Natural 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 regular disk health monitoring and analysis help in preventing potential data loss on NAS Synology DiskStation DS718+ devices?

Regular disk health monitoring and analysis can help in preventing potential data loss on NAS Synology DiskStation DS718+ devices in the following ways:

  1. Early detection of disk failures: Disk health monitoring tools can regularly scan the disks for any signs of deterioration or potential failures. By monitoring the SMART (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) data of the disks, these tools can identify issues such as bad sectors, high temperature, or abnormal operating conditions. This early detection allows you to proactively replace the failing disk before it completely fails and causes data loss.
  2. RAID array integrity: Synology DiskStation DS718+ supports various RAID configurations for data redundancy and protection. Regular disk health monitoring ensures that all the disks in the RAID array are functioning properly and are synchronized. It helps identify any inconsistencies or degraded performance in the RAID array, allowing you to take corrective actions to prevent data loss.
  3. Disk usage and capacity planning: Monitoring disk health also provides insights into the overall disk usage and capacity of the NAS. By analyzing the data, you can identify any potential capacity issues or disk space constraints. This allows you to take necessary actions such as adding more disks or expanding storage capacity to avoid running out of space and potential data loss due to insufficient storage.
  4. Proactive disk replacement: Disk health monitoring tools can provide alerts and notifications when a disk shows signs of failure or degradation. This enables you to replace the failing disk proactively, minimizing the risk of data loss. By having spare disks ready and monitoring the health status, you can ensure that your data remains protected and accessible.
  5. Data backup and recovery: Regular disk health monitoring complements data backup strategies. By monitoring the health of the disks, you can ensure that your backup processes are running smoothly and that the backup copies are not compromised. In case of a disk failure, having a recent backup can significantly reduce the impact of data loss and aid in the recovery process.

Overall, regular disk health monitoring and analysis provide proactive insights into the health and performance of the disks in NAS Synology DiskStation DS718+ devices. It helps in identifying potential issues, taking preventive measures, and ensuring the safety and availability of your data.

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

Although NAS DiskStation DS718+ 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 DS718+. 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 DS718+ has 2 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • Synology Hybrid RAID;
  • 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 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 DS718+ 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 DS718+, 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 of the Synology DiskStation DS718+ that make it suitable for storing video game data?

    The Synology DiskStation DS718+ has several key features that make it suitable for storing video game data:

    1. High-performance Processor: The DS718+ is equipped with a powerful Intel Celeron J3455 quad-core 1.5 GHz processor (up to 2.3 GHz with burst frequency) and 2GB or 4GB DDR3L RAM (expandable up to 6GB). This ensures fast and efficient data processing, which is crucial for gaming.
    2. Dual Drive Bays: The DS718+ has two drive bays that support 3.5" SATA HDDs or 2.5" SATA HDDs/SSDs. This allows for ample storage capacity to store large game files, expansions, patches, and other game-related data.
    3. RAID Support: The DiskStation DS718+ supports various RAID configurations, including RAID 0, 1, JBOD, and Synology Hybrid RAID (SHR). RAID provides data redundancy and protection against drive failure, ensuring your game data remains safe and accessible.
    4. Scalability: The DS718+ supports expansion units, allowing you to increase storage capacity as your gaming library grows. You can connect up to seven additional drives using the Synology DX517 expansion unit, providing ample room for future game installations.
    5. High-speed Connectivity: The DS718+ features two Gigabit Ethernet ports, enabling fast data transfer speeds and seamless streaming of game data. It also supports Link Aggregation and Failover for enhanced network performance and reliability.
    6. Versatile File Sharing: With Synology's DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system, the DS718+ offers various file sharing protocols, including SMB, AFP, NFS, FTP, and WebDAV. This allows you to easily share game data with other devices on your network or even remotely access it.
    7. Media Server Capabilities: The DS718+ can function as a media server, allowing you to stream game videos, screenshots, and other multimedia content to compatible devices such as gaming consoles, smart TVs, or mobile devices.
    8. Backup and Sync: Synology's DSM provides comprehensive backup and synchronization solutions. You can schedule regular backups of your game data to external drives or cloud storage services, ensuring you never lose your progress or valuable game files.
    9. Application Ecosystem: The DS718+ supports a wide range of third-party applications through Synology's Package Center. This includes game-related applications like game servers, voice chat servers, and media management tools, enhancing your gaming experience.

    Overall, the Synology DiskStation DS718+ offers a combination of high-performance hardware, flexible storage options, data protection features, and versatile software capabilities that make it an ideal choice for storing video game data.

  • How does the Synology DiskStation DS718+ ensure data security and reliability for video game storage?

    The Synology DiskStation DS718+ ensures data security and reliability for video game storage through various features and technologies:

    1. RAID Protection: The DS718+ supports various RAID configurations, including RAID 1, which duplicates data across two drives for redundancy. This protects against drive failures and ensures data integrity.
    2. Btrfs File System: The DS718+ utilizes the Btrfs file system, which provides advanced data integrity and protection features like data checksums, metadata mirroring, and automatic error correction.
    3. Snapshot Replication: This feature allows you to take point-in-time snapshots of your game data, creating a backup that can be easily restored in case of accidental deletion, modification, or ransomware attacks.
    4. AES 256-bit Encryption: The DS718+ supports hardware-accelerated AES 256-bit encryption, ensuring that your game data is securely stored and inaccessible to unauthorized users.
    5. Network Security: The DiskStation offers various network security measures, including firewall, IP blocking, and automatic blocking of suspicious IP addresses to prevent unauthorized access.
    6. User Access Control: You can create user accounts with specific permissions and access rights, allowing you to control who can access and modify the game data stored on the DS718+.
    7. Cloud Backup and Sync: The DS718+ integrates with various cloud backup services like Synology C2 Backup or third-party providers, allowing you to create off-site backups for additional data protection.
    8. Surveillance Station: If you are using the DS718+ for video game storage that includes game footage or live streaming, the built-in Surveillance Station can provide security features like motion detection, event recording, and remote access.

    These features collectively ensure that your video game data stored on the Synology DiskStation DS718+ is protected, reliable, and easily recoverable in case of any data loss or security threats.

  • Can the Synology DiskStation DS718+ be easily integrated with gaming consoles or PCs to access and manage video game data efficiently?

    Yes, the Synology DiskStation DS718+ can be easily integrated with gaming consoles or PCs to access and manage video game data efficiently. The DS718+ is a network-attached storage (NAS) device that allows you to store and manage large amounts of data, including video game files.

    By connecting the DS718+ to your gaming console or PC, you can access and transfer game data quickly and efficiently. The DS718+ supports various file sharing protocols such as SMB, FTP, and NFS, making it compatible with different gaming platforms and operating systems.

    Additionally, the DS718+ offers features like RAID support, which provides data redundancy and protection against drive failures. This ensures that your game data is safe and accessible even if a hard drive fails. The device also supports advanced file management and sharing features, allowing you to organize and share your game files easily.

    Overall, the DS718+ is a powerful and versatile NAS device that can enhance your gaming experience by providing efficient access and management of video game data.

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