Recovering Data from NAS Synology DiskStation DS916+ RAID Arrays: Recovering from Component Wear

Data recovery from ⭐ NAS RAID arrays after natural component wear: comprehensive recovery techniques.

Recovering Data from NAS Synology DiskStation DS916+ RAID Arrays: Recovering from Component Wear

Synology DiskStation DS916+ 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 DS916+.

Recovering Data from NAS Synology DiskStation DS916+ RAID Arrays: Recovering from 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 a NAS Synology DiskStation DS916+ device's power management settings impact data availability and potential loss?

The power management settings on a NAS Synology DiskStation DS916+ device can impact data availability and potential loss in several ways:

  1. Sleep Mode: Enabling sleep mode on the device allows it to enter a low-power state when not in use. While this helps in reducing power consumption, it can also result in increased latency when accessing data. If the device goes into sleep mode frequently, it may cause delays when trying to access files, which can impact data availability.
  2. Hibernation: Similar to sleep mode, hibernation mode allows the device to enter a deeper sleep state after a specified period of inactivity. While this further reduces power consumption, it also means that the device takes longer to wake up and become accessible. If the device is frequently hibernating, it can significantly impact data availability and access speed.
  3. Scheduled Power On/Off: Some NAS devices allow users to schedule automatic power on/off times. While this can be useful for saving power during non-working hours, it can also result in data unavailability if the device is powered off when needed. If critical data is required outside the scheduled power-on hours, it may lead to potential data loss or downtime.
  4. UPS Integration: Power management settings should also include integration with an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). In case of a power outage, a UPS can provide temporary power to the NAS device, allowing it to shut down properly. Without UPS integration, sudden power loss can lead to data corruption or loss.

To mitigate the impact on data availability and potential loss, it is important to carefully configure power management settings based on the specific requirements of data access and availability. This may involve finding a balance between power savings and maintaining an acceptable level of data accessibility. Additionally, implementing a reliable backup strategy can help mitigate potential data loss risks.

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

Although NAS DiskStation DS916+ 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 DS916+. 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 DS916+ has 4 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 DS916+ 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 DS916+, 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 virtualization features offered by the NAS Synology DiskStation DS916+?

    The Synology DiskStation DS916+ offers several key virtualization features, including:

    1. Virtual Machine Manager (VMM): This feature allows you to run multiple virtual machines (VMs) on the NAS. It supports various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and more.
    2. Snapshot Replication: This feature enables you to take point-in-time snapshots of your VMs, allowing you to easily revert to a previous state if needed.
    3. Live Migration: With this feature, you can migrate running VMs from one Synology NAS to another without any interruption, ensuring high availability and flexibility.
    4. High Availability: The DS916+ supports high availability, allowing you to set up a failover cluster with another Synology NAS. In the event of a hardware failure, the VMs will automatically switch to the backup NAS to minimize downtime.
    5. Virtual Machine Backup: You can back up your VMs to external storage devices or remote servers using various backup applications supported by the DS916+, ensuring data protection and disaster recovery.
    6. Virtual Switch: The DS916+ includes a virtual switch that enables you to create isolated virtual networks for your VMs, providing enhanced network security and flexibility.

    These virtualization features make the Synology DiskStation DS916+ a powerful and versatile NAS solution for running virtual machines and managing virtualized environments.

  • How does the virtualization feature of the NAS Synology DiskStation DS916+ enhance its performance and functionality?

    The virtualization feature of the NAS Synology DiskStation DS916+ enhances its performance and functionality in several ways:

    1. Running Multiple Operating Systems: The virtualization feature allows users to run multiple virtual machines (VMs) on the NAS. This means that different operating systems, such as Windows, Linux, or macOS, can be installed and run simultaneously on the same device. This enables users to consolidate their IT infrastructure and run various applications and services on a single NAS, reducing the need for multiple physical servers.
    2. Resource Optimization: By running multiple VMs on a single NAS, users can optimize resource utilization. The NAS can allocate CPU, memory, and storage resources to each virtual machine as needed, ensuring efficient utilization of hardware resources. This helps in maximizing the performance of each VM and overall system efficiency.
    3. Easy Management and Deployment: The virtualization feature provides an intuitive and user-friendly interface for managing and deploying virtual machines. Users can create, clone, and manage VMs easily through the NAS's web-based interface. This simplifies the process of setting up and managing virtual environments, making it accessible even to users without advanced IT knowledge.
    4. Snapshot and Backup Capabilities: The virtualization feature often includes snapshot and backup functionalities. Users can take snapshots of VMs at specific points in time, allowing them to revert to a previous state if needed. Additionally, backup and restore options enable users to protect their virtual machines and data, ensuring business continuity and data integrity.
    5. Increased Flexibility and Scalability: Virtualization allows users to scale their IT infrastructure easily. With the NAS's virtualization feature, users can add or remove virtual machines as needed, without the need for additional physical servers. This flexibility enables businesses to adapt to changing needs and easily expand their IT capabilities without significant investments in hardware.

    Overall, the virtualization feature of the NAS Synology DiskStation DS916+ enhances performance and functionality by enabling the consolidation of IT infrastructure, optimizing resource utilization, simplifying management, providing snapshot and backup capabilities, and offering flexibility and scalability.

  • Can you provide examples of how businesses can benefit from the virtualization capabilities of the NAS Synology DiskStation DS916+?

    Certainly! Here are a few examples of how businesses can benefit from the virtualization capabilities of the Synology DiskStation DS916+:

    1. Server Consolidation: The DS916+ allows businesses to consolidate multiple physical servers into a single virtualized environment. By running multiple virtual machines (VMs) on the NAS, businesses can reduce hardware costs, power consumption, and overall maintenance efforts.
    2. Disaster Recovery: The DS916+ supports various virtualization technologies such as VMware vSphere, Microsoft Hyper-V, and Citrix XenServer. By creating VMs on the NAS, businesses can easily replicate and migrate their critical workloads for disaster recovery purposes. This ensures business continuity and minimizes downtime in case of hardware failures or natural disasters.
    3. Testing and Development: The DS916+ provides a cost-effective platform for testing and development environments. Businesses can create multiple VMs to test new software, applications, or system configurations without the need for additional physical hardware. This allows for more efficient and flexible development cycles.
    4. Remote Access and Collaboration: With the DS916+, businesses can create virtualized desktop environments using technologies like Virtual Machine Manager (VMM). This enables employees to access their work desktops remotely, collaborate on projects, and securely share files and resources. It enhances productivity, facilitates remote work, and simplifies IT management.
    5. Resource Optimization: The DS916+ allows businesses to dynamically allocate system resources such as CPU, memory, and storage to different VMs as needed. This flexibility ensures efficient resource utilization, prevents resource bottlenecks, and optimizes overall performance.
    6. Scalability and Flexibility: As business needs grow, the DS916+ can easily accommodate the addition of more VMs or expand storage capacity. It supports up to 9 drives (with expansion units) and offers various RAID configurations. This scalability and flexibility allow businesses to adapt their virtualized environments to changing requirements without significant hardware investments.

    It's important to note that while the Synology DiskStation DS916+ provides virtualization capabilities, the actual benefits for a business may vary depending on their specific use cases, requirements, and IT infrastructure.

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