RAID Controller Failure on NAS Synology FlashStation FS2017: Recovery Options and Data Recovery

RAID controller failure on ⭐ NAS: causes, consequences, and effective strategies for data recovery.

RAID Controller Failure on NAS Synology FlashStation FS2017: Recovery Options and Data Recovery

Synology FlashStation FS2017 NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from FlashStation FS2017.

RAID Controller Failure on NAS Synology FlashStation FS2017: Recovery Options and Data Recovery

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.

Are there any recommended practices for off-site backup storage to prevent complete data loss in the event of a disaster?

Yes, there are several recommended practices for off-site backup storage to prevent complete data loss in the event of a disaster. Here are some of the key practices:

  1. Regular Backups: Perform regular backups of your data to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information stored off-site. This can be done daily, weekly, or based on your organization's needs.
  2. Redundancy: Use multiple off-site backup locations or providers to ensure redundancy. If one location or provider fails, you still have another copy of your data available.
  3. Encryption: Encrypt your data before sending it to off-site storage to ensure its security and protect it from unauthorized access.
  4. Physical Security: Choose off-site backup storage locations that have strong physical security measures in place, such as controlled access, surveillance cameras, and secure storage facilities.
  5. Geographic Separation: Store your backups in geographically separate locations to minimize the risk of losing data due to regional disasters like fires, floods, or earthquakes.
  6. Test Restores: Regularly test the restoration process from your off-site backups to ensure that the data can be recovered successfully. This helps identify any issues or errors in the backup and restore process.
  7. Regular Monitoring: Monitor the backup process and ensure that backups are being performed as scheduled. Implement alert systems to notify you of any failures or issues with the backup storage.
  8. Versioning and Retention: Implement versioning and retention policies to keep multiple versions of your backups and retain them for a specific duration. This allows you to recover from different points in time and protects against data corruption or accidental deletion.
  9. Disaster Recovery Plan: Develop a comprehensive disaster recovery plan that includes the process for restoring data from off-site backups. Regularly review and update this plan to incorporate any changes in your infrastructure or business needs.
  10. Service Level Agreements (SLAs): When using off-site backup storage providers, ensure that you have clear SLAs in place. These agreements should define the level of service, data availability, and response times in case of any issues.

By following these recommended practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of complete data loss and improve your organization's ability to recover from a disaster.

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

Although NAS FlashStation FS2017 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 FlashStation FS2017. 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

FlashStation FS2017 has 24 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 FlashStation FS2017 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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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 FlashStation FS2017, 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

  • Can the NAS Synology FlashStation FS2017 be operated using Wi-Fi standard, or does it require a wired connection?

    The Synology FlashStation FS2017 does not have built-in Wi-Fi capabilities. It requires a wired connection to operate.

  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of using Wi-Fi standard for operating the NAS Synology FlashStation FS2017?

    Advantages of using Wi-Fi standard for operating the NAS Synology FlashStation FS2017:

    1. Wireless Convenience: Wi-Fi allows for easy and flexible placement of the NAS without the need for physical network cables, making it convenient to set up and use.
    2. Mobility: With Wi-Fi, you can access the NAS from any device that supports wireless connectivity, providing mobility and the ability to access data from anywhere within the Wi-Fi network range.
    3. Cost-effective: Wi-Fi eliminates the need for additional network cabling, which can reduce installation and maintenance costs.
    4. Scalability: Wi-Fi networks can be easily expanded by adding additional access points, allowing for scalability as the network requirements grow.

    Disadvantages of using Wi-Fi standard for operating the NAS Synology FlashStation FS2017:

    1. Limited Speed: Wi-Fi speeds are generally slower compared to wired connections, which can impact the data transfer rates between the NAS and connected devices.
    2. Interference: Wi-Fi signals can be affected by various sources of interference such as other electronic devices, walls, and distance, which may result in reduced signal strength and network performance.
    3. Security: Wi-Fi networks are more susceptible to unauthorized access and data breaches compared to wired networks. Proper security measures like encryption and strong passwords should be implemented to mitigate these risks.
    4. Reliability: Wi-Fi connections can be less reliable compared to wired connections, especially in areas with weak signal strength or high interference. This can lead to intermittent connectivity issues and potential data loss.
    5. Limited Range: Wi-Fi signals have a limited range, and the coverage area may be limited depending on the environment and obstacles. This can restrict the accessibility of the NAS within a specific range of the Wi-Fi network.
  • Are there any specific Wi-Fi standards or requirements that need to be met in order to ensure smooth and efficient operation of the NAS Synology FlashStation FS2017?

    Yes, there are specific Wi-Fi standards and requirements that need to be met for the NAS Synology FlashStation FS2017. However, it is important to note that the FS2017 is primarily designed for wired Ethernet connectivity rather than Wi-Fi.

    The FS2017 does not have built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, so it needs to be connected to a network using Ethernet cables. It is recommended to use Gigabit Ethernet connections for optimal performance.

    To ensure smooth and efficient operation of the FS2017, the following network requirements should be met:

    1. Network Speed: The FS2017 supports Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps) connections. Ensure that your network infrastructure, including switches, routers, and network interface cards, supports Gigabit speeds.
    2. Network Switch: Use a reliable and high-performance network switch to connect the FS2017 to the network. It is recommended to use a managed switch with support for features like link aggregation (LACP) and jumbo frames.
    3. Network Cables: Use high-quality Ethernet cables, preferably Cat 6 or Cat 6a, to connect the FS2017 to the network. Ensure that the cables are properly terminated and not damaged.
    4. IP Configuration: Configure the FS2017 with a static IP address or use DHCP to assign a fixed IP address to the NAS.
    5. Network Security: Implement appropriate security measures, such as enabling firewalls, using strong passwords, and enabling encryption protocols (e.g., SSL/TLS) for remote access.

    It is worth mentioning that while the FS2017 does not directly support Wi-Fi, you can connect it to a Wi-Fi network using a Wi-Fi bridge or an Ethernet-to-Wi-Fi adapter if necessary. However, this may introduce additional latency and potential performance limitations compared to a wired Ethernet connection.

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