NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ RAID Arrays: Data Recovery Approaches After Component Wear

Data recovery from ⭐ NAS RAID arrays after natural component wear: best practices.

NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ RAID Arrays: Data Recovery Approaches After Component Wear

Synology ioSafe 220+ NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from ioSafe 220+.

NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ RAID Arrays: Data Recovery Approaches After 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.

Can regular data integrity checks help prevent data loss in NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ devices?

Yes, regular data integrity checks can help prevent data loss in NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ devices. Data integrity checks involve verifying the consistency and accuracy of data stored on the device. By regularly performing these checks, you can identify and correct any potential data corruption or errors before they lead to data loss.

Synology NAS devices offer various data integrity features, such as data scrubbing and RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) technologies, which can help detect and repair data inconsistencies. Data scrubbing involves periodically scanning the data stored on the NAS to identify and repair any errors or inconsistencies. RAID configurations, such as RAID 1 (mirroring), provide redundancy by storing data on multiple drives, allowing for data recovery in case of drive failures.

Regularly scheduling and performing data integrity checks, along with utilizing RAID and other built-in features, can significantly reduce the risk of data loss on NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ devices. Additionally, it's crucial to maintain proper backup strategies to ensure data protection in case of catastrophic events or multiple drive failures.

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

Although NAS ioSafe 220+ 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 ioSafe 220+. 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

ioSafe 220+ 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 ioSafe 220+ 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 ioSafe 220+, 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 advantages of using a NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ over regular external hard drives in terms of data security and protection?

    Using a NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ over regular external hard drives offers several advantages in terms of data security and protection. Some of these advantages include:

    1. Disaster-proof design: The ioSafe 220+ is built with a fireproof and waterproof enclosure, providing protection against natural disasters such as fires and floods. This ensures that your data remains safe even in extreme situations.
    2. Data redundancy: The ioSafe 220+ supports RAID configurations, allowing you to create redundant copies of your data across multiple hard drives. In case of a drive failure, your data remains accessible and protected.
    3. Network accessibility: Unlike regular external hard drives, the ioSafe 220+ is a network-attached storage (NAS) device. This means that it can be connected to your local network, allowing multiple users to access and share files simultaneously. It also enables remote access to your data, providing flexibility and convenience.
    4. Data encryption: The ioSafe 220+ supports hardware-based encryption, ensuring that your data is protected from unauthorized access. This is especially important when storing sensitive or confidential information.
    5. Data backup and synchronization: The ioSafe 220+ comes with built-in backup and synchronization features. You can schedule automatic backups of your data to external drives or cloud storage services, providing an additional layer of protection against data loss.
    6. Scalability: The ioSafe 220+ offers the flexibility to expand storage capacity as your needs grow. You can easily add additional hard drives to the device, allowing you to accommodate larger amounts of data without the need to purchase new external drives.

    Overall, the ioSafe 220+ provides enhanced data security and protection compared to regular external hard drives, making it a reliable solution for individuals and businesses looking to safeguard their valuable data.

  • How does a NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ provide better accessibility and convenience compared to traditional external hard drives?

    The NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ provides better accessibility and convenience compared to traditional external hard drives in several ways:

    1. Network Accessibility: The ioSafe 220+ is a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device, which means it connects directly to your network router. This allows multiple devices on the same network to access and share files simultaneously. In contrast, traditional external hard drives typically connect to a single computer via USB, limiting accessibility to that specific device.
    2. Remote Access: With the ioSafe 220+, you can access your files remotely from anywhere with an internet connection. This is particularly useful for accessing files when you are away from home or the office. Traditional external hard drives require physical connection to the computer they are connected to, making remote access impossible.
    3. Centralized Storage: The ioSafe 220+ acts as a centralized storage solution for all your devices. You can store and access files from various devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets, without the need to transfer files between devices or carry the external hard drive with you. Traditional external hard drives require physically connecting and disconnecting them from different devices to access files.
    4. Data Redundancy and Protection: The ioSafe 220+ offers data redundancy and protection features such as RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) configurations, which can help protect your data from drive failures. It also supports automatic backups and synchronization, ensuring your data is safely stored and protected. Traditional external hard drives do not typically offer these built-in data protection features.
    5. Expandable Storage: The ioSafe 220+ allows for easy expansion of storage capacity by adding additional hard drives to its available drive bays. This enables you to increase storage space without having to purchase a new device. Traditional external hard drives have fixed storage capacities and require purchasing additional drives if more space is needed.

    Overall, the NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ provides better accessibility and convenience by offering network accessibility, remote access, centralized storage, data redundancy and protection, and expandable storage options compared to traditional external hard drives.

  • In what ways does a NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ offer enhanced data management and collaboration features that are not available with regular external hard drives?

    The NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ offers several enhanced data management and collaboration features that are not available with regular external hard drives. Some of these features include:

    1. Centralized storage: The NAS provides a centralized storage solution where multiple users can access and store their data in one location. This allows for better organization and easier management of files.
    2. User and group permissions: The NAS allows administrators to assign specific access permissions to individual users or groups. This ensures that only authorized users can access certain files or folders, enhancing security and control over data.
    3. File sharing and syncing: The NAS enables easy file sharing and syncing between multiple devices and users. It supports various protocols like SMB, FTP, and WebDAV, allowing seamless collaboration and file access from anywhere.
    4. Version control and file history: The NAS offers version control, allowing users to track and revert to previous versions of files. It also keeps a history of file changes, enabling users to review and restore previous versions if required.
    5. Data backup and recovery: The NAS provides built-in backup and recovery features, allowing users to schedule automatic backups of their data. In case of data loss or accidental deletion, users can easily restore their files from the backup.
    6. RAID support: The NAS supports various RAID configurations, providing data redundancy and protection against drive failures. This ensures that data remains accessible even if one or more drives fail.
    7. Remote access and mobile apps: The NAS offers remote access capabilities, allowing users to access their files and collaborate remotely. Additionally, mobile apps provided by Synology enable users to access and manage their data using smartphones or tablets.
    8. Additional applications: The NAS supports a wide range of additional applications that enhance data management and collaboration. These include document management systems, multimedia servers, email servers, and more, expanding the functionality of the device beyond just storage.

    Overall, the NAS Synology ioSafe 220+ offers a comprehensive set of features that go beyond basic external hard drives, enabling enhanced data management, collaboration, security, and accessibility.

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