How to recover data from Synology RackStation RS18016xs+ NAS

Is your network drive gone, and you are wondering what to do? Has a RAID system crashed, and your files are no longer accessible? Does your device display an error while booting? Have you accidentally rebuilt your RAID system? Are several hard disks out of order?

How to recover data from NAS Synology RackStation RS18016xs+

Synology RackStation RS18016xs+ NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from RackStation RS18016xs+.

How to recover data from NAS Synology RackStation RS18016xs+

Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.

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 a failed RAID rebuild process lead to data loss on NAS Synology RackStation RS18016xs+ devices?

Yes, a failed RAID rebuild process can potentially lead to data loss on NAS Synology RackStation RS18016xs+ devices. During a RAID rebuild, the system attempts to restore data by reconstructing the missing or damaged data from the remaining drives in the RAID array. If the rebuild process fails, it could result in further data corruption or loss. It is always recommended to have a backup of important data to minimize the risk of data loss in such situations.

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

Although NAS RackStation RS18016xs+ 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 RackStation RS18016xs+. 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

RackStation RS18016xs+ 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 RackStation RS18016xs+ 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 RackStation RS18016xs+, 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 and specifications of the Synology RackStation RS18016xs+ that make it suitable for internet access?

    The Synology RackStation RS18016xs+ is a high-performance, scalable, and reliable network-attached storage (NAS) solution designed for enterprise-level applications, including internet access. Some key features and specifications that make it suitable for internet access are:

    1. Scalability: The RS18016xs+ supports up to 180 drives with the ability to expand storage capacity as per requirements. This scalability allows for accommodating large amounts of data and handling increased internet traffic.
    2. High Performance: It is powered by a quad-core Intel Xeon processor and comes with 8GB DDR3 ECC RAM (expandable up to 32GB). This hardware configuration enables fast data processing and efficient handling of internet traffic.
    3. Multiple Network Ports: The RS18016xs+ includes four Gigabit Ethernet ports and supports Link Aggregation and Failover. This allows for increased network bandwidth and redundancy, ensuring uninterrupted internet access.
    4. High Availability: It supports Synology High Availability (SHA) technology, which provides seamless transition between multiple RS18016xs+ units in the event of hardware failure. This ensures continuous internet access without any downtime.
    5. RAID Support: The NAS supports various RAID configurations, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10, providing data protection and redundancy. This is crucial for internet access as it ensures data integrity and availability.
    6. Virtualization Support: The RS18016xs+ is compatible with virtualization technologies such as VMware, Citrix, and Microsoft Hyper-V. This allows for efficient utilization of resources and enables the deployment of virtual machines for internet-related applications.
    7. Advanced Data Protection: It offers advanced data protection features like snapshot replication, backup, and restoration. These features help in safeguarding internet-related data and ensuring quick recovery in case of data loss or system failure.
    8. Comprehensive Security: The NAS provides various security features, including AES 256-bit encryption, firewall, IP blocking, and access control. These measures protect internet access from unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security threats.
    9. Intuitive Management Interface: Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) is the operating system that powers the RS18016xs+. It offers a user-friendly web-based interface for easy management and configuration of internet-related settings.

    Overall, the RS18016xs+ combines high performance, scalability, data protection, and advanced features to provide a reliable and efficient solution for internet access in enterprise environments.

  • How does the Synology RackStation RS18016xs+ ensure secure and reliable internet access for businesses?

    The Synology RackStation RS18016xs+ ensures secure and reliable internet access for businesses through several features:

    1. High Availability: The RS18016xs+ supports a high-availability cluster, where two RackStations can be paired to provide redundancy. In case of hardware failure, the secondary RackStation takes over seamlessly, ensuring uninterrupted internet access.
    2. Link Aggregation: The RS18016xs+ supports link aggregation, allowing multiple network interfaces to be combined into a single logical interface. This enhances network bandwidth and provides failover capabilities, ensuring reliable internet access.
    3. Virtual Private Network (VPN): Synology's VPN Server package allows businesses to set up a secure and encrypted connection for remote access. Employees can securely access company resources over the internet, ensuring data privacy and integrity.
    4. Firewall and Security Features: The RS18016xs+ includes a built-in firewall to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic. It also supports various security features like IP blocking, application blocking, and intrusion prevention, protecting the network from unauthorized access and potential threats.
    5. SSL/TLS Certificates: The RS18016xs+ supports SSL/TLS certificates, enabling encrypted communication between clients and the RackStation. This ensures secure data transmission over the internet, safeguarding sensitive information.
    6. Comprehensive User Management: The RS18016xs+ provides robust user management capabilities, allowing administrators to create and manage user accounts with different access privileges. This ensures that only authorized personnel can access specific resources and helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.
    7. Regular Software Updates: Synology regularly releases software updates and security patches to address vulnerabilities and enhance system security. By keeping the RackStation up to date, businesses can ensure a secure and reliable internet access environment.

    Overall, the RS18016xs+ combines various features and technologies to ensure secure and reliable internet access for businesses, protecting against hardware failures, unauthorized access, and potential security threats.

  • Can the Synology RackStation RS18016xs+ be easily integrated into existing network infrastructure to provide seamless internet access?

    Yes, the Synology RackStation RS18016xs+ can be easily integrated into existing network infrastructure to provide seamless internet access. It is designed to be compatible with standard networking protocols and can be connected to your existing network via Ethernet. Once connected, it can provide various services such as file sharing, backup, and hosting applications, while seamlessly integrating with your network for internet access.

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