NAS Synology RackStation RS214 RAID Arrays: Data Recovery Methods for Natural Component Wear

Data recovery from ⭐ NAS RAID arrays after natural component wear: essential steps to follow.

NAS Synology RackStation RS214 RAID Arrays: Data Recovery Methods for Natural Component Wear

Synology RackStation RS214 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 RS214.

NAS Synology RackStation RS214 RAID Arrays: Data Recovery Methods for 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 does a NAS Synology RackStation RS214 device store and manage data?

The Synology RackStation RS214 is a network-attached storage (NAS) device that stores and manages data using various mechanisms. Here's how it typically works:

  1. Hard Drives: The RS214 comes with two drive bays, and you can install two hard drives or solid-state drives (SSDs) in these bays. The device supports various storage capacities, and you can configure the drives in different RAID configurations (e.g., RAID 0, RAID 1, JBOD) depending on your requirements.
  2. File System: The RS214 uses the Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system, which supports multiple file systems. By default, it uses the Btrfs (B-Tree File System) or EXT4 file system, depending on your configuration. These file systems provide data integrity, snapshots, and other advanced features.
  3. Data Management: The RS214 offers various data management features. You can create shared folders to organize your data and assign different access permissions to users or groups. It also supports file-level and folder-level encryption to ensure data security.
  4. RAID Protection: If you configure the RS214 in a RAID configuration (e.g., RAID 1), it provides data redundancy. This means that even if one drive fails, your data remains accessible, and you can replace the faulty drive without downtime or data loss.
  5. Backup and Sync: The RS214 supports various backup and synchronization mechanisms. You can schedule regular backups to external drives, other NAS devices, or cloud storage services. It also offers file syncing capabilities, allowing you to keep data synchronized across multiple devices.
  6. Remote Access: Synology NAS devices come with built-in remote access features. With the RS214, you can access your data remotely using Synology's QuickConnect service or by setting up a virtual private network (VPN) connection. This enables you to access and manage your data from anywhere securely.
  7. Application Ecosystem: The RS214 supports a wide range of applications through the Synology Package Center. You can install applications like file servers, media servers, backup utilities, surveillance software, and more. These applications enhance the functionality of the device and allow you to customize it according to your needs.

Overall, the Synology RackStation RS214 device stores and manages data by utilizing hard drives, file systems, RAID configurations, data management features, backup and sync mechanisms, remote access capabilities, and an extensive application ecosystem.

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

Although NAS RackStation RS214 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 RS214. 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 RS214 has 2 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • Synology Hybrid RAID;
  • RAID 1;
  • RAID 0;
  • Basic;
  • JBOD;

NAS supports:

  • EXT4;
  • EXT3 (External Disk Only);
  • FAT32 (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 RackStation RS214 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 RackStation RS214, 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 steps involved in setting up remote access to files on the NAS Synology RackStation RS214?

    To set up remote access to files on the NAS Synology RackStation RS214, follow these steps:

    1. Connect the NAS device to your network: Ensure that the NAS device is connected to your local network using an Ethernet cable.
    2. Power on the NAS: Plug in the power adapter and turn on the NAS device.
    3. Access the NAS web interface: Open a web browser on a computer connected to the same network as the NAS device. Enter the IP address of the NAS in the browser's address bar, or use the Synology Assistant software to find and access the NAS.
    4. Set up DiskStation Manager (DSM): Follow the on-screen instructions to install and configure DSM on the NAS. Create an administrator account and set up the desired settings.
    5. Enable File Services: In the DSM interface, go to "Control Panel" and select "File Services." Enable the desired file services like SMB (Windows file sharing), AFP (Apple file sharing), or NFS (Network File System) based on your requirements.
    6. Configure Shared Folders: In the DSM interface, go to "Control Panel" and select "Shared Folder." Create shared folders to store your files and set appropriate access permissions for different users or user groups.
    7. Set up Remote Access: In the DSM interface, go to "Control Panel" and select "External Access." Enable the desired remote access method, such as QuickConnect or DDNS (Dynamic DNS). Follow the instructions to configure the remote access settings.
    8. Set up Port Forwarding: If you are using DDNS or need to access the NAS from outside your local network, you may need to set up port forwarding on your router. Consult your router's documentation to forward the necessary ports to the NAS device.
    9. Install Synology mobile apps (optional): To access your files remotely on mobile devices, download and install the relevant Synology mobile apps like DS File, DS Audio, or DS Video from the app store.
    10. Test Remote Access: Use a computer or mobile device outside your local network to access the NAS using the configured remote access method. Verify that you can connect to and access the files on the NAS remotely.

    By following these steps, you should be able to set up remote access to files on the NAS Synology RackStation RS214.

  • What security measures should be taken when accessing files on the NAS Synology RackStation RS214 from a remote location?

    When accessing files on the NAS Synology RackStation RS214 from a remote location, several security measures should be taken to ensure the safety and integrity of the data. Here are some important security measures to consider:

    1. Enable HTTPS: Ensure that HTTPS is enabled on the NAS device to encrypt the communication between the remote client and the NAS, preventing unauthorized interception of data.
    2. Use a VPN: Establish a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection to access the NAS remotely. This adds an extra layer of security by encrypting the entire connection and making it more difficult for attackers to intercept or manipulate data.
    3. Strong Authentication: Implement strong authentication mechanisms such as two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) to prevent unauthorized access. This adds an additional layer of security by requiring a second form of authentication, such as a code from a mobile app or a physical token.
    4. Firewall Configuration: Configure the firewall on the NAS device to only allow connections from trusted IP addresses or ranges. This helps to limit access to the NAS from specific authorized locations.
    5. Regular Firmware Updates: Keep the NAS device's firmware up to date with the latest security patches and updates provided by Synology. This helps to address any known vulnerabilities and ensure the device is protected against potential exploits.
    6. Strong Passwords: Set strong, unique passwords for all user accounts on the NAS device, including the administrator account. Avoid using default or easily guessable passwords to prevent unauthorized access.
    7. Disable Unnecessary Services: Disable any unnecessary services or protocols on the NAS device to reduce the attack surface and minimize potential vulnerabilities.
    8. Data Encryption: Enable data encryption on the NAS device to protect the stored files. This ensures that even if the physical device is compromised, the data remains encrypted and unreadable without the encryption key.
    9. Regular Backup: Implement a regular backup strategy to ensure that important data is backed up and can be recovered in case of any data loss or ransomware attack.
    10. User Access Control: Implement granular user access control and permissions on the NAS device to restrict access to specific files or folders only to authorized users.

    By implementing these security measures, you can significantly enhance the security of accessing files on the NAS Synology RackStation RS214 from a remote location.

  • Are there any specific software or applications required to access files on the NAS Synology RackStation RS214 remotely, and if so, what are they?

    To access files on the NAS Synology RackStation RS214 remotely, you can use the following software and applications:

    1. Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM): This is the operating system that powers Synology NAS devices. You can access the DSM web interface using a web browser to manage and access files remotely.
    2. Synology Drive: Synology Drive is a file synchronization and sharing application that allows you to access files on your NAS from various devices, including desktop computers, laptops, and mobile devices. It provides a user-friendly interface and supports features like file versioning and offline access.
    3. Synology DS File: DS File is a mobile application available for iOS and Android devices. It allows you to access, browse, and manage files on your Synology NAS remotely. You can download, upload, and share files using this app.
    4. File Explorer or Finder: You can also access files on your NAS remotely using the built-in file explorer or finder on your operating system. Simply connect to the NAS using its network address (e.g., \nasname or smb://nasname) and enter your login credentials.

    Note: To access files on the NAS remotely, you need to configure your router to allow external access and set up port forwarding. Additionally, you may need to set up a dynamic DNS service if you have a dynamic IP address from your internet service provider.

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