RAID Controller Failure on NAS Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs: Recovery Steps and Data Recovery Tips

Has your NAS Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs suddenly lost its network drive and you’re unsure what to do next? Did the RAID array collapse, making your files inaccessible? Is the device throwing errors during startup? Perhaps you accidentally rebuilt the RAID array or several hard drives failed at the same time?

RAID Controller Failure on NAS Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs: Recovery Steps and Data Recovery Tips

Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs NAS Data Recovery in 2025

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from an RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

RAID Controller Failure on NAS Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs: Recovery Steps and Data Recovery Tips

RAID Recovery™ 2.8
Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.
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Why Regular Data Recovery Tools Can’t Restore Files from RAID

Conventional hard drives store user data by writing it sequentially across the disk surface, which means an entire file is typically located on a single drive. In contrast, when data is written to a RAID array, each file is split into multiple fragments. These fragments are then distributed and written in sequence across all the drives in the array. Depending on the configuration, fragment sizes can range from 2 KB to 2 MB, so every file is physically stored across several disks at once.

This approach significantly increases read and write performance — after all, writing two halves of a 1 GB file to two drives simultaneously is much faster than writing the full 1 GB to a single disk. However, this same mechanism makes file recovery far more complex.

Different RAID levels use different methods to distribute and protect data. On top of that, manufacturers like Synology often add their own proprietary structures and variations. As a result, data can be written to disks in many different formats, and each requires a specific approach during recovery.

Can implementing user quotas or permissions help prevent accidental data loss on NAS Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs devices?

Yes, implementing user quotas and permissions can help prevent accidental data loss on NAS Synology RackStation RS3614xs+, RS3614RPxs, and RS3614xs devices.

User quotas allow you to limit the amount of storage space each user can consume on the NAS device. By setting quotas, you can prevent users from filling up the storage with excessive data, reducing the risk of running out of space and potential data loss.

Permissions, on the other hand, enable you to control access to specific folders or files on the NAS device. By assigning appropriate permissions to users or user groups, you can restrict their ability to modify or delete critical data. This helps prevent accidental deletion or modification of important files, reducing the risk of data loss.

Additionally, implementing regular backups of the NAS device's data is crucial to prevent data loss. By regularly backing up the data to an external storage device or to a remote location, you can ensure that even if accidental data loss occurs, you can easily restore the lost data from the backup.

It is recommended to regularly review and update user quotas, permissions, and backup strategies to ensure the ongoing protection of data on the NAS device.

How to Remove Hard Disks from Your NAS and Connect Them to a PC

Although the NAS RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs can be accessed over the network, you still need to remove its hard disks and connect them directly to a Windows PC. Only then can the recovery software properly scan and analyze the drives. Follow these steps:

  1. Power off the NAS and disconnect it from the power source.

    WARNING! Before removing any drives, carefully read the device manual. Improper actions may damage both the NAS enclosure and the hard disks in the RAID array.

  2. Remove the hard disks one by one, gently sliding each drive out of its slot. Remember that hard disks are highly sensitive: any impact or drop can cause serious physical damage.

  3. Label each hard disk according to its position inside the NAS. The order of the drives is crucial for correct RAID reconstruction.

  4. Connect the drives to your computer. In this video, we explain which ports you can use to connect hard disks and what to do if your PC does not have enough free connectors.

    Go to view
    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

Step-by-Step Data Recovery with Hetman RAID Recovery

Hetman Raid Recovery

This program restores data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs. Each hard disk in the array contains technical metadata describing how files were written. When launched, Hetman RAID Recovery analyzes this metadata, automatically reconstructs the damaged array, and provides access to its contents. After that, you can browse the recovered disk and save your files. The program can also restore files that were accidentally deleted from the network drive.

Go to view
How to recover data from a Synology

How to recover data from a Synology

RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs 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);

How to Safely Recover Data from Disk Images

This utility allows you to create a complete copy of a disk and work with the disk image instead of the physical drive. This approach helps protect your data from:

  • Overwriting during the recovery process;
  • Additional data loss caused by bad sectors;
  • User errors.

To create a disk image, follow these steps:

  1. Ensure you have enough free space to store the image. Its size will typically match the size of the original disk.

  2. In the main window, select the target disk and choose Tools - Save Disk. You can also select multiple disks if needed.

  3. When the Image Creation Wizard opens, select whether you want to save the entire disk or only a specific region. Adjust the settings and click Next.

    Hetman RAID Recovery: Image Creation Wizard
  4. Choose the directory where the image will be saved. You may select any available disk connected to your PC or upload the image via FTP.

    Hetman RAID Recovery: Choose a disk or save the image via FTP

Where Are the User’s Files Actually Stored?

The Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs 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.

RAID Recovery Software: Detailed Comparison

Product Operating system RAID controller support Supported file systems Virtual RAID controller support Data recovery from damaged RAID File preview
Hetman RAID Recovery Windows, Linux, MacOS Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, exFAT, NTFS, ReFS, APFS, HFS+, Ext4, Ext3, Ext2, ReiserFS, Btrfs, VMFS, Hikvision, XFS, UFS, ZFS Yes Yes Yes
DiskInternals RAID Recovery Windows Yes, over 10 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
R-Studio Windows, Mac, Linux Yes, over 20 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
UFS Explorer RAID Recovery Windows, Mac, Linux Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
EaseUS Data Recovery Windows Yes, over 20 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
ReclaiMe Free RAID Recovery Windows 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 RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs, 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 of the NAS Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs file access security?

    The key features of the NAS Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs file access security are:

    1. Advanced AES 256-bit encryption: The NAS supports AES 256-bit encryption, ensuring that your data is secure and protected from unauthorized access.
    2. Access control list (ACL) support: The NAS allows you to set up detailed access control lists, giving you granular control over who can access specific files and folders.
    3. Windows Active Directory integration: The NAS can integrate with Windows Active Directory, allowing you to leverage existing user accounts and groups for seamless authentication and access control.
    4. LDAP support: The NAS supports LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol), enabling you to integrate with LDAP servers for centralized user authentication and access management.
    5. Two-factor authentication (2FA): The NAS supports 2FA, adding an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide a second form of authentication, such as a verification code, in addition to their password.
    6. IP blocking and firewall: The NAS includes IP blocking and firewall features to protect against unauthorized access attempts and ensure that only trusted devices can connect to the system.
    7. HTTPS and SSL/TLS encryption: The NAS supports HTTPS (HTTP Secure) and SSL/TLS encryption, ensuring that data transmitted between the NAS and connected devices is encrypted and secure.
    8. Antivirus and malware protection: The NAS includes built-in antivirus and malware scanning capabilities, allowing you to scan files and folders for potential threats and protect your data from malicious software.
    9. Audit logs and reporting: The NAS keeps detailed audit logs of file access activities, allowing you to monitor and track user actions, file modifications, and access attempts. These logs can help with compliance requirements and detecting any suspicious activities.
    10. Data backup and disaster recovery: The NAS provides various backup and disaster recovery options, including snapshot technology, remote replication, and cloud backup integration, ensuring that your data is protected and can be easily restored in case of any data loss or system failure.
  • How does the NAS Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs ensure secure file access for multiple users or groups?

    The NAS Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs provides several mechanisms to ensure secure file access for multiple users or groups. Here are some of the key features:

    1. User and Group Management: The RackStation allows administrators to create and manage user accounts and groups. Each user can have a unique username and password, and groups can be created to simplify permission management.
    2. Access Control Lists (ACL): ACLs allow administrators to define fine-grained permissions for individual files and folders. This ensures that only authorized users or groups can access or modify specific files, while others are restricted.
    3. Shared Folder Permissions: The RackStation allows administrators to set permissions on shared folders, determining who can read, write, or execute files within those folders. Permissions can be set at the user or group level, ensuring that only authorized users have access.
    4. Windows Active Directory Integration: The RackStation can integrate with an existing Windows Active Directory infrastructure. This allows administrators to leverage existing user and group accounts, simplifying permission management and ensuring consistent access control across the network.
    5. HTTPS and SSL/TLS Encryption: The RackStation supports HTTPS connections, ensuring secure communication between clients and the NAS. SSL/TLS encryption protects data during transmission, preventing unauthorized access or eavesdropping.
    6. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): The RackStation supports 2FA, adding an extra layer of security to user logins. Users can enable 2FA using various authentication methods like SMS, email, or authentication apps, reducing the risk of unauthorized access even if passwords are compromised.
    7. Firewall and IP Blocking: The RackStation includes a built-in firewall that allows administrators to define access rules and block specific IP addresses or ranges. This helps protect against unauthorized access attempts and brute-force attacks.
    8. Antivirus and Malware Protection: The RackStation integrates with various antivirus and malware scanning engines. It can scan files in real-time or on-demand, ensuring that files stored on the NAS are free from malicious software.

    Overall, the combination of user management, access control mechanisms, encryption, and security features in the RackStation ensures secure file access for multiple users or groups, protecting data from unauthorized access or tampering.

  • Can you explain the different file access security protocols supported by the NAS Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs and how they enhance the overall security of the system?

    The NAS Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs supports various file access security protocols to enhance the overall security of the system. These protocols include:

    1. Access Control List (ACL): ACL allows you to define fine-grained permissions for individual users and groups. It enables you to control access to files and folders based on user roles and responsibilities, ensuring that only authorized users can access specific resources.
    2. Windows Access Control List (Windows ACL): This protocol is specifically designed to integrate with Windows environments. It provides similar functionality to ACL but with compatibility for Windows-based permissions. It enables seamless integration with existing Windows access controls and ensures consistent security across the network.
    3. LDAP Integration: Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) integration allows the NAS to authenticate users against a central LDAP directory. By leveraging existing LDAP infrastructure, it simplifies user management and ensures consistent authentication across multiple systems. This protocol enhances security by centralizing user authentication and reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
    4. Active Directory Integration: Active Directory (AD) integration enables the NAS to authenticate users against an AD server. It allows seamless integration with existing AD environments, leveraging the security features and user management capabilities of AD. By centralizing user authentication, it enhances security and simplifies user management processes.
    5. FTP over SSL/TLS (FTPS): FTPS is a secure version of the File Transfer Protocol (FTP) that adds SSL/TLS encryption for data transmission. It ensures that data transferred between the NAS and FTP clients is encrypted, protecting it from unauthorized interception and ensuring data integrity.
    6. Secure Shell (SSH): SSH provides secure remote access to the NAS through encrypted communication. It allows administrators to securely manage the system and perform administrative tasks remotely. SSH enhances security by encrypting all communication, protecting against unauthorized access and data interception.

    By supporting these file access security protocols, the NAS Synology RackStation RS3614xs+ / RS3614RPxs / RS3614xs enables administrators to implement robust access controls, integrate with existing authentication systems, and ensure secure data transmission. These protocols enhance the overall security of the system by protecting against unauthorized access, data interception, and maintaining data integrity.