What are the key benefits of adding an additional hard drive to a NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs?

Adding an additional hard drive to a NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs offers several key benefits:Increased Storage Capacity: By adding an extra hard drive, you can expand the storage capacity of the NAS, allowing you to store more data and files.Improved Data Redundancy: The additional hard drive can be used to set up a RAID configuration, such as RAID 1 or RAID 5, which provides data redundancy. In the event of a hard drive failure, the data can be recovered from the redundant drives, ensuring data integrity and minimizing downtime.Enhanced Performance: With an additional hard drive, you can distribute the workload across multiple drives, improving read and write speeds. This can be particularly beneficial for tasks that involve heavy data access or multiple users accessing the NAS simultaneously.Easy Scalability: The NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs is designed to support expansion units, allowing you to add more hard drives as your storage needs grow. This makes it easy to scale up the storage capacity without replacing the entire NAS.Data Backup and Recovery: The additional hard drive can be utilized for backup purposes, either through manual backups or automated backup tasks. This ensures that your important data is protected and can be easily recovered in case of accidental deletion, data corruption, or hardware failure.Flexibility and Versatility: With an extra hard drive, you have the flexibility to configure different storage options, such as creating separate volumes for specific purposes or setting up a storage pool for efficient space utilization.Reduces Downtime: By having multiple hard drives in a RAID configuration, the NAS can continue functioning even if one of the drives fails. This reduces downtime and minimizes the impact on productivity.Overall, adding an additional hard drive to a NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs enhances storage capacity, data redundancy, performance, and data protection, providing a more robust and reliable storage solution for businesses or individuals.

What factors should be considered when selecting an additional hard drive for these NAS models in terms of storage capacity, speed, and compatibility?

When selecting an additional hard drive for NAS models in terms of storage capacity, speed, and compatibility, the following factors should be considered:Storage Capacity: Determine the amount of storage capacity required based on your needs. Consider factors such as the size of your data, future expansion requirements, and budget constraints.Drive Speed: Look for hard drives with higher RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) as they generally offer faster data transfer rates. Consider 7200 RPM drives for better performance, especially if you plan to use the NAS for demanding tasks like media streaming or large file transfers.Compatibility: Ensure that the hard drive is compatible with your NAS model. Check the manufacturer's specifications or compatibility lists to verify if the drive is officially supported. Consider factors like drive interface (SATA, SAS), form factor (2.5-inch, 3.5-inch), and the maximum supported capacity by the NAS.Drive Reliability: Look for hard drives designed for NAS usage, as they are typically built to handle the continuous operation and workload demands of a NAS environment. Consider drives with features like vibration resistance, error recovery controls, and optimized firmware for NAS systems.RAID Support: If you plan to use RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) for data redundancy or performance, ensure that the selected hard drive is compatible with the RAID configuration supported by your NAS model. Some drives are specifically designed for RAID setups and offer features like TLER (Time-Limited Error Recovery) to minimize the chances of drive dropouts during RAID rebuilds.Budget: Consider your budget constraints while selecting the additional hard drive. Higher capacity and faster drives generally come at a higher cost. It's important to strike a balance between your storage requirements and budget limitations.Brand and Warranty: Consider reputable brands known for their reliability and customer support. Check the warranty period offered by the manufacturer, as longer warranties generally indicate more confidence in the drive's quality and durability.Note: It's always recommended to consult the NAS manufacturer's documentation or support channels for specific recommendations and guidelines regarding compatible hard drives for your NAS model.

How does the process of adding an additional hard drive to the NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs differ from other NAS models, and what steps should be followed to ensure a smooth installation and configuration?

The process of adding an additional hard drive to the NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs is similar to other NAS models. However, there are a few steps that need to be followed to ensure a smooth installation and configuration. Here is a step-by-step guide:Choose the right hard drive: Ensure that the hard drive you are adding is compatible with the NAS model and meets the recommended specifications. Check the Synology website or the user manual for the compatible hard drive list.Power off the NAS: Before adding the hard drive, it is important to power off the NAS to prevent any data loss or damage.Open the NAS chassis: Remove the screws or locks that secure the NAS chassis and carefully open it.Locate the drive bays: Identify the drive bays where you want to install the additional hard drive. The RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs models have multiple drive bays, usually located at the front of the NAS.Prepare the hard drive: If the hard drive is brand new, it might require formatting. Check the Synology website or user manual for instructions on how to format the hard drive using the NAS.Install the hard drive: Carefully insert the hard drive into the empty drive bay. Ensure that the connectors on the hard drive match the connectors in the drive bay. Push the hard drive in until it is firmly seated.Secure the hard drive: Use the provided screws or locks to secure the hard drive in place. Make sure the hard drive is tightly secured to prevent any movement or damage during operation.Close the NAS chassis: Once the hard drive is installed, close the NAS chassis and secure it with the screws or locks.Power on the NAS: Connect the NAS to the power source and turn it on. Wait for the NAS to boot up completely.Configure the hard drive: Access the NAS management interface using a web browser and log in to the DSM (DiskStation Manager) software. Follow the on-screen instructions to configure the newly added hard drive. This may include setting up RAID, creating volumes, and configuring data storage options.Test and monitor: After the configuration is complete, it is recommended to run a test on the newly added hard drive to ensure it is functioning properly. Monitor the NAS regularly to ensure the health and performance of the hard drives.By following these steps, you can successfully add an additional hard drive to the NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs and configure it for optimal performance.

NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs RAID Controller Failure: Causes, Recovery Techniques, and Data Recovery Steps

Name: How to recover data from a Synology
Uploaded: 2025-10-16T08:53:56+03:00
Description: How to recover data from a Synology

Has your NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs 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?

NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs RAID Controller Failure: Causes, Recovery Techniques, and Data Recovery Steps

Data Recovery Tool

Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs 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 RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

Contents

Why Regular Data Recovery Tools Can’t Restore Files from RAID
Key Information About the NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs
How to Remove Hard Disks from Your NAS and Connect Them to a PC

RAID Recovery™ 2.8

Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.

Download

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 malware or ransomware attacks lead to data loss in NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs devices?

Yes, malware or ransomware attacks can potentially lead to data loss in NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+, RS3617RPxs, or RS3617xs devices. Malware or ransomware can infect the NAS device and encrypt or delete the stored data, making it inaccessible to the users. It is essential to implement proper security measures, such as regular software updates, strong passwords, and enabling firewall and antivirus protection, to minimize the risk of such attacks and protect the data stored on the NAS device. Additionally, regular backups of the data stored on the NAS device should be maintained to ensure data recovery in case of an attack.

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

Although the NAS RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs 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:

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

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How to Order Remote Data Recovery

Step-by-Step Data Recovery with Hetman RAID Recovery

This program restores data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs. 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.

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How to recover data from a Synology

RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs 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:

Ensure you have enough free space to store the image. Its size will typically match the size of the original disk.
In the main window, select the target disk and choose Tools - Save Disk. You can also select multiple disks if needed.
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.
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.

Where Are the User’s Files Actually Stored?

The Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs 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 9.08.2022 12:31 #

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Updated:
16.10.2025 8:53

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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.

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.

Questions and answers

What are the key benefits of adding an additional hard drive to a NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs?
Adding an additional hard drive to a NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs offers several key benefits:
1. Increased Storage Capacity: By adding an extra hard drive, you can expand the storage capacity of the NAS, allowing you to store more data and files.
2. Improved Data Redundancy: The additional hard drive can be used to set up a RAID configuration, such as RAID 1 or RAID 5, which provides data redundancy. In the event of a hard drive failure, the data can be recovered from the redundant drives, ensuring data integrity and minimizing downtime.
3. Enhanced Performance: With an additional hard drive, you can distribute the workload across multiple drives, improving read and write speeds. This can be particularly beneficial for tasks that involve heavy data access or multiple users accessing the NAS simultaneously.
4. Easy Scalability: The NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs is designed to support expansion units, allowing you to add more hard drives as your storage needs grow. This makes it easy to scale up the storage capacity without replacing the entire NAS.
5. Data Backup and Recovery: The additional hard drive can be utilized for backup purposes, either through manual backups or automated backup tasks. This ensures that your important data is protected and can be easily recovered in case of accidental deletion, data corruption, or hardware failure.
6. Flexibility and Versatility: With an extra hard drive, you have the flexibility to configure different storage options, such as creating separate volumes for specific purposes or setting up a storage pool for efficient space utilization.
7. Reduces Downtime: By having multiple hard drives in a RAID configuration, the NAS can continue functioning even if one of the drives fails. This reduces downtime and minimizes the impact on productivity.
Overall, adding an additional hard drive to a NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs enhances storage capacity, data redundancy, performance, and data protection, providing a more robust and reliable storage solution for businesses or individuals.
What factors should be considered when selecting an additional hard drive for these NAS models in terms of storage capacity, speed, and compatibility?
When selecting an additional hard drive for NAS models in terms of storage capacity, speed, and compatibility, the following factors should be considered:
1. Storage Capacity: Determine the amount of storage capacity required based on your needs. Consider factors such as the size of your data, future expansion requirements, and budget constraints.
2. Drive Speed: Look for hard drives with higher RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) as they generally offer faster data transfer rates. Consider 7200 RPM drives for better performance, especially if you plan to use the NAS for demanding tasks like media streaming or large file transfers.
3. Compatibility: Ensure that the hard drive is compatible with your NAS model. Check the manufacturer's specifications or compatibility lists to verify if the drive is officially supported. Consider factors like drive interface (SATA, SAS), form factor (2.5-inch, 3.5-inch), and the maximum supported capacity by the NAS.
4. Drive Reliability: Look for hard drives designed for NAS usage, as they are typically built to handle the continuous operation and workload demands of a NAS environment. Consider drives with features like vibration resistance, error recovery controls, and optimized firmware for NAS systems.
5. RAID Support: If you plan to use RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) for data redundancy or performance, ensure that the selected hard drive is compatible with the RAID configuration supported by your NAS model. Some drives are specifically designed for RAID setups and offer features like TLER (Time-Limited Error Recovery) to minimize the chances of drive dropouts during RAID rebuilds.
6. Budget: Consider your budget constraints while selecting the additional hard drive. Higher capacity and faster drives generally come at a higher cost. It's important to strike a balance between your storage requirements and budget limitations.
7. Brand and Warranty: Consider reputable brands known for their reliability and customer support. Check the warranty period offered by the manufacturer, as longer warranties generally indicate more confidence in the drive's quality and durability.
Note: It's always recommended to consult the NAS manufacturer's documentation or support channels for specific recommendations and guidelines regarding compatible hard drives for your NAS model.
How does the process of adding an additional hard drive to the NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs differ from other NAS models, and what steps should be followed to ensure a smooth installation and configuration?
The process of adding an additional hard drive to the NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs is similar to other NAS models. However, there are a few steps that need to be followed to ensure a smooth installation and configuration. Here is a step-by-step guide:
1. Choose the right hard drive: Ensure that the hard drive you are adding is compatible with the NAS model and meets the recommended specifications. Check the Synology website or the user manual for the compatible hard drive list.
2. Power off the NAS: Before adding the hard drive, it is important to power off the NAS to prevent any data loss or damage.
3. Open the NAS chassis: Remove the screws or locks that secure the NAS chassis and carefully open it.
4. Locate the drive bays: Identify the drive bays where you want to install the additional hard drive. The RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs models have multiple drive bays, usually located at the front of the NAS.
5. Prepare the hard drive: If the hard drive is brand new, it might require formatting. Check the Synology website or user manual for instructions on how to format the hard drive using the NAS.
6. Install the hard drive: Carefully insert the hard drive into the empty drive bay. Ensure that the connectors on the hard drive match the connectors in the drive bay. Push the hard drive in until it is firmly seated.
7. Secure the hard drive: Use the provided screws or locks to secure the hard drive in place. Make sure the hard drive is tightly secured to prevent any movement or damage during operation.
8. Close the NAS chassis: Once the hard drive is installed, close the NAS chassis and secure it with the screws or locks.
9. Power on the NAS: Connect the NAS to the power source and turn it on. Wait for the NAS to boot up completely.
10. Configure the hard drive: Access the NAS management interface using a web browser and log in to the DSM (DiskStation Manager) software. Follow the on-screen instructions to configure the newly added hard drive. This may include setting up RAID, creating volumes, and configuring data storage options.
11. Test and monitor: After the configuration is complete, it is recommended to run a test on the newly added hard drive to ensure it is functioning properly. Monitor the NAS regularly to ensure the health and performance of the hard drives.
By following these steps, you can successfully add an additional hard drive to the NAS Synology RackStation RS3617xs+ / RS3617RPxs / RS3617xs and configure it for optimal performance.