RAID Controller Failure on NAS Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs: Data Recovery Strategies and Consequences

RAID controller failure on ⭐ NAS: understand its causes, consequences, and data recovery options.

RAID Controller Failure on NAS Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs: Data Recovery Strategies and Consequences

Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs 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 RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs.

RAID Controller Failure on NAS Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs: Data Recovery Strategies and Consequences

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.

Are there any compatibility issues or limitations when connecting NAS Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs devices to different operating systems or platforms?

Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs is compatible with various operating systems and platforms. However, there might be some limitations or compatibility issues depending on the specific features or functionalities you require. Here are a few points to consider:

  1. File System Compatibility: Synology NAS devices typically use the Btrfs file system, which is compatible with most operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. However, if you plan to use advanced features like snapshots or file versioning, you may need to ensure that your operating system supports Btrfs.
  2. Network Protocols: Synology NAS supports a wide range of network protocols such as SMB, AFP, NFS, FTP, and WebDAV. These protocols are generally compatible with various operating systems. However, it's essential to verify that your OS supports the specific protocol you intend to use.
  3. Third-Party Applications: Synology NAS devices offer a variety of third-party applications and packages that enhance functionality. While many of these applications are cross-platform, some may be limited to specific operating systems. Before installing any third-party applications, ensure they are compatible with your OS.
  4. Hardware Compatibility: Synology NAS devices are designed to be hardware-agnostic and can connect to different operating systems and platforms via standard network protocols. As long as your operating system supports the required protocols, you should be able to connect to the NAS without compatibility issues.
  5. Firmware Updates: Synology regularly releases firmware updates to improve performance, security, and compatibility. It's essential to keep your NAS firmware up to date to ensure compatibility with the latest operating systems and platforms.

In summary, while Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs devices are generally compatible with different operating systems and platforms, it's crucial to verify specific requirements and features to ensure seamless integration.

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

Although NAS RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs 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 RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs. 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 RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs 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 RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs 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 RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs, 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

  • How does the NAS Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs integrate with Wi-Fi standards for seamless operation and data transfer?

    The NAS Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs does not have built-in Wi-Fi capabilities. It is designed to be connected to a wired network infrastructure using Ethernet cables for data transfer. However, you can still integrate the NAS with Wi-Fi standards by connecting it to a Wi-Fi router or access point.

    To achieve this, you would need to connect the NAS to the Wi-Fi router or access point using an Ethernet cable. The Wi-Fi router or access point will then handle the wireless communication with Wi-Fi-enabled devices. This allows seamless operation and data transfer between the NAS and Wi-Fi devices on the same network.

    By connecting the NAS to a Wi-Fi network, you can access the NAS and its data wirelessly from Wi-Fi-enabled devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets. You can also transfer files to and from the NAS using Wi-Fi connections, just like you would with a wired connection.

    It's important to note that the performance and speed of data transfer may be limited by the Wi-Fi network's capabilities and signal strength. For optimal performance, it is recommended to use a high-quality Wi-Fi router or access point and ensure a strong Wi-Fi signal in the area where the NAS is located.

  • What are the key features and capabilities of the NAS Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs that enhance its compatibility and performance with Wi-Fi standards?

    The NAS Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs does not directly enhance compatibility and performance with Wi-Fi standards as it is a network-attached storage device designed for storage and data management purposes. However, it can be connected to a Wi-Fi network through a router or switch to provide wireless access to the stored data.

    Some key features and capabilities of the RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs that can indirectly enhance compatibility and performance with Wi-Fi standards are:

    1. High-performance Hardware: The RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs is equipped with a powerful Intel Xeon processor and up to 32GB of DDR4 ECC memory. This ensures smooth data processing and fast file transfers, which can be beneficial when accessing data over a Wi-Fi network.
    2. High-speed Connectivity: The NAS supports multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports, which can be aggregated or used for failover to ensure a reliable and high-speed network connection. This can help in maintaining a stable and fast Wi-Fi connection to the NAS.
    3. Scalability: The RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs supports up to 36 drive bays, allowing for extensive storage capacity. This can be useful for storing and accessing large amounts of data over a Wi-Fi network.
    4. RAID Support: The NAS supports various RAID configurations, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10. This provides data protection and redundancy, ensuring that data remains accessible even in case of drive failures when accessed over Wi-Fi.
    5. Advanced File System: The NAS utilizes the Btrfs file system, which offers advanced data protection features such as snapshots, data integrity checks, and file versioning. These features can enhance data reliability and security when accessed over Wi-Fi.
    6. Virtualization Support: The RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs is compatible with virtualization technologies such as VMware, Citrix, and Microsoft Hyper-V. This allows for seamless integration with virtual environments that may include Wi-Fi connectivity.

    While the RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs does not have specific features tailored for Wi-Fi compatibility and performance, its overall high-performance hardware, network connectivity options, scalability, and data protection capabilities contribute to a reliable and efficient storage solution that can be accessed over a Wi-Fi network.

  • Are there any specific requirements or configurations needed to ensure optimal Wi-Fi operation when using the NAS Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs?

    To ensure optimal Wi-Fi operation when using the Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs, there are a few requirements and configurations to consider:

    1. Wi-Fi Router: You need a reliable and high-performance Wi-Fi router that supports the latest Wi-Fi standards (such as 802.11ac or 802.11ax) to ensure fast and stable wireless connections.
    2. Wi-Fi Channels: It is recommended to use a Wi-Fi channel that is less congested and interference-free. You can use tools like Wi-Fi analyzer to identify the least crowded channels in your area and configure your router accordingly.
    3. Wi-Fi Security: Enable strong Wi-Fi security protocols like WPA2 or WPA3 to protect your wireless network from unauthorized access.
    4. NAS Placement: Ensure that the Synology RackStation is placed in an optimal location with good Wi-Fi signal strength. Avoid placing the NAS in areas with physical obstructions or far away from the Wi-Fi router, as it can lead to weak Wi-Fi signals and slower speeds.
    5. Network Speed: The NAS itself should be connected to the router using a wired Ethernet connection rather than relying on Wi-Fi. This ensures faster and more stable data transfer speeds between the NAS and other devices on the network.
    6. NAS Configuration: Configure the NAS with appropriate network settings, including IP address, gateway, and DNS server. You can set up these settings through the NAS management interface.
    7. Quality of Service (QoS): If your router supports QoS settings, prioritize the network traffic for the NAS to ensure smooth and uninterrupted data transfers.
    8. Firmware Updates: Keep the firmware of your Wi-Fi router and the NAS up to date to benefit from the latest performance improvements, bug fixes, and security patches.

    By following these requirements and configurations, you can optimize the Wi-Fi operation when using the Synology RackStation RS3621xs+ / RS3621RPxs and ensure fast and reliable wireless connectivity for your network.

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