How to Extract Data from a RAID Disk When NAS TerraMaster D5-300C Won’t Initialize

Has your NAS TerraMaster D5-300C 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?

How to Extract Data from a RAID Disk When NAS TerraMaster D5-300C Won’t Initialize

TerraMaster D5-300C 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 D5-300C. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

How to Extract Data from a RAID Disk When NAS TerraMaster D5-300C Won’t Initialize

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 TerraMaster 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 the use of specific data recovery software or services impact the success rate of data retrieval from NAS TerraMaster D5-300C devices?

Yes, the use of specific data recovery software or services can impact the success rate of data retrieval from NAS TerraMaster D5-300C devices. The success of data recovery depends on various factors such as the complexity of the data loss situation, the extent of damage to the device, and the effectiveness of the recovery software or service used.

Using reliable and professional data recovery software or services specifically designed for NAS devices can significantly increase the chances of successful data retrieval. These specialized tools have features and algorithms tailored for NAS systems, which can help in recovering data from different types of storage configurations and file systems used by the TerraMaster D5-300C.

However, it is important to note that not all data recovery software or services are created equal. Some may have better compatibility, advanced recovery algorithms, and support for specific NAS systems, which can enhance the success rate of data retrieval. It is recommended to research and choose reputable and trusted software or services with positive reviews and a proven track record in recovering data from NAS devices.

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

Although the NAS D5-300C 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 TerraMaster D5-300C. 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 TerraMaster

How to recover data from a TerraMaster

D5-300C has 4 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 0;
  • RAID 1;
  • RAID 5;
  • RAID 6;
  • JBOD;

NAS supports:

  • Ext2;
  • Ext3;
  • Ext4;
  • Btrfs;

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 TerraMaster D5-300C network-attached storage keeps OS Linux 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

Feedback

We will be happy to answer your questions!

Comments (3)

  • 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 D5-300C, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Seth Braithwaite
    Seth Braithwaite 10.09.2023 13:43 #
    Is it possible to recover data from a NAS TerraMaster D5-300C device that has been affected by a natural disaster such as flooding or earthquake?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 10.09.2023 14:59 #

      Recovering data from a NAS device that has been affected by a natural disaster such as flooding or earthquake can be challenging but not impossible. Here are a few factors to consider:

      1. Damage Assessment: The first step is to assess the extent of the damage caused by the natural disaster. If the device has been submerged in water or physically damaged, it may require professional assistance to recover the data.
      2. Data Redundancy: If you had implemented data redundancy measures like RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) on your NAS device, there is a higher chance of recovering the data. In such cases, the data may be spread across multiple drives, and even if one or two drives are damaged, the data can still be recovered.
      3. Professional Data Recovery Services: In severe cases, where the device is extensively damaged, it is recommended to seek professional data recovery services. These specialists have specialized tools and techniques to recover data from damaged storage devices. However, keep in mind that this can be an expensive process.
      4. Data Backup: Having a separate backup of your important data is crucial. If your NAS device is affected by a natural disaster, having a backup stored in a different location or on cloud storage will ensure your data is safe.

      Remember, the success of data recovery depends on the extent of the damage and the measures taken to protect and backup your data. It is always recommended to consult a professional data recovery service for the best chance of recovering your data.

Post comment
User
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

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.

Share

Questions and answers

  • What are the steps involved in accessing files on the NAS TerraMaster D5-300C from a remote location?

    To access files on the NAS TerraMaster D5-300C from a remote location, you can follow these steps:

    1. Ensure the NAS is connected to the internet: Make sure the NAS is connected to your network and has access to the internet. This can be done by connecting the NAS to your router using an Ethernet cable.
    2. Configure port forwarding: Access your router's settings and configure port forwarding to allow remote access to the NAS. Typically, you need to forward ports 80 (HTTP) and 443 (HTTPS) to the NAS's local IP address.
    3. Set up Dynamic DNS (DDNS): If your internet service provider assigns you a dynamic IP address, you will need to set up DDNS to assign a domain name to your NAS. This allows you to access the NAS using a consistent domain name, even if your IP address changes.
    4. Enable remote access on the NAS: Access the NAS's management interface through a web browser by entering its local IP address. Navigate to the settings or network section and enable remote access. You may need to set up a username and password for remote access.
    5. Configure firewall settings: If you have a firewall enabled on your router or NAS, make sure to allow incoming connections to the necessary ports (80 and 443) to enable remote access.
    6. Install and configure a VPN (optional): For added security, you can set up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on your NAS. This will create a secure connection between your remote device and the NAS, allowing you to access files securely.
    7. Access files remotely: Once the above steps are completed, you can access your files remotely. Open a web browser on your remote device and enter the DDNS domain name or your NAS's public IP address. You should be prompted to enter your username and password. After logging in, you will have access to your files on the NAS.

    Note: The specific steps may vary depending on your network setup and NAS model. It is recommended to refer to the NAS manufacturer's documentation or support resources for detailed instructions.

  • What are the security measures in place to ensure the safe access of files on the NAS TerraMaster D5-300C from a remote location?

    The TerraMaster D5-300C NAS device offers several security measures to ensure safe access to files from a remote location. These measures include:

    1. User Authentication: The NAS device requires user authentication before granting access to files. It supports various authentication methods such as username/password, LDAP, and Windows AD.
    2. Data Encryption: The TerraMaster D5-300C supports AES 256-bit encryption for data transmission and storage. This ensures that files are securely encrypted both during transmission over the internet and when stored on the NAS.
    3. SSL/TLS Support: The NAS device supports SSL/TLS protocols for secure data transmission. This ensures that data sent between the remote location and the NAS is encrypted, preventing unauthorized access or interception.
    4. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): The TerraMaster D5-300C supports two-factor authentication, which adds an extra layer of security. Users can enable 2FA to require a second authentication method, such as a verification code sent to a mobile device, in addition to the username and password.
    5. Firewall and IP Access Control: The NAS device allows users to configure firewall settings to restrict access from specific IP addresses or IP ranges. This helps prevent unauthorized access attempts from remote locations.
    6. VPN Support: The TerraMaster D5-300C supports Virtual Private Network (VPN) connections. By setting up a VPN, users can establish a secure and encrypted connection to the NAS, ensuring that files are accessed only by authorized individuals.
    7. Auditing and Logging: The NAS device keeps logs of user activities, including file access, modifications, and login attempts. These logs can be reviewed to monitor and detect any suspicious activities.
    8. Automatic Firmware Updates: TerraMaster regularly releases firmware updates to address security vulnerabilities and enhance the device's security. Users should keep the NAS firmware up to date to ensure they have the latest security patches.

    It is important to note that while the TerraMaster D5-300C offers these security measures, it is also crucial for users to follow best practices, such as using strong passwords, regularly updating passwords, and being cautious while granting access permissions to remote users.

  • Are there any limitations or restrictions when accessing files on the NAS TerraMaster D5-300C from a remote location?

    Yes, there are some limitations and restrictions when accessing files on the NAS TerraMaster D5-300C from a remote location. Here are a few common ones:

    1. Network Speed: The speed of file access may be limited by the upload and download speeds of your internet connection. If you have a slow internet connection, accessing large files or streaming media from the NAS may be challenging.
    2. Bandwidth Limitations: Some internet service providers impose data caps or bandwidth limitations. If you exceed your data limit, your access to the NAS may be restricted or slowed down.
    3. Firewall and Port Forwarding: To access the NAS remotely, you may need to configure your router's firewall and set up port forwarding. If you're not familiar with these concepts, it might be challenging to establish a remote connection.
    4. Security Concerns: Accessing files remotely introduces security risks, such as potential unauthorized access or data breaches. It's crucial to ensure that your NAS is properly secured with strong passwords, encryption, and other security measures.
    5. Dynamic IP Address: If your internet service provider assigns you a dynamic IP address, it may change periodically. This can make it difficult to maintain a consistent connection to the NAS from a remote location. You may need to use dynamic DNS services to overcome this limitation.
    6. Software Compatibility: The NAS may require specific software or protocols to access files remotely. Ensure that the software you use on your remote device is compatible with the NAS and supports the required protocols (such as FTP, SFTP, or WebDAV).

    It's important to review the user manual and documentation provided by TerraMaster for specific limitations and restrictions when accessing files on the NAS D5-300C remotely.