Steps to Recover Your NAS Thecus N0204 miniNAS RAID Array: Essential Guide When It Breaks

⭐ NAS RAID array broken? Here’s what to do next to recover your data and restore your system.

Steps to Recover Your NAS Thecus N0204 miniNAS RAID Array: Essential Guide When It Breaks

Thecus N0204 miniNAS NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from N0204 miniNAS.

Steps to Recover Your NAS Thecus N0204 miniNAS RAID Array: Essential Guide When It Breaks

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 Thecus also introduce some modifications to this process, and that is why data can be written to hard disk in a wide variety of ways.

What are the risks of data loss due to firmware or software malfunctions in NAS Thecus N0204 miniNAS devices?

There are several risks of data loss due to firmware or software malfunctions in NAS Thecus N0204 miniNAS devices:

  1. Corrupted firmware: If the firmware of the NAS device becomes corrupted or fails to update properly, it can lead to data loss. This can happen during firmware upgrades or due to bugs or glitches in the firmware.
  2. Software bugs or glitches: The software running on the NAS device may have bugs or glitches that can cause data loss. These issues can result in data corruption, file system errors, or even complete loss of data.
  3. Incompatibility with third-party software: If the NAS device is not compatible with certain third-party software or applications, it can lead to data loss. This can happen if the software is not properly integrated with the NAS or if there are compatibility issues between the two.
  4. Hardware failure during firmware or software operations: There is always a risk of hardware failure during firmware or software operations. If the NAS device experiences a hardware failure, such as a power outage or a faulty component, it can result in data loss.
  5. Human error during firmware or software operations: If the firmware or software is not properly installed, configured, or operated by the user, it can lead to data loss. Human errors, such as accidental deletion of files or misconfiguration of settings, can result in irreversible data loss.

To mitigate these risks, it is important to regularly update the firmware of the NAS device, ensure compatibility with third-party software, maintain proper backups of the data, and follow best practices for data management and security.

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

Although NAS N0204 miniNAS 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 Thecus N0204 miniNAS. 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 Thecus

How to recover data from a Thecus

N0204 miniNAS has 2 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 0;
  • RAID 1;
  • JBOD;

NAS supports:

  • EXT3;
  • EXT4;
  • XFS;

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 Thecus N0204 miniNAS 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.

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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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 N0204 miniNAS, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Jesse Goode
    Jesse Goode 14.09.2023 14:49 #
    Is it possible to recover data from a NAS Thecus N0204 miniNAS device that has been physically damaged by a fall or impact?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 14.09.2023 15:59 #

      It is possible to recover data from a physically damaged NAS device, but it depends on the extent of the damage. If the internal components or hard drives are damaged, it may require professional data recovery services.

      In the case of a fall or impact, the first step would be to assess the physical damage. If the device's casing is cracked or broken, it may be necessary to replace it before attempting any data recovery. If the hard drives are damaged, they may need to be repaired or replaced as well.

      If the physical damage is limited to the external casing and the hard drives are intact, it may be possible to remove the drives and connect them to a computer or another NAS device to recover the data. However, it is recommended to consult with a professional data recovery service to ensure the best chance of successful recovery and to avoid further damage to the drives.

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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 can the web interface of Thecus N0204 miniNAS be accessed and what features does it offer?

    The web interface of Thecus N0204 miniNAS can be accessed by following these steps:

    1. Connect your computer to the same network as the miniNAS.
    2. Open a web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari).
    3. Enter the IP address of the miniNAS in the address bar. The default IP address is usually 192.168.1.100, but it may vary depending on your network setup. You can find the IP address by using Thecus Setup Wizard or checking your router's connected devices list.

    Once you access the web interface, you will have access to various features and settings, including:

    1. File Management: You can upload, download, delete, and organize files on the miniNAS. It supports file sharing protocols like SMB/CIFS, FTP, and NFS.
    2. User and Group Management: You can create and manage user accounts and groups, controlling access permissions to shared folders.
    3. RAID Configuration: The miniNAS supports RAID levels 0 and 1. You can configure and manage the RAID arrays through the web interface.
    4. Network Settings: You can configure network settings such as IP address, DNS, and gateway.
    5. Backup and Synchronization: The miniNAS offers backup and synchronization options to external devices or cloud storage services.
    6. Multimedia Server: You can set up a multimedia server to stream media files to devices like smart TVs, media players, or mobile devices.
    7. System Monitoring: The web interface provides information about system status, including disk health, CPU usage, and network activity.
    8. Firmware Updates: You can check for firmware updates and perform the update process through the web interface.
    9. App Center: The miniNAS has an App Center where you can install additional applications to extend its functionality, such as antivirus, surveillance, or download managers.

    These are just some of the features available in the web interface of Thecus N0204 miniNAS. The actual feature set may vary depending on the firmware version and specific model.

  • Can the web interface of Thecus N0204 miniNAS be customized or personalized according to user preferences?

    Yes, the web interface of Thecus N0204 miniNAS can be customized and personalized according to user preferences. Thecus provides a user-friendly administration interface that allows users to customize various settings, layouts, and themes to suit their preferences. Users can also add or remove features and modules based on their specific requirements.

  • Are there any security measures or authentication protocols in place to protect the web interface of Thecus N0204 miniNAS from unauthorized access?

    Yes, Thecus N0204 miniNAS provides security measures and authentication protocols to protect its web interface from unauthorized access. Some of the security features include:

    1. User Authentication: The web interface requires users to provide valid login credentials, such as a username and password, to access the system. This helps prevent unauthorized access by requiring authentication.
    2. Access Control: Thecus N0204 miniNAS allows administrators to define user roles and access permissions. This ensures that only authorized users can access specific features or data on the device.
    3. HTTPS Support: The web interface supports HTTPS (HTTP over SSL/TLS) protocol, which encrypts the communication between the user's web browser and the device. This helps protect against eavesdropping and data interception.
    4. IP Whitelisting/Blacklisting: Administrators can configure IP whitelists or blacklists to control access to the web interface. Whitelisting allows access only from specified IP addresses, while blacklisting blocks access from specific IP addresses.
    5. Brute Force Protection: Thecus N0204 miniNAS may have mechanisms in place to detect and prevent brute force attacks, where an attacker tries multiple login attempts using different credentials. This helps protect against unauthorized access attempts.

    It is important for users to keep their firmware up to date and follow best practices for securing their NAS device, such as using strong passwords and regularly reviewing access logs for any suspicious activity.

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