RAID Array Recovery on NAS Thecus N4100+: Key Tips for When It Breaks

Has your NAS Thecus N4100+ 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 Array Recovery on NAS Thecus N4100+: Key Tips for When It Breaks
Data Recovery Tool

Thecus N4100+ 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 N4100+. 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 Array Recovery on NAS Thecus N4100+: Key Tips for When It Breaks

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 Thecus 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 type of file system used on NAS Thecus N4100+ devices affect data loss risks?

Yes, the type of file system used on NAS Thecus N4100+ devices can affect data loss risks. Different file systems have different features and capabilities, which can impact the reliability and data protection measures of the NAS device.

For example, some file systems like ZFS and Btrfs offer advanced data protection features such as data checksumming, automatic error correction, and snapshot capabilities. These features can help detect and correct data corruption or loss issues, reducing the risk of data loss.

On the other hand, file systems like FAT32 or NTFS may not have built-in data protection mechanisms, making them more susceptible to data loss in case of hardware or software failures.

Additionally, the file system used can also affect the overall performance and scalability of the NAS device, which indirectly impacts the risk of data loss. A poorly designed or inefficient file system may increase the chances of data corruption or loss during high workloads or system failures.

Therefore, it is important to choose a reliable and robust file system that suits your specific needs and provides adequate data protection measures to minimize the risk of data loss on NAS Thecus N4100+ devices.

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

Although the NAS N4100+ 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 Thecus N4100+. 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 Thecus

How to recover data from a Thecus

N4100+ has 4 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

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

NAS supports:

  • EXT3;
  • EXT4;
  • XFS;

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 Thecus N4100+ 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

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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 N4100+, feel free to leave a comment!
    Reply
  • Xander Colbeck
    Xander Colbeck 14.09.2023 17:42 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Thecus N4100+ device be done if the device is not powering on?
    Reply
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 14.09.2023 17:59 #

      If the NAS device is not powering on, it may be challenging to recover data directly from the device itself. However, there are a few possible options to consider:

      1. Check the power supply: Ensure that the power supply is functioning correctly by testing it with a multimeter or trying a different power supply if available. Sometimes, a faulty power supply can prevent the device from powering on.
      2. Remove the hard drives: If the power supply is not the issue, you can try removing the hard drives from the NAS device and connecting them to a computer directly. This can be done by using a SATA-to-USB adapter or by installing the drives into a compatible computer. Once connected, you can attempt data recovery using specialized software or seek professional assistance.
      3. Contact professional data recovery services: If the above methods do not work or if you are not comfortable attempting data recovery yourself, it is advisable to contact professional data recovery services. They have the expertise and specialized tools to recover data from faulty NAS devices, even if they are not powering on.

      Remember, data recovery can be a complex process, and it is crucial to handle the situation carefully to avoid further data loss.

      Reply
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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 necessary steps to physically set up a Thecus N4100+ NAS at home?

    Setting up a Thecus N4100+ NAS at home involves several steps. Here are the necessary steps to physically set up the NAS:

    1. Unboxing: Start by unboxing the Thecus N4100+ NAS and ensure that all the components are included in the package, such as the NAS unit, power adapter, Ethernet cable, and any additional accessories.
    2. Placement: Choose an appropriate location to place the NAS. It should be a well-ventilated area with enough space around it for proper airflow. Avoid placing it near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
    3. Power Connection: Connect the power adapter to the NAS and plug it into a power outlet. Ensure that the power source is stable and reliable.
    4. Network Connection: Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the LAN port on the NAS and the other end to your home router or switch. This will establish a network connection for the NAS.
    5. Hard Drive Installation: The Thecus N4100+ NAS supports up to four hard drives. Open the NAS casing and install the desired hard drives into the drive bays. Ensure that the hard drives are securely connected to the NAS.
    6. RAID Configuration: If you plan to use RAID for data redundancy or performance, configure the RAID level using the NAS's web interface. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to set up the desired RAID configuration.
    7. Power On: Once all the connections are made and the hard drives are installed, power on the NAS by pressing the power button. Wait for the NAS to boot up, which may take a few minutes.
    8. Software Setup: Access the NAS's web interface by entering its IP address in a web browser. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the NAS, including network settings, user accounts, and shared folders. Configure any additional settings according to your requirements.
    9. Data Backup and Access: Once the NAS is set up, you can start backing up and accessing your data. Use the provided software or configure network shares to access the NAS from your computers, smartphones, or other devices.

    It is important to refer to the manufacturer's documentation and user manual for detailed instructions specific to the Thecus N4100+ NAS model.

  • How do I configure the network settings on the Thecus N4100+ NAS to ensure proper connectivity?

    To configure the network settings on the Thecus N4100+ NAS, follow these steps:

    1. Connect the NAS to your network using an Ethernet cable.
    2. Power on the NAS and wait for it to boot up.
    3. Open a web browser on a computer connected to the same network.
    4. Enter the IP address of the NAS in the browser's address bar. The default IP address is usually "192.168.1.100" or "192.168.1.200". Consult the NAS documentation if unsure.
    5. Press Enter to access the NAS web interface.
    6. Login to the NAS using the admin username and password. The default username is "admin", and the default password is "admin" as well.
    7. Once logged in, click on "Network" or "Network Settings" in the web interface.
    8. Here, you can configure the network settings of the NAS, including the IP address, subnet mask, gateway, and DNS servers.
    9. Choose the appropriate settings based on your network configuration. If you are unsure, consult your network administrator or Internet Service Provider (ISP) for the correct values.
    10. After entering the network settings, click on "Apply" or "Save" to save the changes.
    11. The NAS will apply the new network settings, and you may need to wait a few moments for the changes to take effect.
    12. Once the network settings are configured, you should have proper connectivity on the Thecus N4100+ NAS.

    Note: It is recommended to consult the NAS documentation or contact Thecus support for specific guidance on configuring network settings for your particular model.

  • What are the recommended security measures and user settings to consider when setting up a Thecus N4100+ NAS at home?

    When setting up a Thecus N4100+ NAS at home, it is important to consider several security measures and user settings to ensure the safety and privacy of your data. Here are some recommended steps:

    1. Change the default admin password: The first step is to change the default admin password to a strong and unique one. This will prevent unauthorized access to the NAS.
    2. Enable firewall and network security: Thecus N4100+ NAS comes with a built-in firewall. Ensure that the firewall is enabled to protect against unauthorized access. Additionally, configure your home router's firewall to only allow necessary ports for accessing the NAS.
    3. Regularly update firmware and software: Keep the NAS firmware and all installed applications up to date. Manufacturers release updates to fix vulnerabilities and improve security. Regularly check for updates and apply them.
    4. Use strong user passwords: Create strong passwords for all user accounts on the NAS. Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using common or easily guessable passwords.
    5. Enable network encryption: Enable network encryption protocols like SSL/TLS for secure data transmission between the NAS and connected devices. This ensures that data cannot be intercepted or tampered with during transmission.
    6. Disable unnecessary services: Disable any unnecessary services or protocols that you do not require. This reduces the attack surface and minimizes potential vulnerabilities.
    7. Implement user access controls: Set up user access controls and permissions to limit access to specific folders or files. Only grant necessary privileges to users to avoid unauthorized access.
    8. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Thecus N4100+ supports 2FA. Enable this feature to add an extra layer of security. With 2FA, users will need to provide a second verification factor, such as a code from a mobile app, in addition to their password.
    9. Regularly backup your data: Implement a regular backup strategy to protect your data in case of hardware failure, accidental deletion, or ransomware attacks. Consider using an external hard drive or cloud storage for backups.
    10. Monitor and review logs: Regularly review the NAS logs for any suspicious activities or unauthorized access attempts. Monitoring the logs can help identify potential security issues and take appropriate action.

    Remember, security is an ongoing process, and it is essential to stay updated with the latest security practices and recommendations from Thecus or other security experts.
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