- Why can’t ordinary software tools restore files from RAID?
- How to take hard disks out of the NAS and connect them to a PC?
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.
How can regular software updates and patches enhance the security and stability of NAS Thecus N5810 devices?
Regular software updates and patches can enhance the security and stability of NAS Thecus N5810 devices in the following ways:
- Security patches: Software updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities and address potential security risks. By regularly updating the software on the NAS device, these security patches can be applied, reducing the chances of unauthorized access, data breaches, or malware infections.
- Bug fixes: Updates and patches also address software bugs and glitches that may affect the stability and performance of the NAS device. By fixing these issues, the device becomes more reliable and less prone to crashes or unexpected behavior.
- Compatibility with new technologies: Updates ensure that the NAS device remains compatible with the latest technologies, protocols, and file systems. This allows for seamless integration with other devices, networks, and software applications, enhancing overall functionality and usability.
- Improved features and functionality: Software updates often introduce new features, enhancements, and performance optimizations. These updates can offer additional security options, improved encryption, better user management, or more efficient resource utilization, thereby enhancing the overall security and stability of the NAS device.
- Stay ahead of emerging threats: Regular updates help the NAS device to stay up to date with the latest security practices and defenses against emerging threats. As new vulnerabilities and attack techniques are discovered, software updates can provide necessary countermeasures to protect the device and its data.
- Vendor support: By keeping the NAS device updated, users can ensure they receive continued support from the vendor. This includes access to technical assistance, troubleshooting, and firmware updates. Staying within the supported software version is crucial for receiving timely assistance and ensuring the long-term stability and security of the device.
Overall, regular software updates and patches for NAS Thecus N5810 devices are essential to maintain the security, stability, and optimal performance of the device, protecting valuable data and ensuring a reliable network storage solution.
How to take hard disks out of the NAS and connect them to a PC?
Although NAS N5810 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:
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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.
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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.
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Make sure to mark each hard disk in accordance with how they were installed inside the NAS.
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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.
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Restoring data with Hetman RAID Recovery
This program recovers data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Thecus N5810. 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.
N5810 has 5 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:
- RAID 0;
- RAID 1;
- RAID 5;
- RAID 6;
- RAID 10;
- 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:
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Make sure that you have enough free space to save the image. The image file size usually equals the disk size.
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Select the disk in the main window, and choose from the menu Tools – Save Disk. You can select multiple disks to be saved.
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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.
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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.
Where are user’s files stored?
The Thecus N5810 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 |
If a NAS device like Thecus N5810 is showing signs of excessive noise or vibration, it may indicate a hardware issue. In such cases, it is recommended to immediately stop using the device to prevent any further damage.
Data recovery from a NAS device with hardware issues can be challenging and may require professional assistance. It is important to contact a data recovery specialist or the manufacturer's support team for guidance. They will have the expertise and tools necessary to assess the situation and determine if data recovery is possible.