Preventing Data Loss on NAS WD My Cloud Home and Recovering Deleted Files: Pro Tips

Prevent data loss on ⭐ NAS with RAID setups and recover deleted files from backups.

Preventing Data Loss on NAS WD My Cloud Home and Recovering Deleted Files: Pro Tips

WD My Cloud Home NAS Data Recovery in 2024

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

Preventing Data Loss on NAS WD My Cloud Home and Recovering Deleted Files: Pro Tips

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 WD 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 continuous data protection mechanisms help in minimizing potential data loss on NAS WD My Cloud Home devices?

Continuous data protection mechanisms can help minimize potential data loss on NAS WD My Cloud Home devices in the following ways:

  1. Real-time Backup: Continuous data protection ensures that data is backed up in real-time or with very minimal delay. This means that any changes or modifications made to the data on the NAS device are immediately backed up, reducing the risk of data loss.
  2. Incremental Backups: Continuous data protection typically performs incremental backups, meaning that only the changes made to the data are backed up, rather than the entire dataset. This reduces the backup time and storage requirements, while ensuring that the latest version of the data is always protected.
  3. Point-in-Time Recovery: Continuous data protection mechanisms often provide the ability to recover data to a specific point in time. This means that even if data gets corrupted or deleted, users can restore it to a previous state when it was still intact, thereby minimizing the impact of data loss.
  4. Automatic Backup Scheduling: Continuous data protection mechanisms can be configured to automatically schedule backups at regular intervals. This ensures that backups are performed regularly without manual intervention, reducing the risk of forgetting to back up important data.
  5. Versioning and File History: Some continuous data protection mechanisms offer versioning and file history features. These features keep track of multiple versions of files and allow users to restore previous versions if needed. This can be helpful in case of accidental file modifications or data corruption.
  6. Redundant Storage: Continuous data protection mechanisms often support redundant storage options, such as RAID configurations or cloud backups. Redundancy helps protect against hardware failures or disasters by storing data in multiple locations, reducing the risk of data loss.

Overall, continuous data protection mechanisms provide a proactive approach to data backup and recovery, ensuring that data is continuously protected and minimizing the potential for data loss on NAS WD My Cloud Home devices.

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

Although NAS My Cloud Home 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 WD My Cloud Home. 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 WD

How to recover data from a WD

My Cloud Home has 1 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • None;

NAS supports:

  • Ext2;
  • Ext3;
  • Ext4;

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 WD My Cloud Home 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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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 My Cloud Home, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Jordie Robertson
    Jordie Robertson 12.09.2023 08:53 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS WD My Cloud Home device be done if the device is showing signs of excessive noise or vibration?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 12.09.2023 10:00 #

      If a WD My Cloud Home device is showing signs of excessive noise or vibration, it may indicate a hardware issue. In such cases, it is recommended to contact Western Digital support or a professional data recovery service to assess the situation. They will have the necessary expertise and tools to diagnose and potentially recover data from the device. However, it is important to note that data recovery is not guaranteed, especially if the hardware is severely damaged.

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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 WD My Cloud Home enhance the functionality of a surveillance system compared to traditional storage options?

    The NAS WD My Cloud Home enhances the functionality of a surveillance system compared to traditional storage options in several ways:

    1. Centralized Storage: The My Cloud Home provides a centralized storage solution for surveillance footage. It allows you to store all your video recordings in one place, making it easier to manage and access the footage when needed.
    2. Remote Access: With the My Cloud Home, you can access your surveillance footage remotely from anywhere using a mobile app or web interface. This enables you to monitor your premises even when you are not physically present.
    3. Easy Backup and Sync: The device offers automatic backup and synchronization features, ensuring that your surveillance footage is always backed up and up to date. This eliminates the need for manual backups and reduces the risk of data loss.
    4. Scalability: The My Cloud Home is available in various storage capacities, allowing you to choose the one that suits your surveillance needs. It can be easily expanded by adding additional drives or upgrading to higher-capacity models, providing scalability as your surveillance system grows.
    5. User-Friendly Interface: The My Cloud Home comes with a user-friendly interface that simplifies the management of surveillance footage. It provides easy navigation, search, and playback options, making it convenient to find specific recordings quickly.
    6. Integration with Third-Party Apps: The device supports integration with various third-party surveillance apps and software, enhancing its compatibility and functionality within existing surveillance systems.

    Overall, the NAS WD My Cloud Home offers a more streamlined and efficient storage solution for surveillance systems compared to traditional options. It provides centralized storage, remote access, easy backup and sync, scalability, user-friendly interface, and integration capabilities, enhancing the overall functionality of the surveillance system.

  • What are the key features and capabilities of the NAS WD My Cloud Home that make it suitable for use in a surveillance system?

    The NAS WD My Cloud Home has several key features and capabilities that make it suitable for use in a surveillance system:

    1. Storage capacity: The NAS WD My Cloud Home is available in various storage capacities, ranging from 2TB to 8TB, allowing for ample storage space to store surveillance footage.
    2. Easy setup and configuration: The NAS WD My Cloud Home is designed to be user-friendly and easy to set up. It can be quickly connected to a network and configured for use in a surveillance system.
    3. Remote access: The device provides remote access capabilities, allowing users to access the surveillance footage from anywhere using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. This is particularly useful for monitoring and reviewing footage remotely.
    4. Automatic backup: The NAS WD My Cloud Home can be configured to automatically back up surveillance footage from IP cameras or NVRs. This ensures that the footage is securely stored and protected in case of any system failures or data loss.
    5. Compatibility with third-party apps: The device supports integration with various third-party surveillance apps and software, allowing for seamless integration with existing surveillance systems. This enables users to easily manage and access surveillance footage from a centralized location.
    6. Data security: The NAS WD My Cloud Home offers built-in security features, such as password protection and encryption, to ensure the privacy and security of the stored surveillance footage. This helps protect against unauthorized access or tampering.
    7. Scalability: The NAS WD My Cloud Home can be expanded by adding additional external hard drives or utilizing cloud storage services, providing scalability to accommodate growing surveillance needs.

    Overall, the NAS WD My Cloud Home provides a reliable and convenient solution for storing, accessing, and managing surveillance footage, making it suitable for use in surveillance systems.

  • Can the NAS WD My Cloud Home be easily integrated with existing surveillance cameras and software, and what are the steps involved in setting it up for a surveillance system?

    The WD My Cloud Home is primarily designed as a personal cloud storage device and is not specifically built for integration with surveillance cameras and software. However, it is still possible to use it as part of a surveillance system with some additional steps. Here's a general outline of the process:

    1. Check camera compatibility: Ensure that your surveillance cameras support network-attached storage (NAS) functionality or have the capability to send footage to a NAS device.
    2. Connect the surveillance cameras: Connect your surveillance cameras to your local network using Ethernet cables or through Wi-Fi, depending on the camera's capabilities.
    3. Configure the cameras: Access the camera's settings through its web interface or dedicated software. Configure the camera to send footage to the NAS device by specifying the network path or IP address of the My Cloud Home.
    4. Set up the My Cloud Home: Connect the My Cloud Home to your local network using an Ethernet cable. Follow the provided instructions to set up the device and create a My Cloud Home account.
    5. Create shared folders: Once the My Cloud Home is set up, create shared folders that will be used to store the surveillance footage. You can create separate folders for different cameras or organize them as per your preference.
    6. Configure access permissions: Set access permissions for the shared folders to restrict or allow access to specific users or devices. This step ensures that only authorized individuals can access the surveillance footage.
    7. Access the surveillance footage: Install surveillance software on your computer or mobile device that can access the surveillance cameras and retrieve footage from the My Cloud Home. Configure the software to connect to the cameras and specify the network path or IP address of the My Cloud Home.
    8. Test the setup: Verify that the surveillance software can access the cameras and retrieve footage from the My Cloud Home. Perform test recordings and ensure that the footage is being stored correctly in the designated shared folders.

    It's important to note that the My Cloud Home may have limitations in terms of performance and compatibility compared to dedicated NAS devices designed specifically for surveillance systems. It's recommended to consult the My Cloud Home documentation or contact WD support for further assistance in integrating it with surveillance cameras and software.

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