How to Extract Data from a RAID Disk When NAS ZyXel NAS326 is Not Booting Up

When your ⭐ NAS won't power up, extract data from RAID disks by connecting them to a PC, configuring RAID settings, and using recovery tools for data retrieval.

How to Extract Data from a RAID Disk When NAS ZyXel NAS326 is Not Booting Up

ZyXel NAS326 NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from NAS326.

How to Extract Data from a RAID Disk When NAS ZyXel NAS326 is Not Booting Up

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

Can the use of redundant power supplies reduce the chances of data loss on NAS ZyXel NAS326 devices?

Yes, the use of redundant power supplies can help reduce the chances of data loss on NAS ZyXel NAS326 devices. Redundant power supplies provide backup power in case one power supply fails, ensuring continuous operation of the NAS device. This helps to prevent unexpected shutdowns or power outages that could lead to data loss. By having a redundant power supply, the NAS device can maintain its availability and ensure data integrity and protection.

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

Although NAS NAS326 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 ZyXel NAS326. 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 ZyXel

How to recover data from a ZyXel

NAS326 has 2 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 0;
  • RAID 1;
  • JBOD;

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 ZyXel NAS326 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 NAS326, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Noam Lindley
    Noam Lindley 11.09.2023 14:44 #
    Are there any specific hardware requirements for data recovery from a NAS ZyXel NAS326 device?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 11.09.2023 15:59 #

      To perform data recovery from a ZyXel NAS326 device, there are no specific hardware requirements. However, you will need a computer or laptop with the following minimum specifications:

      1. Operating System: Windows, macOS, or Linux
      2. Processor: Intel Core i3 or above (or equivalent AMD processor)
      3. RAM: Minimum 4 GB (8 GB or more recommended for better performance)
      4. Storage: Sufficient free storage space to save the recovered data
      5. Network Interface: Ethernet port to connect to the NAS device
      6. USB Ports: At least one USB port to connect external storage devices if required
      7. Software: Data recovery software compatible with the NAS file system (e.g., NTFS, FAT32, exFAT, etc.)

      Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that the ZyXel NAS326 device is in working condition and properly connected to the network. The NAS device should be accessible and visible on the network for data recovery software to detect and recover the data.

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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 virtualization features offered by the ZyXel NAS326 network-attached storage (NAS) device?

    The ZyXel NAS326 network-attached storage (NAS) device offers several virtualization features, including:

    1. Virtualization Station: This feature allows you to run multiple operating systems and virtual machines on the NAS device. It supports various virtualization technologies such as VMware, Citrix, and Microsoft Hyper-V.
    2. Container Station: It enables you to run and manage multiple Linux containers directly on the NAS device. Containers provide lightweight and isolated environments for running applications.
    3. Virtual Switch: This feature allows you to create virtual networks and manage network traffic between virtual machines and containers. It provides better network performance and flexibility for virtualized environments.
    4. Virtual Network Interface: The NAS device supports multiple virtual network interfaces, allowing you to assign different IP addresses and network settings to each virtual machine or container.
    5. Snapshot: It provides a point-in-time copy of the virtual machine or container, allowing you to quickly revert to a previous state if needed. Snapshots can be used for backup, recovery, or testing purposes.
    6. Virtual Disk: This feature allows you to create virtual disks and allocate storage space to virtual machines or containers. It provides easy management and flexibility for storage allocation.

    These virtualization features enhance the functionality and versatility of the ZyXel NAS326, making it suitable for virtualized environments and applications.

  • How does the ZyXel NAS326 support virtualization and what are the benefits of using this feature?

    The ZyXel NAS326 supports virtualization through its Virtual Machine Manager (VMM) feature. VMM allows users to run multiple virtual machines (VMs) on the NAS device, creating a virtualized environment.

    The benefits of using virtualization on the ZyXel NAS326 are as follows:

    1. Cost-effective: By consolidating multiple VMs on a single physical NAS device, users can save on hardware costs as they don't need to purchase separate servers for each VM.
    2. Resource optimization: VMM allows users to allocate CPU, memory, and storage resources to each VM, ensuring optimal utilization of the NAS device's capabilities.
    3. Simplified management: With virtualization, users can manage multiple VMs through a single interface, making it easier to control and monitor the virtualized environment.
    4. Increased flexibility: Virtualization enables users to easily create, clone, and deploy VMs, facilitating quick provisioning and deployment of applications or services.
    5. Enhanced security: By isolating different VMs from each other, virtualization provides an added layer of security, minimizing the risk of cross-contamination or unauthorized access.
    6. Disaster recovery: Virtual machines can be easily backed up and restored, making disaster recovery processes more efficient and reliable.

    Overall, the virtualization feature on the ZyXel NAS326 offers users the ability to create a scalable, cost-effective, and efficient virtualized environment, enabling them to run multiple applications or services on a single device.

  • Can you provide examples of how the virtualization features of the ZyXel NAS326 can be utilized in a practical setting?

    Certainly! The virtualization features of the ZyXel NAS326 can be utilized in various practical settings. Here are a few examples:

    1. Virtual Private Network (VPN) Server: The NAS326 can act as a VPN server, allowing remote users to securely access the network resources. This can be useful for businesses with remote employees or for individuals who want to access their files securely while away from home.
    2. Virtual Machine Manager (VMM): The NAS326 supports running virtual machines (VMs) through its VMM feature. This enables users to run multiple operating systems on a single NAS device, making it ideal for testing and development environments. For example, you can create a VM to test software compatibility or run a different operating system for specific applications.
    3. Surveillance Station: The NAS326 can be used as a surveillance station by connecting IP cameras to it. With the virtualization features, you can create a dedicated VM to run the Surveillance Station software. This allows you to monitor and manage multiple cameras, record footage, and set up motion detection alerts.
    4. Web Server: If you have a website or web application, you can host it on the NAS326 by creating a VM with a web server installed. This enables you to have control over your website and data while utilizing the NAS device's storage capacity.
    5. Media Server: The NAS326 can function as a media server by running a VM with media server software. You can store and stream your media files to various devices within your network, such as smart TVs or media players.

    These are just a few practical examples of how the virtualization features of the ZyXel NAS326 can be utilized. The flexibility and versatility of these features allow users to customize the NAS device to suit their specific needs.

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