RAID 5 Data Recovery in London
Two disks failed, a rebuild went wrong or the controller lost the array? We rebuild RAID 5 arrays safely.
RAID 5 recovery specialists
RAID 5 spreads data and parity across three or more disks, so it survives a single disk failure. When a second disk fails, a rebuild crashes or the controller loses its configuration, the whole volume goes offline. Data Doctor recovers RAID 5 arrays from servers, NAS devices and desktop storage for businesses, studios and home users across the UK, with a free initial consultation, published prices and emergency options.
Why RAID 5 arrays fail
- Second disk failure while the array is degraded – very common with disks bought in the same batch.
- Failed or interrupted rebuild after a disk is replaced.
- Wrong disk replaced or disks put back in the wrong order.
- Controller failure or lost RAID metadata.
- Accidental re-initialisation or a new array created over the old one.
- File system corruption on top of a working array.
Over 95% Success Rate on RAID 5 Data Data Recovery
Why a second disk often fails during a rebuild
A rebuild reads every sector of every remaining disk. Disks in the same array are usually the same age and model, so if one has worn out the others may be close behind. The extra stress of a rebuild is often what pushes a weak disk over the edge – and at that point the array goes offline. That’s why we always recommend imaging the disks before any rebuild is attempted on an array holding important data.
How we recover a RAID 5
- Disk-by-disk diagnosis – every member disk is tested; physically failed disks are repaired in our clean room.
- Imaging – each disk is cloned, so the originals are never written to.
- Parameter detection – we work out disk order, stripe size, parity rotation and offsets.
- Virtual rebuild – the array is reassembled in software and the file system is rebuilt.
- Verification – we check key files, databases and VMs before returning the data.
Systems we support
We recover RAID 5 from HP and Dell servers, Synology, QNAP, Drobo and G-Technology units, Promise Pegasus and software RAID on Windows, Linux and macOS.
RAID 5 is not a backup
RAID 5 protects against one disk failing – not against deletion, ransomware, controller faults, fire or theft. After your recovery, we recommend a separate backup, ideally with one copy offsite or in the cloud. Read our guide to what can go wrong with a RAID system.
If your RAID 5 has failed
- Don’t start another rebuild or run file system repair.
- Don’t re-initialise or create a new array.
- Label each disk with its bay number before removing it.
- Call 020 7394 2529 for advice before you do anything else.
Frequently asked questions
Can RAID 5 be recovered after two disks fail?
Usually, yes. The failed disks are often only partly faulty, so we repair and image them, then use parity to rebuild the missing data.
How long does RAID 5 recovery take?
Diagnosis is normally completed within 24–48 hours, depending on the number of disks. Most recoveries take a few working days; emergency service is available.
Do you need the RAID controller?
Usually not – we rebuild arrays in software. For hardware-encrypted systems we may ask for the controller or NAS unit too.
Can you recover a RAID 5 after it was re-initialised?
Often, yes. Initialisation doesn’t always overwrite the data area. Stop using the array and contact us straight away.
What does RAID 5 recovery cost?
RAID 5, 6 and 10 recovery costs between £850 + VAT and £1,500 + VAT depending on the number of drives to repair and rebuild (2 to 10 drives). The initial consultation is free.