Apple XServe RAID and Xsan Data Recovery
CERTIFIED AND SECURE APPLE XSERVE RAID AND XSAN DATA RECOVERY SERVICES.
Realtime Support Data Recovery provides round-the-clock data recovery services for Apple XServe RAID and Xsan systems. Despite the discontinuation of Xsan and Xserve by Apple, many users still rely on them to operate OS X Lion. A survey revealed that 65 percent of participants intend to persist in using Xsans and Xserves. Both Apple’s Xsan and Xserve support a diverse range of RAID levels, and Realtime Support Data Recovery leverages extensive engineering expertise with these systems to offer comprehensive services for all configurations.
The prevalent setup involves using RAID 5, which consists of a standard stripe set with parity. By default, the RAID stripe size is 64k (128 sectors), and data is distributed across all disks with a rotating parity block that employs the XOR algorithm.
In the event of a single disk failure in a standard RAID 5 setup, the RAID controller card can switch to degraded mode, allowing the server to function without any interruption. However, if essential parity blocks become corrupted or if another drive fails while the array is in a degraded state, data recovery may be required. Other potential causes of data loss are failed firmware upgrades, RAID controller card malfunctions, and natural disasters.
Xserve is compatible with hardware RAID levels 0, 1, 3, and 0+1. Additionally, RAID levels 10, 30, and 50 are accessible but require support from host-based software RAID. Our team of engineers is well-versed in all configurations, including those not directly supported by Xserve hardware. Furthermore, each of our labs is fully equipped for Xserve data recovery.
In 2009, the Xserve was on par with the Mac Pro in terms of power. Although today’s Mac Pros have outpaced the Xserve, both are suitable for running multiple services for hundreds of users. For very large networks, additional servers may be necessary to run certain services, but the Xserve is more adaptable to a growing network due to its easily upgradable processors.
The Xserve is specifically designed to handle critical operations without any server downtime caused by hardware failure. In comparison to the Mac Pro, it offers a higher level of reliability and may never require shutdown. However, unlike the Mac Pro, the Xserve is not suitable for placement in office or classroom settings due to its noise level. Instead, it is intended for installation in data centers or well-ventilated telecom closets.
Pros:The Xserve has a similar set of expansion slots and high-end hardware options. But the Xserve does have some advantages over the Mac Pro:
Features to keep it running and reduce downtime.
- An option of redundant power supply: if one power supply fails, the other takes over. Simply pull out a power supply and replace it — without shutting down the Xserve.
- *Hot-swappable hard drives: If a drive fails, you can pull out of Xserve without shutting it down or opening it. However, it has only three drive bays; the Mac Pro has four.
- *Temperature measurement: You can read the temperature from Lion Server’s admin tools and set the software to send you an alarm if the Xserve gets too hot.
Apple’s support site contains upgrade instructions for Xserve processors that are designated as officially user-upgradeable. By searching for Xserve processor, users can access manuals for various Xserve models.
- A removable lid that gives you easy access to everything inside.
- Mountable in a standard 19-inch rack.
Cons: Discontinued – Apple has discontinued the sale of Xsan, Xserve, and their parts. Nevertheless, you can still find new parts by searching online.
- Only three hard drive bays: The Xserve has one less than the Mac Pro. This is still a lot of storage but not enough to support an internal RAID 0+1, as can the Mac Pro.
- Heat: The Xserve gets very hot and requires adequate ventilation. You’ll be fine if you put it in a standard equipment rack, but think twice about stuffing it in a small, unventilated closet.
- Form factor: The long, flat shape is good for a rack but bad for an office or classroom setting.
- Noise: The Xserve is noisy and distracting sitting in the middle of an office or a classroom. If this is the only place for your server, consider the Mac Pro instead.
All of our engineers are Apple Xsan and Xserve data recovery certified experts with years of experience in performing Storage Area Network recovery.
- Certified Engineers
- Trusted & Secure: HIPPA & PCI compliant
- Lowest Price Guaranteed
- ISO 5 Class 100 clean room
- Propriety Tools & Techniques
- Highest Recovery Percentages in the industry
- No Data, No Charge: If for any reason we are unable to recover your data, there’s no charge.
Common Apple Xsan and Xserve Failures
Physical Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID Server Failure
The Apple Xsan and Xserve controllers, as well as the RAID controllers, are susceptible to physical failure just like any other electronic device. These failures can occur unexpectedly, leading to a frantic scramble to retrieve your data. A malfunctioning Apple Xsan and Xserve controller can lead to a loss of RAID configuration, false indications of drive failures, and other issues. This may involve the breakdown of components such as RAM, power supply, motherboard, or backplane. No matter the nature of the Apple Xsan and Xserve failure, our skilled engineers are capable of recovering your data.
Logical Failure of Apple Xsan and Xserve
When the operating system is corrupted, it experiences logical failures. These can result from various factors such as virus attacks, improper shutdowns due to power surges or failures, updates, or user errors that damage the system to the extent that it fails to boot properly. When this occurs, access to data is lost and consultation with our Xsan and Xserve engineers is necessary to determine the next steps.
User Error
If your network attached storage device experiences accidental data deletion or if the Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID configuration becomes corrupted or formatted, there is a high probability that we can successfully retrieve all your files. In the event of user error, it is crucial to cease usage and power off the device, as any further actions significantly diminish the likelihood of a complete recovery.
Physical Hard Drive Failure of Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID Hard Drives
If the mechanical components of your Xsan and Xserve hard drives fail, it results in physical hard drive failure. Recovery of data from such failures typically necessitates clean room procedures. Should any of your APPLE Xsan and Xserve RAID member drives encounter mechanical issues, seeking professional data recovery services is essential for retrieving crucial files. Our engineers possess the expertise, tools, and facilities to mend your Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID member hard drive and promptly retrieve your files within our class 100 clean room environment.
What to do when your Xsan and Xserve RAID fails.
- Do not run any chkdsk options like Disk Utilities. These utilities can corrupt or destroy your file system.
- Do not try to rebuild the RAID array. Doing so can wipe out data needed to recover the data you are seeking.
- Do not remove several failed drives at once hoping to reinitialize the array.
- Do not lose the correct order of the drives in the array.
- Do not try to repair any damaged drives yourself.
There are situations where we may not require the complete Xsan and Xserve server or device, but only the hard drives. If we ask for you to send only the drives, please ensure that you label them in the correct order when preparing to ship them out. This will help us save time when virtually rebuilding the array. Additionally, please provide information on the type of RAID array, server, filesystem, and operating system being used. If possible, specify which drives are faulty and which one failed most recently.
**Important** We need all original disks that were in the array the last time it was operating normally.
Most data recovery companies do not provide free diagnostics for Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID due to the extensive time required. However, we offer a fixed-rate fee structure for Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID data recovery. Our Storage Area Network recovery specialist will gather information from you over the phone to provide an initial estimate. While our fixed-rate fees cover Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID recovery, the actual cost may vary based on specific circumstances. Our competitive fixed-rate fee structure ensures that our prices are unmatched by any other service provider. We advise against attempting to repair the Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID yourself, as this could potentially cause irreparable damage. Please contact us before taking any DIY action.
What You Can Expect during your Apple Xsan and Xserve Data Recovery Process:
- You will be assigned a personal service representative for your project who will guide you through the process.
- The data recovery process can take 7 to 10 business days based on many factors, see below.
- The assigned service representative will be in daily communication with the data recovery technician working on your case and keep you up-to-date with the recovery progress.
How Long Does Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID Recovery Take?
Most customers inquire about the duration of the recovery process as one of their initial questions. It’s difficult to provide a definitive answer, as each case varies. While some Apple Xsan and Xserve arrays can be reconstructed within a day or two, several factors can influence the overall time required for data recovery.
Hardware Condition – A fully functional drive allows for much faster data recovery compared to a severely damaged drive in need of repair. Cases involving accidental deletion, formatting, viruses, and similar issues typically have a quick turnaround time, usually within 24 to 48 hours for most instances, although there are exceptions. Drives requiring hardware recovery generally take about 7 to 10 days, but may take longer depending on other factors.
Drive / Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID Array Size – Despite being fully functional, a 4Tb drive can take up to 20 hours to complete a single scan, and multiple scans may be required for a typical recovery to locate all files effectively. As part of our professional data recovery process, we always begin by cloning the drive to eliminate any potential accidents while handling the data. Generally, drives larger than 500Gb will require an additional day, while drives larger than 2Tb may need a few extra days. Furthermore, substantial time should be expected for very large Apple Xsan and Xserve arrays.
Number of Failed Drives – The turnaround time in striped Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID arrays can be impacted by the number of failed drives. In cases of multiple failures, all drives need to be examined to identify which hard drive(s) went offline first, ensuring that the accurate data is utilized during the rebuild process.
Availability of Donor Parts – When dealing with drives that have hardware problems, it is often necessary to obtain parts in order to restore the drive to a partially functional state where the data can be extracted successfully. Certain sub-models of hard drives are readily available and easy to source parts for from our suppliers, while others are more difficult to find. In some cases, we may need to dedicate several weeks to searching online and contacting other data recovery facilities in order to locate the specific drive or parts we require. Alternatively, we may need to purchase a donor drive from another country and await its delivery. This aspect of the process typically constitutes the lengthiest stage of hardware-level recoveries.
Functionality of Drive After Repair – Numerous hard drive brands are not compatible with replacement parts and may not operate at their optimal capacity following internal repairs. Because hard drives write data on a microscopic level, even minor variations in the manufacturing of parts can lead to constant data re-reading. In some cases, it may take a month or longer to retrieve all the data after such repairs, although this is uncommon.
Pricing for Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID Data Recovery?
The pricing for recovering data from your Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID systems is determined by factors such as the number of drives, drive capacity, drive type, failure type, file and system type. While our fees for Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID recovery are set at a single rate, the cost may vary depending on specific circumstances. However, we assure you that our prices are highly competitive within the industry. In fact, we are committed to matching or beating the prices offered by any reputable data recovery company for Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID data recovery as part of our lowest price guarantee.
How Do I Get My Data Back After Recovery?
After the recovery process is finished, you have the option to provide your own return media. Typically, for Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID arrays, this would involve using a high-capacity external hard drive. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can purchase a new external hard drive from us at a competitive price and we will transfer the data onto it. In cases where there are very large Apple Xsan and Xserve arrays with substantial amounts of data, special arrangements may need to be made to transfer the data onto a Storage Area Network or another enclosure with Apple Xsan and Xserve RAID capabilities. If you require recovery from such an array, please get in touch with us for further information.
To get started…
Call and speak with a Realtime Support Data Recovery RAID specialist regarding your RAID 0 Data Recovery options. The specialist will need to gather some information from you in order to provide you with a ONE RATE fee to start, and then answer any questions you may have. Call 24/7 Toll Free at: (877) 215-1719.