QNAP NAS Error Code 14: How to Fix It

Medium 2–6 hours (including data backup and RAID rebuild) Critical Severity Verified June 2026
Summarize with ChatGPTSummarize with ClaudeSummarize with Perplexity Add as Preferred Source on Google
Error Code
14
Brand
QNAP
Product Type
nas
Severity
Critical
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
2–6 hours (including data backup and RAID rebuild)
QNAP Error Code 14 indicates a critical disk failure on your NAS device, meaning one or more hard drives have stopped responding or have developed serious read/write errors. This is a severe alert that puts your stored data at immediate risk, especially if your NAS is running a non-redundant storage configuration. Acting quickly to back up accessible data and diagnose the failed drive is essential to preventing permanent data loss.
Ad

Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 14

  1. Do Not Power Off — Check the QTS Dashboard First

    Do not power cycle the NAS without first checking whether a RAID rebuild or data recovery is possible through the software interface.

  2. Check SMART Data for the Failed Drive

  3. Run a SMART Extended Test

    If the NAS is already showing I/O errors or the volume is degraded, skip this step and proceed directly to data backup to avoid further damage.

  4. Back Up All Accessible Data Immediately

    This step is your highest priority. Data on a failing drive can become completely unreadable at any moment. Do not skip this step.

  5. Check Your RAID or Volume Status

  6. Power Down Safely and Remove the Failed Drive

    Always power off and unplug the NAS before physically removing or installing drives, unless your model supports hot-swapping and you are replacing a drive in a redundant RAID array.

  7. Install a Replacement Drive

    Using a drive not on QNAP's compatibility list may result in instability or the drive not being recognized. Always verify compatibility before purchasing.

  8. Rebuild the RAID Array (If Applicable)

    Do not remove any additional drives or power off the NAS during a RAID rebuild. A second drive failure during rebuild will likely result in total data loss.

  9. Update Firmware and Monitor Drive Health Going Forward

Parts You May Need

NAS hard drive (replacement)
Check Price on Amazon
Drive tray caddy screws
Check Price on Amazon
External USB hard drive
Check Price on Amazon
NAS hard drive (replacement)
Check Price on Amazon
Drive tray caddy screws
Check Price on Amazon
External USB hard drive
Check Price on Amazon
NAS hard drive (replacement)
Check Price on Amazon
Drive tray caddy screws
Check Price on Amazon
External USB hard drive
Check Price on Amazon
Ad

When to Call a Professional

Contact a professional data recovery service if: (1) your NAS is running JBOD or a single-drive setup and the drive has physically failed before you could back up your data; (2) the storage pool shows 'Inactive' and no data is accessible; (3) you hear clicking, grinding, or beeping from the failed drive — these are signs of mechanical failure that requires a clean-room data recovery specialist. Do not attempt to run DIY recovery software on a mechanically damaged drive as it can cause permanent, irreversible data loss. If you are a business with critical data and no recent backup, contact a professional data recovery service before taking any further action.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does QNAP Error Code 14 mean?
QNAP Error Code 14 signals a disk failure, meaning one of the hard drives installed in your NAS has stopped working correctly or has developed critical read/write errors. It is a severe alert that requires immediate action to protect your data.
Will I lose all my data when QNAP Error Code 14 appears?
Not necessarily. If your NAS uses a redundant RAID configuration (such as RAID 1, 5, 6, or 10), the system can tolerate one (or more, for RAID 6) drive failures without data loss. However, if you are using JBOD, a single drive, or RAID 0, a disk failure likely means the data on that drive is lost unless professional recovery is performed. Act quickly to back up any data that is still accessible.
Can I replace the failed drive myself?
Yes, replacing the drive is a DIY-friendly task for most users. You need to identify the failed bay in the QTS interface, power down the NAS, remove the failed drive, install a compatible replacement, and let QTS rebuild the RAID array. The process takes a few hours but does not require advanced technical skills.
How long does a QNAP RAID rebuild take after replacing a failed drive?
RAID rebuild times depend on the size of the drives and the RAID level. As a rough guide, expect about 8–12 hours for a 4TB drive in a RAID 5 array. Larger drives (8TB, 12TB, 16TB) can take 24 hours or more. Your NAS remains accessible during the rebuild but will run slower than normal.
How do I prevent QNAP disk failure errors in the future?
Use NAS-rated hard drives (such as those specifically designed for 24/7 NAS operation) which are built for continuous use. Enable scheduled SMART tests in QTS and set up email or push notification alerts so you receive early warnings. Maintain a regular off-site or cloud backup so a single drive failure never results in permanent data loss. Also ensure your NAS has adequate ventilation to prevent heat-related drive failures.

Related Error Codes