QNAP NAS Error Code 63: How to Fix It

Q: Will QNAP Error Code 63 cause me to lose data on my NAS?

Error Code 63 specifically refers to a failed cache pool, not the main storage pool. Your actual data stored on the NAS volumes should remain intact. However, a failed cache pool can degrade performance significantly. You should still address the error promptly, and always maintain current backups of important data regardless of NAS health status.

Q: Can I continue using my QNAP NAS while Error Code 63 is active?

Yes, your NAS should remain operational and data should still be accessible because the cache pool is separate from the primary storage pool. However, read and write speeds may be noticeably slower without a functioning cache. It is recommended to resolve the error as soon as possible and avoid storing new critical data until the issue is fixed.

Q: What type of drive should I use to replace the failed cache drive on my QNAP NAS?

QNAP recommends using SSDs for cache pools to maximize performance benefits. You should use an SSD that appears on QNAP's official compatibility list for your specific NAS model, which can be found at qnap.com/compatibility. Common choices include M.2 NVMe or SATA SSDs depending on your NAS model's available slots. Avoid using drives not on the compatibility list as they may cause further errors.

Q: How do I prevent QNAP cache pool errors in the future?

To minimize the risk of cache pool failures: use only QNAP-compatible drives; keep QTS firmware up to date; monitor drive health regularly using the built-in SMART test tool; ensure your NAS has adequate ventilation to prevent overheating, which can shorten SSD lifespan; and use a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) to protect against sudden power loss that can corrupt cache data.

Q: Why does QNAP Error Code 63 keep coming back after I fix it?

Recurring Error Code 63 usually indicates an underlying hardware issue such as a failing cache SSD, a problematic drive bay, or a loose connection. It can also be caused by firmware bugs — check for the latest QTS updates. If the error returns repeatedly with the same drive, that drive is likely degrading and should be replaced. If it returns with a new drive, the drive bay or NAS motherboard connector may be faulty and you should contact QNAP support.

Abstract

QNAP NAS Error Code 63 indicates that the cache pool on your NAS device has failed, which means the SSD or drive assigned to accelerate read/write operations is no longer functioning correctly. This typically occurs due to a degraded or missing cache drive, a misconfigured cache pool, or a firmware/software issue in QTS. While this error is rated medium severity, it can significantly impact NAS performance and should be addressed promptly to prevent data access problems.