QNAP NAS Error Code 64: How to Fix It

Q: Will QNAP Error Code 64 cause me to lose data?

Error Code 64 specifically affects the SSD cache layer, not your primary storage volumes. Data stored on your main hard drives or SSDs in the RAID volume should remain intact. However, if the cache was in write-back mode, a small amount of recently written data that had not yet been flushed to the primary volume could be at risk. Always ensure your primary volumes show a 'Ready' or 'Normal' status and maintain regular backups to minimize any data loss risk.

Q: Can I still use my QNAP NAS while Error Code 64 is active?

Yes, your NAS will generally continue to function with Error Code 64 active. The primary storage volumes remain accessible to users and connected devices. However, you will lose the performance benefits of SSD caching, which may cause slower read and write speeds depending on your workload. It is still advisable to resolve the error promptly to restore full performance and avoid any further hardware degradation.

Q: How do I know if my SSD is compatible with my QNAP NAS model?

QNAP maintains an official hardware compatibility list on their website at qnap.com. Navigate to the compatibility section, select your NAS model, and filter by SSD type (SATA SSD or NVMe M.2 SSD depending on your model's slots). Only purchase drives listed as compatible to avoid recurring errors, firmware conflicts, or unsupported drive warnings in QTS.

Q: What is the difference between SSD cache read-only and write-back mode, and does it affect this error?

In read-only mode, the SSD cache stores frequently accessed data to speed up read operations. In write-back mode, data is written to the SSD cache first before being committed to primary storage, which speeds up writes but carries a small risk if the cache drive fails before data is flushed. Error Code 64 can occur in both modes, but write-back mode carries slightly higher data risk upon cache failure. After resolving Error Code 64, consider switching to read-only mode if data safety is the top priority.

Q: How often should I replace the SSD used for QNAP cache?

SSD lifespan depends on the drive's TBW (terabytes written) rating and how intensively the cache is used. Monitor the S.M.A.R.T. 'Wear Leveling Count' and 'Remaining Life' attributes regularly in QTS. Most enterprise-grade SSDs used for caching last 3-5 years under heavy workloads, while consumer-grade SSDs may wear faster. QNAP QTS will generate warnings as the drive approaches end of life, so keeping notifications enabled is the best way to stay ahead of failures.

Abstract

QNAP NAS Error Code 64 indicates that one or more SSD drives assigned to the SSD cache have failed or become unreadable by the system. This error is considered medium severity because while your NAS may continue operating using the primary storage volumes, the read/write performance boost provided by the SSD cache is lost and the failed drive could signal broader hardware issues. Addressing this promptly is important to restore full system performance and prevent potential data integrity risks.