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How do I replace a NAS in an HA cluster?

Last modified date: 2025-07-04

Applicable Products

  • QuTS hero h5.3.0 or later
  • High Availability Manager

Scenario

In a high-availability (HA) cluster, if either the active or passive node fails or needs a hardware upgrade, the node can be replaced by migrating its disks to a new NAS. This avoids rebuilding the entire cluster and preserves all data and settings.

Procedure

  1. Prepare a new NAS to replace the old NAS.
    Important
    • Do not use a different NAS model for replacement. QNAP HA only supports clusters where both NAS devices are of the same model.
    • The memory configuration on the new NAS must be the same as the old NAS.
    • Do not power on the new NAS at this stage.
  2. If the old NAS is the active node in the cluster, first perform a switchover.
    You can skip this step if the old NAS is already the passive node.
    1. Log in to the old NAS (active node).
    2. Go to High Availability Manager > Cluster.
    3. Click Manage, and then select Switch Over.
    4. After the switchover is complete, ensure the following:
      • The other node is now the new active node.
      • The cluster status is “Good”.
  3. Shut down the old NAS (passive node).
    1. Log in to the other NAS (active node) in the cluster.
    2. Go to High Availability Manager > Nodes.
    3. Under the passive node, click , and then select Shut Down.

      High Availability Manager shuts down the old NAS.

    4. Remove all network cables from the old NAS.
      Important

      Remember which port each network cable is connected to. You will need to connect them to the same ports on the new NAS.

  4. Transfer all disks from the old NAS to the new NAS.
    Important
    • Ensure both NAS devices are powered off before you begin.
    • You must transfer the disks to the same slots in the same order on the new NAS.
      For example, if the old NAS has disk A installed in slot 1, disk B in slot 2, and disk C in slot 5, the new NAS must have the same disk configuration.
    • We recommend transferring one disk at a time to ensure the order and slot positions are preserved.
  5. Connect the network cables to the same ports on the new NAS as they were previously connected to on the old NAS.
  6. Power on the new NAS.

The system will automatically recognize the new NAS as a node and restore the original HA cluster status.

Further Reading

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