Langmeier Backup

The abbreviation RAID stands for Redundant Array of Independent Disks, i.e. a redundant arrangement of independent hard disks. In plain language, it means that instead of a single hard disk, several similar disks are operated in a network. Depending on the design of the system, this can increase data security because identical files may be distributed across different hard disks. In addition to the aspect of better protection against data loss, this also offers speed advantages when accessing data, which is why RAID is primarily of interest for fast networks. In this context, people also like to talk about NAS, i.e. network-attached storage, which can be accessed by all computers in the connected network. However, not every NAS is automatically a RAID system.

Why multiple hard disks at all?

Hard disks can be used in different configurations in a network or in individual computers. A single drive, for example, cannot be a RAID system at all. The risk of data loss is very high, because if the hard disk is defective, data is lost without regular backups. Partitioning into different drives is possible, but does not protect against hardware failure of the individual disk. In a JBOD array, there are at least two hard disks that are combined into one large drive. The problem here is that if one disk fails, the other drives are also affected and it can be difficult or even impossible to read the data. This is why regular data backups are important in all systems.

Different variants make RAID interesting for networks

RAID is available in different configurations, starting with two hard disks in RAID 0. The parallel storage of data on the different disks means that they can be accessed much faster, as parallel working is possible. However, this effect can be negated within a network due to the limits of the network speed. In terms of data security, RAID 0 is not much use, as the data is lost in the entire network if one disk fails. If the focus is less on operating speed and more on data security, RAID 1 and above is more interesting. Here, all data is stored twice on the various drives. This means that you always have a duplicate of the files on another disk, but naturally lose half of the effective storage space. This also applies to other RAID versions in which additional hard disks are used in different configurations for security reasons. In this case, the available storage space can be used more intelligently.

A RAID can never replace a data backup

However, regardless of the number of hard disks and the RAID mode used, data loss can still occur. If data is written incorrectly, if there is a virus or a software error, these problems are also transferred to the copied data and may be unusable despite multiple executions. Furthermore, accidentally deleted files cannot simply be restored. Therefore, despite RAID, regular backups should not be neglected under any circumstances. Only regular data backups can guarantee recovery in an emergency. RAID ensures (especially in the higher expansion stages) that work in the network can continue uninterrupted if one (or more) disks should fail. These can then be replaced during operation without having to stop working on the data. However, it is not recommended to do without a backup because of RAID.

Look it up further: RAID, Backup, Langmeier Backup, Data backup, NAS backup, Data loss

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