RAID 1: The system for better fault management
While the RAID system overall makes it possible to optimise data storage by distributing it over several hard disks, each configuration has its own advantages.
RAID 1, which mirrors data, is especially recommended for those who are primarily looking for security and a basic level of system redundancy.
RAID 1 or RAID 0?
A RAID 1 configuration is one of the simplest RAID systems, working on the principle of mirroring. In other words, the disks in the cluster are organised into pairs. On each pair, data is written and read simultaneously. In short, RAID 1 has a level of system redundancy, which benefits data security; if one drive fails, it can still be read from the other, healthy drive.
RAID 0, like RAID 1, is one of the most used systems, which allows for an excellent distribution of writing data on several disks, but without any redundancy. RAID 0, also known as striping, allows access to several disks at the same time, which reduces the transmission time, therefore, gaining performance.
So, which is better, RAID 1 or RAID 0? The choice depends entirely on your requirements; RAID 1 provides you with system redundancy, while RAID 0 has great performance.
RAID 1 applied to an external hard drive
RAID technology is usually used on an internal hard disk, but it is also possible to apply this system to external hard disks. There are commercially available enclosures specifically designed to accommodate multiple hard drives. Compatibility with RAID systems is always indicated.
Because of the simplicity of a RAID 1 configuration, you will find external hard disk enclosures compatible with this system available to buy 'off the shelf'. After configuration, the benefits remain the same: the application of RAID 1 on an external hard drive provides a level of system redundancy and data security through a mirrored backup of the data.
Which is better: RAID 1 or RAID 5?
Thanks to mirroring, RAID 1 meets data security/system redundancy requirements. While a RAID 1 configuration is possible with just two disks, a minimum of three disks is required to create a RAID 5 system This system combines the concepts of RAID 0 striping and the RAID 1 parity system.
A RAID 5 configuration makes it possible to divide and distribute the data on several disks, but thanks to the parity system, users can recover all of their data if a disk fails. The RAID 5 approach offers a double advantage: performance and security, making it a great all round storage system.
How to install a hard drive in RAID 1
To install a hard drive in RAID 1, first, make sure your PC is compatible with this system. If you haven’t already, install a second hard drive to create the system. This second hard disk must be SATA type (Serial-ATA for Advanced Technology Attachment) with the same capacity as the first disk. A SATA cable and a Raid SATA controller will also be needed to install your RAID system.
The installation of a RAID system presents no risk but as a precaution, always back up your data beforehand. Install the second disk and activate the RAID in the Bios. Download and install a RAID management software and finally, duplicate the data from your original disk on the second freshly installed disk. If a drive fails, you will continue to work normally, except that you will be notified of the failure and you will need to replace the failed drive.
Can you have a NAS server in RAID 1?
The answer is yes. As a reminder, a NAS or Network Attached Storage is a standalone storage unit, which can be accessible from a local network (private or professional). This technology allows for the access and sharing of data from devices that are connected to the same network.
It is possible, for the sake of data security, to apply a RAID 1 configuration to a NAS system. The data will be distributed on several hard disks with a writing in parity, which guarantees the security of your information.
In any case, whether you use RAID 0, RAID 1 or RAID 5 in your NAS system, data loss can still occur. If you suffer a data loss from a NAS or RAID system, Ontrack has the expertise, experience and tools to recover your data.
We'll collect your device and perform an evaluation, free of charge.
Data recovery for single drives and smartphones starts from £478.80 (inclusive of VAT). The final price will be determined at the end of the evaluation, according to the complexity of the work involved and the urgency required.
To begin, start by clicking on the type of media from which you need data recovered. The evaluation time for single hard drives (HDD and SSD) is four hours*, and within 24 hours for RAID systems*. Other media, such as mobile phones do not require an evaluation to provide an accurate quotation.
*These are typical time frames and apply within normal business hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm). For an out of hours, emergency service, or for further assistance, please contact us on +44 (0)1372 741999.