RAID
RAID is a computer acronym meaning “Redundant Array of Independent Disks.” Wikipedia. In this case we’re talking about “mirrored” disks, one of the simplest RAID configurations, where two identical disks contain identical data so that one can continue operating if the other fails. Since they contain the same data the second disk doesn’t add any disk capacity, but it does add reliability. Pros:
- The hard disk is MUCH less apt to crash. Only people who have experienced a crash can fully appreciate this.
- Perhaps I can get away with less backup, e.g. only back up the most sensitive data.
- Or, I can buy a THIRD drive and hot-swap it, so the swapped-out drive is the backup.
- I’d enjoy the experience of setting it up and using it.
Cons:
- It’s more expensive: I need two drives, not one, and the motherboard (which manages the drives) costs a little more.
- The drives will make twice as much noise. Hmmm.
- It doesn’t solve ALL backup problems: If I accidentally permanently delete a file, it will be gone on BOTH drives; if lightning hits the computer it could easily take out both drives.
I’m leaning toward…
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Written by Don on August 24th, 2007 with no comments.
Read more articles on quiet and E6750 and mirrored disks and otherSoftware and computer and raid and Computer.
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