RAID Servers and Data Protection: Common Myths about RAID Servers

Data security is the main issue in both small and large enterprises. Thus, many users think that RAID is an invincible solution for server storage. Despite their demand, there are many misconceptions about RAID servers and their ability to protect important data.

In this blog, we’ll learn about RAID servers and configurations, common myths about RAID Servers, why they solely are not enough for data security and RAID Server data recovery.

What is a RAID Server?

RAID is a data storage visualization technology that stores and manages data on multiple RAID drives or hard disk drives within a RAID array for improved performance and redundancy. The primary purpose of a RAID server is to protect data in case of drive failure. RAID Servers are used in various sectors involving small to large businesses as they provide improved storage efficiency and protection against data loss.

Understanding RAID Configurations

In the RAID system, data is distributed in various configurations called RAID levels. RAID levels define the specific data management and redundancy strategy. Now, let us have a deep understanding of some of the most popular RAID levels.

RAID 0  

•  Needs a minimum of two hard drives to work
•  High performance but no redundancy
•  100% use of combined disk space
•  No fault tolerance, if one disk fails the entire array fails 

RAID 1

•  Uses a minimum of two hard drives
•  Provide improved read speed and higher redundancy
•  Since data is mirrored 50% of the total disk space is used
•  Tolerance of one failed drive

RAID 5

• Stripes data on a minimum of three drives
• Good read performance plus moderate write performance with moderate redundancy
• It uses 75% of the total disk space
• Can withstand one disk failure without data loss

RAID 6

• Uses a minimum of four hard drives to work
• Moderate performance with very high redundancy
• Utilizes half of the total disk space
• Very high fault tolerance up to two disk failures

RAID 10

• A minimum of four hard drives are required
• Excellent performance and high redundancy
•  50% of the total disk space is used
•  Tolerance of one failed drive

Some Common Misconceptions about RAID Servers

RAID Servers are backups

One of the most permeative myths about RAID servers is they do not need regular backups. The truth is RAID offers redundancy but no backups. Raid can handle failure of individual drives but it cannot prevent loss due to accidental deletion, file corruption, malware corruption, or events like fire or flooding. RAID Data Recovery without backups can be challenging.

RAID works the same for all workloads

Many users believe that all RAID configurations apply to all workloads. But in reality, different RAID levels are optimised for different purposes. RAID 0’s main purpose is to improve server performance, while RAID 5 or RAID 6 is better for systems prioritizing redundancy. Not choosing the correct RAID level for your needs can Decrease the chances of a successful server data recovery

 All RAID levels have redundancies

One misinterpretation among users is that every rate configuration provides the same level of data protection.  But authentically not all RAID levels provide redundancy. Only those RAID levels that engage in mirroring, or mirroring and striping together offer redundancy as the failure of individual drives in the array does not affect the overall system. Even though redundancy-proof arrays continue to function after losing one (or more) drive, it is understood that you should replace them without delay.

Two or more raid drives will never fail together

Another misconception is that a RAID system will never face the failure of multiple drives at a time. But environmental conditions, such as power surges, heat, or physical shock and logical issues like corrupted RAID controllers or software errors can render multiple drives failure. Also, RAID arrays often use drives from the same manufacturer and batch, meaning they have similar lifespans and are subject to the same wear and tear, therefore, if one drive fails the second drive is also likely to fail within a short period of time.

Why RAID Storage isn’t Always Enough

1. Human Errors

It is not possible for RAID configurations to protect against human blunders like accidental deletion or overwriting of files as these types of errors can lead to permanent loss of data without backup.

 2. Logical Failure

RAID arrays always have the risk of logical failures, like file system corruption or malware attacks. Even a redundant RAID configuration can not restore corrupted data in such cases. Thus, RAID data recovery becomes necessary to recover critical files.

 3. Simultaneous Drive Failures

Although RAID is not unbeatable, it is designed to tolerate some level of drive failure. For example, in RAID 5, the simultaneous failure of two or more drives can leave the array unusable. To recover from such situations Professional RAID server data recovery services are often required.

 4. RAID Controller Failures

The RAID controller functions as the primary processing unit for the array. In the event of its failure, the whole RAID setup can become unreachable, irrespective of the health of individual drives. In such cases, Server Data recovery experts can help rebuild the array and recover any lost data.

The Role of RAID Data Recovery Services

In case of RAID system failures, struggling with DIY recovery can even worsen the problem. Thus, Professional RAID data recovery services are provided with the tools and expertise to retrieve data from complex scenarios, like:

• Failure in RAID controllers
• Corrupted file systems
• Simultaneous drive failures
• Accidental array reconfigurations

These services keep minimum downtime and enhance data recovery, which makes them essential for companies that depend on RAID services.

Winding Up

While RAID offers various benefits such as data redundancy and performance improvements, it cannot be a one-stop solution for data protection because it’s important to learn about the limitations of RAID and take preventive measures such as regular backups and offsite storage to protect data, lost due to corruption, accidental deletion, or any other event and make it simpler for  RAID server data recovery experts to easily retrieve your lost data.

Frequently Asked Questions