Computers access data on hard drives. Multiple hard drives can be used separately in a computer, or, the hard drives can be configured to work together in a RAID (Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks). There at least 10 different RAID setups, each with different goals. RAID 1 is a configuration in which at least two hard drives share exactly the same data. That is, data on one drive is mirrored to every other. If one drive fails, the others can be used for recovery purposes.

On the Other: Two Is Not Faster Than One

A RAID 1 setup is geared toward protecting data from loss; it's not for speed. Nonetheless, access speed in a RAID 1 setup is equal to or possibly slightly faster than access speed to a single hard drive. The potential exists for slightly slower performance during periods when data is being written to the hard drives. A RAID 0 setup aims for maximum access speed. Alternatively, a RAID 0+1 array combines the benefits of both setups, but it requires a minimum of four hard drives.

Bottom Line

RAID 1 provides protection from data loss and has either minimal or no impact on performance. For performance enhancement, use a different RAID setup.

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Government Video: RAID Rage

Advanced Horizons: RAID Explained