Setting up RAID 1 involves creating a mirrored array, where data is duplicated across two or more hard drives. This provides redundancy, as data remains accessible if one drive fails. Here's a basic guide for setting up RAID 1:
**Note:** The steps may vary slightly depending on your specific hardware and RAID controller.
1. **Backup Data:**
- Before setting up RAID 1, ensure all important data is backed up. The RAID setup process involves formatting drives, which will erase existing data.
2. **Select Hard Drives:**
- Ensure you have at least two identical hard drives for RAID 1.
3. **Access RAID Controller:**
- Access your computer's RAID controller. This can be a hardware RAID controller on the motherboard or a separate RAID card.
4. **Enable RAID in BIOS/UEFI:**
- Access the system's BIOS/UEFI settings and enable RAID functionality if it's not already enabled.
5. **Configure RAID:**
- Enter the RAID configuration utility during the boot process (usually by pressing a specific key, such as Ctrl+I for Intel RAID). Create a RAID 1 array.
6. **Add Drives to Array:**
- Add the selected hard drives to the RAID 1 array. Specify which drives will be part of the RAID setup.
7. **Configure RAID Settings:**
- For RAID 1, there might be minimal configuration. Ensure that mirroring is set up, which means data will be duplicated across the drives.
8. **Initialize and Format:**
- After configuring RAID 1, initialize the array. This process prepares the drives for use. Once initialized, format the RAID volume to make it usable by the operating system.
9. **Install Operating System:**
- Install the operating system on the RAID 1 volume. During the installation process, you may need to load RAID drivers if prompted.
10. **Verify RAID Configuration:**
- After the operating system is installed, verify the RAID 1 configuration using the RAID management tools or software provided by the RAID controller.
11. **Test Redundancy:**
- Safely test the redundancy by pulling out one drive (if supported by your RAID controller). The system should continue operating, and data should be accessible.
Remember that RAID 1 provides redundancy but does not necessarily improve performance. It is a good choice for those who prioritize data protection over increased storage capacity or performance. Regular backups are still recommended for comprehensive data protection.