How to Perform RAID Array Growing
Here you will find out:
- what you need to do before RAID starts growing
- how to perform RAID array growing
- when DiskInternals can help you
Are you ready? Let's read!
What you need to do before software or hardware RAID starts growing
Backup is the first thing to do before RAID starts growing. Since the data must be distributed to the new disk, the old disks must be overwritten.
Perhaps your RAID requires formatting; as a rule, RAID cannot save data after this operation.
DiskInternals RAID Recovery can help you in case of loss of part or all of your data. You can also create a disk image and use it in the future if necessary. The application runs on Windows 7, 8 10, Vista, and Windows Server 2003-2019. While the application is running, the current state of the RAID array, controller file system and automatic file return, where possible, are checked.
Use the instructions below for this application, as this will facilitate the recovery process.
Download RAID Recovery, and then install the software on a supported OS.
Open RAID Recovery and launch the Recovery Wizard. You can also continue to work manually.
Then select the desired array to restore.
Decide on the scan mode:
- Fast recovery mode
- Full recovery mode
As soon as the search is completed, all found files will be displayed on the computer.
Browse these results for free.
To export recovered files to the location of your choice, buy a license for RAID Recovery.
The Export Wizard will help you complete the process. Technical support from the company's specialists will be available with a license as well.
4 steps to grow the RAID
Growing a RAID array refers to the process of expanding its storage capacity or altering its configuration to enhance performance or redundancy. Here are four general steps to increase the size of a RAID array, keeping in mind that the specific steps can vary based on the RAID level and hardware or software being used:
- Backup Your Data: Before making any changes to your RAID array, it's crucial to back up all data to prevent any potential loss. This step is fundamental because any error during the expansion process could lead to data corruption or loss.
- Add New Drives: Physically install additional drives into your system. Ensure that these new drives are compatible with your existing RAID array in terms of size and speed. The system may need to be powered down during this process, depending on whether it supports hot-swapping of drives.
- Expand the RAID Array: Use your RAID controller's utility software to add the new drives to the existing array. This process will vary depending on whether you are using hardware RAID, controlled by a dedicated RAID card, or software RAID, managed by your operating system. In some cases, especially with certain RAID levels like RAID 1 or RAID 5, the array will need to rebuild itself to incorporate the new drives, which can take several hours depending on the size of the drives and the speed of the controller.
- Extend the File System: Once the RAID array recognizes the new storage capacity, you need to expand the file system so that the additional space is usable. This step also varies depending on the operating system and file system in use. For instance, in Linux, you might use the
resize2fscommand for ext3 or ext4 file systems, while in Windows, you can extend the volume using the Disk Management tool.
Remember, the specific steps and commands will depend on your RAID setup (hardware or software) and the operating system. Always refer to your hardware manual or software documentation for detailed instructions tailored to your configuration.