Server & RAID Data Recovery

RAID(Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks)

This is a term used to describe an array of hard drives that allow the division or duplication of data across multiple disks. RAID arrays are most commonly found in storage servers where the benefits, such as increased access speeds and higher capacity can be put to good use.

RAID arrays and servers often hold data that is deemed too important to be stored on a normal computer. This means that we are often asked to recover files that are essential for either sentimental value or to a company's continuity.

We have succesfully recovered RAID arrays from a wide variety of situations. If your RAID array or server has been in a fire, a flood or has reported a failed array, call us and let us take a look at it for free to see what can be done about recovering your files.

Whatever the issue may be, we will always give your case the attention it needs for a realistic and competitive, no obligation quote.

Click HERE to read about a recovery we completed for a typical server with a RAID array.

Types of RAID

Below is a list of common RAID settings.

RAID 0 (Striped)

RAID 0 offers no redundancy however, it does offer improved access speeds as well as no lost capacity of the drives. The downside is that, if even one of the drives fails the whole array will be lost and will be in need of data recovery.

RAID 1 (Mirror)

This array setting makes a mirror image of the data on every drive giving low chance of data loss. What is gained in redundancy is lost in capacity. For example a RAID 1 containing 2 500GB disks would only have a total capacity of 500GB. Even if a third 500GB disk was added the total capacity would still only be 500GB. While it is unlikely that all 3 disks would fail simultaneously electrical surges, fires or floods could still wipe out all the drives at once.

RAID 5 (Striped with Parity)

An array made up of three or more disks. Striping the data like RAID 0 however the storage space equivalent to one disk is used as parity. Only one disk is sacrificed to ensure redundancy so the array will have more capacity than a RAID 1 array. If more than one disk fails the RAID will require recovery.

RAID 6(Striped with Dual Parity)

Very similar to RAID 5 with the exception as an additional disk is used for parity. This type of array can withstand up to 2 disks failing.

DataWreck has experience in recovering data from all types of RAID array and operating system. All the drives in an array may suffer from any of the problems that individual drives may experience. Please see our Hard Drive Recovery page for information on common types of failure.

Additional types of damage which may affect arrays include: Electrical failure or corruption of the RAID controller card, wrong drives added for reconstruction/failure of reconstruction, drives fail to mount, multiple drive failure.

Please note: Without performing an analysis it is impossible to exactly determine the type of fault your media has suffered.