A Redundant Array of Independent Disks is a system used for data storage by individuals and businesses of all sizes. RAIDs provide high storage capacity, as they use more than one hard drive for processing the data. There are different levels of RAIDs designed to meet various needs and purposes of the users.
Due to RAID’s redundancy, many users think they are error-proof. In addition, some use this device as their backup system. However, as with any device, RAID arrays are susceptible to failures and data loss.
Power Surge or Outage
Power Surge and Outages are unexpected issues that can cause data loss and failure on RAID. Power surges often lead to RAID controller malfunction.
The controller manages all hard drives in the RAID array. Thus, if it fails, users will be unable to access the data on the drives. When this kind of failure occurs, the device’s performance significantly decreases, making the failure noticeable.
Many users try to restore the system themselves. However, it will only worsen the situation leading to complete data loss. Do not risk your valuable data using DIY recovery tools. Instead, entrust your case to professionals.
Natural Disasters
The infrastructure of the RAID makes this device sensitive to failures. The hard drive inside the RAID can be damaged by external factors, causing files inaccessibility.
The most common hard disk drive failure cause is read-write head damage. In this case, heads will get into direct contact with the platter, scratching all the valuable files.
Nowadays, people have started implementing SSD technology instead of HDD to make the RAID more durable. Nevertheless, SSDs are also prone to failures and need a more specialized approach in case of data loss.
RAID’s data can get inaccessible due to natural disasters such as floods, fires, earthquakes, or any other inevitable accidents. Under these circumstances, RAID will be severely affected.
Hard Drive’s Printed Circuit Board Corruption
If the hard drive’s circuit board is damaged, the drive’s failure is inevitable. Under these circumstances, RAID will be damaged, and the data on it will become inaccessible.
Some users assume they can solve the problem by replacing the circuit board with the new one. Unfortunately, that is not true, as each hard drive has its unique PCB. When you replace it, you do not solve the problem but make it worse. So, when the circuit board gets corrupted, it is better to reach out to the data recovery engineers.
Human Errors
Human error is another common reason for RAID data loss. Accidental file deletion, formatting, and other causes can be defined as human error. Whatever caused the deletion or corruption, it is important not to overwrite data.
It is essential not to use data recovery software to restore your data when it was accidentally deleted. These tools do not guarantee successful results and can overwrite your data, making it permanently lost.
Malware and Virus Attacks
Malware is a logical cause of RAID data corruption. A virus can enter the system without the user’s noticing. Viruses usually spread slowly, damaging all the vital files, not to draw attention.
Users can use antivirus programs to protect their devices from malware. However, there is always a chance of an unknown virus entering your system.
Failed Rebuilds
There are safeguards on the RAID systems to protect data when new members are integrated. So, the arrays become sensitive during rebuilds.
If an error of rebuilds occurred once, do not try to rebuild the arrays again. Keep the system powered off until you can get a professional evaluation from a data recovery company. Start to recover data with PITS Global Data Recovery Services. You can reach us by calling (888) 611 0737 or submitting the Request Help form.
Why do Different RAID Levels Fail?
RAID 0 Failure
RAID 0 array provides high data access speed and performance but does not protect it from external threats. It does not make an additional copy on separate RAID 0 drives. So, when one of the drives fails, it affects all drives in the system, and the user loses data and can not access it.
RAID 5 Failure
RAID 5 functions properly after one drive failure. Nonetheless, if you continue using the device, you risk losing access to all of your data. Thus, when noticing unusual behavior on your RAID, entrust your device to professionals. Consulting with a data recovery company is the best option for saving your data.
RAID 6 Failure
After two drives fail on the RAID 6 array, other drives start to receive a lot of pressure and become prone to damage. You can notice the failure by monitoring the system's performance; accessing files takes longer, frequent error messages may occur, and the overall speed of operation is significantly decreased.
Although RAID systems are redundant, reliable, and fault-tolerant, they also can be damaged and restrict access to your data. RAID has a complicated structure, which must be thoroughly expected by experts in case of failure. Hence, for such a complex process as the RAID data recovery, it is preferable to request help from a company specialized in Redundant Arrays of Independent Disks.
Our data recovery engineers have years of experience working on various types of RAID levels, RAID disks, and data loss scenarios. We provide each case with an individual approach and work on the devices only in specialized facilities. The high success of recovery is a priority for us, so we do everything to achieve it.
Request help from our engineers by filling out the request help form or calling our customer service line at (888) 611 0737. Our team will gladly provide answers to all your questions.