How to Recover and Repair RAID 5 Arrays

RAID 5 is one of the most popular RAID arrays that are in use. Companies use RAID 5 array to distribute their data across multiple drives and hence increase redundancy. When one of the drives of the entire RAID 5 array fails, it is possible to work with data available in the other drives. And at the same time, RAID 5 recovery and repair can be done on the drive that has failed.

It is first important to ascertain whether the RAID failure is a software failure or a hardware failure. In case there is a hardware failure due to a failed motherboard or CPU, it is possible to repair the RAID 5 and undertake data recovery by simply replacing the failed hardware. Don’t go for those software programs in this case. You don’t need to spend on them.

If there is an issue with the software then it is worthwhile opting for expert opinion. A software RAID array failure is best handled by those that earn their bread by repairing RAID arrays and recovering the data. If you search your locality you will find many vendors who can do this job for you. In fact, even if you opt for a vendor that is remotely located, they can undertake your RAID data recovery online.

There are some simple steps associated with RAID 5 repair and recovery that come handy. When there is a RAID 5 failure, please don’t power cycle and reset repeatedly or defragment the failed drive. Simply turn off the system and inform your vendor about the failure. The next step is to remove the entire RAID drive from the server and label individual drives. You can now deliver the entire volume to your vendor. Meanwhile, you can install a new set of hard drives into the server and reinstall the operating system and the other applications that come along with this installation. You can now continue working normally while you wait for your vendor to deliver the repaired RAID drive.

If you are not comfortable with the idea of shipping your RAID drive to the vendor’s address you can even opt for RAID 5 data recovery online. But to repair a failed RAID drive it is best to ship it to the vendor. Alternatively, you can have an arrangement with the vendor whereby a representative visits your premises and repairs the drive. It is going to be tad costly but it is possible to have this arrangement.

RAID recovery and repair is a complex process for people who are not in the know of it. However, with able vendors at your disposal, you can always have the drive repaired and the data restored with ease. There may be a possibility that the entire data cannot be recovered. This is why it makes sense to backup data as frequently as possible. If you keep a data backup and rely on your vendor to undertake your RAID 5 recovery, you will be doing great service to your organization.