In this section I take a look at the "single" RAID levels--meaning, the
"regular" RAID levels, as opposed to multiple or nested RAID
levels. Single RAID levels are by far the most commonly used since they are simpler
and less expensive to implement, and satisfy the needs of most RAID users. Generally, only
very high-end or specialty applications require the use of multiple RAID levels.
There are eight "regular" RAID levels, which are used to varying degrees in
the "real world" today. A few levels, especially RAID 0, RAID 1 and RAID 5, are
extremely popular, while a couple are rarely if ever seen in modern systems. For each
level, I provide a comprehensive discussion of its attributes and characteristics in the
areas of capacity, performance, fault tolerance, cost and more.
Note: For an
explanation of any of the categories used in describing the RAID levels, see the section discussing technical factors differentiating RAID levels.
Next: RAID Level 0
