White Paper: Hardware RAID Vs. Software RAID: Which Implementation Is Best For my Application?

In the last couple of years, RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) technology has grown from a server option to a data protection requirement. The first implementations of RAID in 1990 were very expensive controller boards with high performance I/O processors that were as powerful as the host CPU. At that time, when hardware-based RAID solutions were the only option, the cost of a RAID controller limited the usage to high-priced servers.

Today, RAID is found everywhere — from an operating system software feature to a stand-alone controller providing advanced data integrity in high-end storage area networks. It can be found in mobile environments such as laptops, as well as desktops, workstations, servers, and external enclosures with a larger number of hard disk drives. RAID is even included in TV settop boxes or personal storage devices.

This white paper provides a high-level overview of the various RAID solutions. It begins by defining "Software RAID" vs. "Hardware RAID", explains how these different RAID implementations work and the benefits of each implementation, and helps you make a decision on which RAID solution is best for your application.