What does the acronym RAID stand for in data storage?

The term "RAID" stands for Redundant Array of Independent Disks. This technology is widely used in data storage to combine multiple hard drives into a single logical unit. The primary purpose of RAID is to improve data redundancy and performance, ensuring that data is stored safely and efficiently. By using multiple disks, RAID can protect against the failure of a single disk, allowing for continued operation and data integrity in the event of a hardware failure.

The concept of redundancy is central to RAID, as it often involves duplicating data across different disks or using techniques like parity to recover lost information. This makes RAID an important choice in environments where data availability and reliability are critical, such as in servers and data centers. The focus on independent disks allows for flexibility in using different disk types and sizes within the same array.

Understanding RAID and its implications for data integrity and system performance is essential for IT professionals, especially in the context of storage management and backup solutions.