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Windows 10 - Creating array with SSD drives

I'm building a new system and will be using Windows 10 Pro (not the free upgrade) for the OS. I've got a pair of 480GB enterprise-class SSD drives from Intel, and wanted to create a RAID 1 array - my goal is the ability to keep working in case one disc fails, so it would seem RAID 1 is the correct choice (but please correct me if I'm wrong).

I've been told that I should use Windows to manage the RAID, and not use the motherboard's onboard RAID controller. From what I've read, however, Windows 10 uses "Storage Management" to create a RAID, and the articles I've read specifically state you cannot use your main/boot drive to do this - and that's exactly what I want to do, i.e. have my system drives setup as a RAID 1 in case a drive fails.

Can I do this entirely in Windows, or do I need to get a separate RAID controller?

If I can do this entirely in Windows 10, can you please provide details or links?

If I need a controller, do you have any recommendations?

SOLUTION

Cliff Galiher

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Kimputer

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McKnife

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noxcho

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McKnife

If you select "mirror", the conversion to dynamic is done automatically.

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rindi

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Scott McDaniel (EE MVE )

ASKER

Thanks for all the suggestions and advice. Don't know where I'd be without the Experts here to hold my hand!

Unfortunately I can't go the hardware route (ran outta money), although I do understand the benefits, so I'm going to move forward with allowing Windows to handle the array. My components should be here today, and I'm going to begin putting things together either today or tomorrow. I'll post back and let you know how I come along.

rindi

Just something I'd do when you install the OS is to start off with just one SSD installed in the system. When the OS is setup and running, add the other and create your arrays. Having more than one disks installed during the installation can cause confusion and complicate things.

Scott McDaniel (EE MVE )

ASKER

Thanks for the additional info. Unfortunately I won't be able to build my machine today due to the complete and total incompetence at NewEgg. Apparently the "NewEggRUSH" delivery means that they package your order and then wait nearly TWO FULL DAYS - and I'm talking 45 hours total - to actually ship it out the door (which means my Next Day Air charge is pointless). Never again with those .... people.

Scott McDaniel (EE MVE )

ASKER

I've finally got my machine up and running - thanks for all the information. My second SSD is arriving on Monday, and I'll setup my RAID at that time. I'll post back here with any issues.

Scott McDaniel (EE MVE )

ASKER

I've had some hardware issues, and I'm replacing the mobo with a new one (Gigabyte confirmed there are troubles with it). I should have this all back up and running by Monday - Tuesday of next week, and will report back then.

Scott McDaniel (EE MVE )

ASKER

I was finally able to resolve my hardware issue by RMAing the mobo. I was able to create my RAID array thanks to the helpful Experts here on EE.

Thanks again!! Don't know where I'd be without you guys.