4 Best Ways to Configure RAID 1 on Windows 11
On Windows 11, you can use RAID 1 to create copies of data on multiple hard drives, also known as mirroring. This technology is popular for businesses and individuals as it provides increased data availability and ensures a safe backup in case of a computer crash.
This tech is useful and simple to use, even for less tech-savvy individuals. With just a few clicks, they should be well on their way. We show you how to setup RAID 1 on Windows 11 in this guide, as well as everything you need before starting the process.
Hardware Requirements for a RAID Set Up
Before creating a RAID 1 setup on Windows 11, keep in mind the following requirements:
– You need at least two drives.
– All drives should have the same file type, preferably NTFS.
– You must have a RAID controller. Alternatively, you can use the built-in Storage Spaces feature as a software solution.
– Make sure your motherboard is compatible with RAID. Older motherboards may not support it.
1. Configure RAID 1 on Windows 11 via the Settings App
The Settings app is a central location for configuring options on the operating system. It can customize appearance and behavior, manage privacy and security, and configure RAID options (including creating RAID 1).
To access the Settings app, use the Windows + I keyboard shortcut. Then, click the Storage option on the right pane.
Step 3: Scroll down the right pane and click ‘Advanced Storage Settings.’
Step 4: Click Storage Spaces on the right pane.
.
Step 5: Click Add to create a RAID storage.
Step 6: Fill in the Name field, select the disk to create RAID 1, and click Create.
Step 7: Fill in details for the Space the pool in the previous window will belong. Input a Name, choose the desired Size, select ‘Two-way mirror’ for Resiliency, and click Create.
2. Set Up RAID 1 Using the Control Panel
Control Panel is a utility that allows users to change and reconfigure options on the device. It includes hardware and software configuration applets and can be used to manage drive functions, such as creating RAIDS.
-Step 1: Press Windows + R keyboard shortcut to open the Run dialog, type control and hit Enter.
-Step 2: Ensure the View by option is set to Category in the top-right corner and click ‘System and Security’.
Step 4: Click Storage Spaces.
Click ‘Create a new pool and storage space.’
Step 6: Select drive, click Create Pool.
Step 7: Name the Storage Space. Choose Two-way mirror from the Resiliency type drop-down. Select a suitable size and click ‘Create storage space.’
3. Configure RAID 1 From the Disk Management Settings
On Windows 11, you can use Disk Management to manage hard drives and disks. This tool allows you to create, resize, delete, format, and manage drives on your computer. You can also use it to create RAID 1 on Windows 11.
Step 1: Right-click the Start menu on your Taskbar, then select Disk Management.
Step 2: Right-click on the Drive for your RAID, select ‘New Striped Volume’.
Step 3: Click Next.
Step 4: Select the disk for RAID, add, and proceed.
Step 5: Select NTFS and click Next.
Step 6: Click Finish and confirm your choice.
4. Set Up RAID 1 via the Command Prompt
The Command Prompt is a text-based interface allowing users to interact with the Windows operating system. It is a powerful tool that can be used for system configuration, file management, troubleshooting, and disk management. You can also create a RAID 1 drive using it. To begin, press Windows + R to open the Run dialog. Then, type “cmd” and hit Control + Shift + Enter to open the Command Prompt with admin privileges. Next, type “diskpart” and hit Enter to access drive and disk management. Finally, type “listdisk” to see all available drives.
Step 5: Type the command below, replacing N with the disk number for the RAID: Select disk N
Step 6: Convert the selected drive to a dynamic one by typing the command below: convert dynamic
Step 7: Repeat steps 5 and 6 for other drives needed for the RAID process. Step 8: Create your RAID volume by entering the command below: Create Volume RAID Disk 1, 2, 3
Step 8: Select the newly created RAID using the script below: select volume 2
Step 9: Change the format and assign a drive letter by running the two scripts below in sequence: Format FS=NTFS Label=NewVolume
Assign Letter=E
Using the New Virtual Disk
The solutions above configure RAID 1 on Windows 11. Now, you can use the virtual drive in case of disk drive failure. RAID 2, 3, 4, or 5 are other types of RAID with different levels of data redundancy and drive requirements. RAID 1 offers 100% data redundancy.
As Fred Humiston, the author behind Twothirds.us, I focus on providing practical and easy-to-follow guides and solutions for a variety of technical issues that people commonly face.
My articles cover a wide range of topics, from troubleshooting out-of-sync audio on TikTok and managing Firestick devices, to understanding the impact of Capcut on video quality and resolving sound issues on Hisense Roku TVs.
I also delve into more general tech tips, like how to block numbers on landlines or use VPNs without Wi-Fi. My goal is to make technology more accessible and less intimidating for everyone, whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned user. I strive to offer clear, concise, and helpful advice to make your digital experience smoother and more enjoyable.