One of the most misunderstood technologies that is becoming more and more common is RAID. RAID stands for "Redundant Array of Independent Disks" or "Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks" depending upon whom you ask. Either way, it means the same thing - individual storage devices (disks) are made to work together like a single "virtual disk." RAID has been around for many years and has been a staple of storage in servers and high-end workstations for ages but it's finding its way into mid-range to entry level desktop systems both from OEM vendors and DIY builder motherboards and even portable systems like the Dell XPS-M2010, the Alienware Aurora or some of the Toshiba DynaBook series.

There are a few highlights about RAID that everyone needs to know:

1. RAID is _NOT_ a backup!!! Nor is it a substitute for a good backup solution.
2. See #1 again just in case you didn't get it the first time.
3. Not all types of RAID are created equal. Each type of RAID has advantages and disadvantages.
4. Once you understand a few basic principles, RAID is neither complicated nor mysterious.

The goal of this site is to remove the shroud of mystery surrounding RAID and help you, the non-geek end user, to make informed decisions about RAID whether you are shopping for new equipment or need to understand the technology in equipment you already own.