Hey everyone! I built my PC earlier this year and it's been running perfectly fine, using an M.2 SSD to boot and perform all functions. As a photographer, I've recently invested in a matching pair of HDDs to set up a mirrored RAID array for backing up my entire photo collection. I'm aware that I need to format those HDDs, but I've noticed a lot of conflicting advice online. Some folks say I need to format my existing M.2 drive and reinstall Windows to add the RAID setup. I want to know: will I actually need to format my M.2 drive just to add this RAID array as a separate storage solution? Just for reference, my M.2 SSD is clear right now, so I can always download everything again if needed, though it would be a hassle. Thanks for any help!
2 Answers
You won't have to touch your M.2 SSD at all. Just plug in the HDDs and follow either of the methods described in this guide [here](https://www.pugetsystems.com/support/guides/configuring-software-raid-within-windows-10-2124/). Easy peasy!
First off, it's important to know that RAID and backups are two different beasts. RAID helps protect you from drive failures, but it won't save you from data corruption or accidental deletions. Just keep that in mind! As for your M.2 drive, no, you don't need to format it to add your RAID setup. You only need to format the drives that will be part of the RAID array. Since the M.2 is just your boot drive and you're not booting from the RAID, you're safe. Just plug those HDDs in, search for 'Manage Storage Spaces' in Windows, and create a Mirrored storage space. Avoid using your motherboard for RAID setup; it's usually not the best method unless you're booting from it!
Thanks a ton for the insight! I appreciate it. I’ll stick to using 'Manage Storage Spaces' and skip messing with the BIOS. My goal is to have a reliable backup for all my work, so relying on just external SSDs has been too risky. I'm also planning to continuously back up everything as I import via my camera. I think that's the most solid way without relying on the cloud, right?
Exactly! Just make sure you have your backup strategy clear, so you’re covered against anything! Good luck!
Thank you! Super helpful to know I can just get going without any hassle.