RAID Config/Inst 3.3

What must be done in the BIOS/UEFI before installing an OS to a RAID array?

You must enable RAID mode in BIOS/UEFI and configure the array using the RAID configuration utility.

What should you do if the Windows installer does not detect a RAID array?

Load the RAID controller driver during installation using the "Load Driver" option.

Where can you usually find RAID drivers?

On the motherboard manufacturer's website under support/downloads.

How do you provide a RAID driver during Windows installation?

Save it to a USB drive and use "Load Driver" during setup.

What kind of RAID setup typically needs a driver during install?

Hardware or firmware-based RAID set up in the BIOS.

Does software RAID need a driver during installation?

No, it is configured after the OS is installed and uses standard drivers.

What is the default storage mode if RAID isn’t used?

AHCI mode.

What happens if RAID is enabled in BIOS but no driver is loaded during install?

Windows won’t detect the RAID array.

What common mistake can cause RAID install issues?

Trying to install to individual drives instead of the RAID array.

Quick RAID install checklist: Step 1

Set up RAID in BIOS.

Quick RAID install checklist: Step 2

Enable RAID controller if it’s not already on.

Quick RAID install checklist: Step 3

Create the RAID array.

Quick RAID install checklist: Step 4

Boot to Windows install media.

Quick RAID install checklist: Step 5

Load RAID driver from USB if needed.

Quick RAID install checklist: Step 6

Continue with Windows installation.

What is typically needed when installing Windows on a hardware RAID array?

The RAID driver provided by the motherboard or controller manufacturer must be installed for the OS to detect the array.

What is the difference between software and hardware RAID?

Hardware RAID uses a dedicated RAID controller; software RAID uses the system CPU and OS to manage the array.

when using software RAID, where is the RAID configuration typically set up?

In the operating system after installation, using built-in tools like Disk Management in Windows.

What is firmware RAID?

A type of RAID setup done through BIOS/UEFI firmware, often using onboard motherboard RAID features.

Why might a RAID array not be detected during OS installation?

The RAID controller drivers are missing, or the array wasn't created or initialized in the RAID utility.

What happens if you use disks of different sizes in a RAID array?

The total array size is limited to the capacity of the smallest disk in the array.

Can a RAID configuration replace regular backups?

No, RAID provides redundancy but is not a substitute for regular data backups.