ReadyNAS OS 6.2

Basic Volume and RAID Concepts

To get the most out of your ReadyNAS storage system, it is helpful to understand the basics of volumes and RAID. Understanding these concepts is the first step to making good decisions about how to configure, manage, and use your ReadyNAS storage system.

Volumes

In the most general sense, volumes are data storage devices. Your computer treats an internal hard drive as a volume. It also treats a portable USB thumb drive as a volume.

Volumes can be either physical or logical. Usually, the term physical volume refers to a hard disk drive. When this term is used in this way, a two-bay storage system can have up to two physical volumes (hard disk drives). A four-bay storage system can have up to four physical volumes. A six-bay storage system can have up to six physical volumes.

The term logical volume refers to the way that you divide, or partition, your storage space. For example:

Each logical volume can correspond to a hard disk drive.

A logical volume can be made up of more than one hard disk drive.

In this manual, the term volume refers to a logical volume. The terms hard disk drive and disk refer to a physical volume.

RAID

Your ReadyNAS storage system allows you to configure your hard disks using one of the many RAID technologies.

RAID is short for redundant array of independent disks. RAID is a storage technology that balances data protection, system performance, and storage space by determining how the storage system distributes data. Many different ways of distributing data have been standardized into various RAID levels. Each RAID level offers a tradeoff of data protection, system performance, and storage space. For example, one RAID level might improve data protection but reduce storage space. Another RAID level might increase storage space but also reduce system performance.

Your ReadyNAS storage system supports X-RAID™ mode, a proprietary single-volume RAID architecture that is easy to administer, and Flex-RAID mode, which allows you to format your disks in a variety of industry-standard RAID levels.

When you power on your system for the first time or if you reset your system to its factory default settings, the optimal RAID mode and level are automatically selected for you based on the number of disks that are installed. You can also configure the RAID settings manually (see Change RAID Mode on page 24).

X-RAID

X-RAID is an auto-expandable RAID technology that is available only on ReadyNAS systems. With X-RAID, you do not need to know intricate details about RAID to administer your system. X-RAID allows you to add storage space without reformatting your drives or moving your data to another location. Because the

Volume Configuration

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NETGEAR READYNAS 104, READYNAS 716X, READYNAS 4220, EDA 500 Basic Volume and RAID Concepts, Volumes, Volume Configuration

READYNAS 3220, READYNAS 314, READYNAS 102, ReadyNAS 2120 v2, READYNAS 516 specifications

The NETGEAR ReadyNAS series encompasses a range of NAS (Network Attached Storage) solutions designed to provide reliable data storage, backup, and sharing options for both home and business users. Among the prominent models are the ReadyNAS 104, ReadyNAS 4220, ReadyNAS 316, ReadyNAS 716X, and ReadyNAS 312, each tailored to specific needs and use cases while delivering advanced features and technologies.

The ReadyNAS 104 is a four-bay desktop NAS that offers scalability and flexibility for home users and small businesses. Its ability to support up to 40 TB of storage using 10TB drives makes it a good choice for video streaming, file sharing, and automated backup tasks. The device is equipped with ReadyCLOUD technology, allowing users to access and manage their files easily from anywhere, via the mobile app or web portal.

Next, the ReadyNAS 4220 targets small and medium-sized businesses with its robust performance and enterprise-level features. Featuring up to 8 TB of storage in a 2-bay configuration, it employs the ReadyDR (Disaster Recovery) feature that allows for seamless offsite backups. The ReadyNAS 4220 excels in virtualization support, making it compatible with VMware and Microsoft environments, and offers built-in snapshot technology to safeguard data integrity.

The ReadyNAS 316 provides a perfect blend of power and features for users requiring advanced media management. With its six drive bays, it allows for extensive storage options and employs advanced data protection technologies such as RAID and BTRFS file system. The device's real-time transcoding capability is a standout feature, enabling smooth streaming of high-definition content to various devices without file format constraints.

The ReadyNAS 716X is designed for demanding workloads and power users. With its 6 bays and Intel Xeon processor, it is ideal for data-intensive applications, such as video production and large-scale backup solutions. This model supports 10GbE connectivity for high-speed data transfer and features dual power supplies for enhanced reliability, ensuring that users have a dependable system for mission-critical tasks.

Lastly, the ReadyNAS 312 offers a cost-effective solution for entry-level users who still need powerful performance. With 2 bays and support for up to 20 TB of storage, it utilizes the same advanced RAID technologies for data protection. The inclusion of features like real-time file syncing and play-out functionality makes it ideal for home users looking to centralize their media library and access their files anytime.

Overall, the NETGEAR ReadyNAS series presents a variety of options, each equipped with essential features and advanced technologies, catering to the diverse demands of users seeking reliable and efficient data storage solutions.