How to configure new Windows 11 Pro computer with two 2TB NVME SSD in RAID 1

Question

Hello, my current business desktop runs Windows 10Pro 64, but cannot run Windows 11. It has two internal HDD RAID 1 arrays. It makes it easy to buy a new HDD when one fails, as many do. The RAID just reconfigures itself automatically, and life goes on with no distress. I am now trying to figure out how to replicate that with a new I9-14900 CPU, RTX-40XX GPU, 64GB RAM, Bluetooth, WiFi 6 or 6E or 7, multiple display ports and/or HDMI, full complement of USB ports, and two 2TB NVME configured as RAID 1. I also have four external SATA drives and multiple cloud backups. I just don't want to rebuild the whole system from an image when a single SSD dies. I like continuous real-time backup. I don't want to buy something online and then find I cannot configure the two NVME as RAID 1. I am looking at RDY KING 95 003, HP OMEN 45L, and similar pre-built, maybe Cyperpower. I have not been able to get an answer from a vendor. Can you advise me? Thank you.

Answer 1

To configure a new Windows 11 Pro computer with two 2TB NVMe SSDs in RAID 1, you will need to ensure that your motherboard supports RAID configurations for NVMe drives. Here are the general steps you can follow:

1. Check Motherboard Compatibility: Ensure that the motherboard of the pre-built system you choose supports RAID for NVMe SSDs. Look for specifications that mention RAID support for NVMe drives.
2. BIOS Settings: Once you have the system, enter the BIOS/UEFI settings during boot. Look for the storage configuration options and set the RAID mode. This is typically found under the "Storage" or "Advanced" settings.
3. Create RAID Array: After setting the RAID mode to RAID 1, you will need to create the RAID array. This can usually be done in the BIOS/UEFI interface. Select the two NVMe SSDs and configure them as a RAID 1 array.
4. Install Windows 11: Proceed to install Windows 11. During the installation, the RAID array should be recognized as a single drive. If you need drivers for the RAID controller, they may need to be loaded during the installation process.
5. Backup and Recovery: Since you prefer continuous real-time backup, consider using software solutions that support RAID configurations and provide backup functionalities. This will help you maintain data integrity and recover quickly in case of a drive failure.
6. Vendor Consultation: Before purchasing, it’s advisable to consult with the vendor to confirm that the specific model you are interested in can support RAID 1 for NVMe SSDs.

By following these steps and ensuring compatibility, you should be able to set up your new system with RAID 1 for your NVMe SSDs effectively.

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References:

• Hardware-based Raid Systems (Fibre Channel, SAS, SCSI, Serial ATA) Testing Prerequisites
• Hardware-based RAID Systems (iSCSI) Testing Prerequisites

Answer 2

Hey,

RDY KING 95 003 pc comes with MSI motherboard, which supports RAID1 for both NVMe and SATA devices. https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/PRO-Z790-P-WIFI/Specification

I haven't found any info about OMEN though. It should support Intel RST, which allows you to build RAID as well.

FYI, RAID is not backup. Both of your drives can fail, so if it is good to have a separate device for additional protection. You can use something like Veeam Agent to backup your PC to an external drive or a NAS. https://www.starwindsoftware.com/blog/3-2-1-backup-rule-implementation/

Cheers,

Alex Bykovskyi

StarWind Software

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