Compare raw capacity, usable capacity, fault tolerance, and smallest-disk impact before purchasing storage.
Before you start
Work on a copy or a controlled test when the change can affect production. Keep timestamps, screenshots and the previous configuration so the result can be compared.
Step by step
- List the number and capacity of all disks.
- Choose a RAID level matching availability and performance needs.
- Calculate usable capacity based on the smallest disk in the set.
- Plan space for spares, snapshots, reserves, and growth.
- Confirm that backups remain independent from RAID.
Validation
Repeat the original test after the change and confirm that the expected service works without creating a new regression. Document the final state.