What does RAID stand for in data storage?

RAID stands for Redundant Array of Independent Disks. This term is crucial in the context of data storage because it describes a method of combining multiple physical disk drive components into a single logical unit for the purpose of data redundancy, performance improvement, or both. The main idea behind RAID is to store the same data in different places on multiple hard disks, which helps to ensure data availability even in the event of a hardware failure.

RAID can use various configurations or levels, each designed to provide different balances of performance and redundancy. The redundancy aspect, emphasized in the term, is critical because it allows for continued data access and integrity despite the potential malfunction of one or more disks within the array.