Complex array

What is a Complex Array?
A complex array is a data storage term that refers to an array of hard drives that support data structures in more complex ways than a simple RAID array. Rather than just allowing space for multiple hard drives, a complex array can effectively manage the use of multiple hard drives to manage optimal data transfer and storage solutions.

The essence of the complex array is that an intelligent storage strategy can include tactics and techniques for better read-write input and output, redundancy for secure data storage, or other types of better data storage optimization, more effective data backup and recovery, or other enhanced functionality An example is the use of striping, in which input data is routed in a very controlled and distributed manner over a series of disks. Striping and other types of data storage allocation schemes help hard drives support data storage in a customized manner, which can be great for many types of business use.

Another general principle of a complex data storage array is disk parity. Here the system checks whether the same amount of data arrives at its storage location and indicates that it has left its original location. Maintaining parity on multiple hard drives can provide a fault tolerant system so that everything works fine if a single hard drive fails or is compromised.

There are a number of ways to achieve this functionality. Many of them are RAID labeled because they require the use of a redundant array of independent hard drives. Different RAID levels show different types of functionality for fault tolerance and other goals. The principle of a complex array can help organizations manage their data storage solutions in a way that anticipates many of the common problems that can cause systems to crash and valuable data to be lost.