A server administrator receives an alert indicating that a critical database server's hardware RAID 5 array is operating in a degraded state following a single drive failure. You are assigned to replace the failed physical drive and restore array redundancy while minimizing risk to system data. Arrange the technical recovery steps into the correct chronological order from first to last.
- 1Verify that a recent, verified backup of the storage volume is accessible.
- 2Locate the specific failed disk using drive bay status LEDs and the RAID management console.
- 3Unlatch and pull the defective hard drive module out of the hot-swap drive bay.
- 4Insert the replacement drive of matching or greater capacity into the empty bay and secure the latch.
- 5Access the RAID controller utility to assign the new drive as a rebuild target and monitor parity synchronization.
Answer
The proper sequence for replacing a failed hot-swappable drive in a degraded RAID array is: 1) Verify data backups, 2) Identify the failed drive slot via hardware/software indicators, 3) Remove the defective drive, 4) Insert and latch the replacement drive, and 5) Initiate and monitor the array rebuild via the RAID controller console.
The correct sequence ensures maximum data protection and prevents technician error during disk replacement. Verifying backups must occur first to guard against secondary disk failure during high I/O rebuilds. Identifying the specific failed disk using bay LEDs and management logs ensures that healthy drives are not accidentally disconnected. Once identified, removing the failed drive and inserting a properly spec'd replacement allows the hardware RAID controller to initiate parity reconstruction and restore array fault tolerance.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
RAID 5 Degraded State Hot-Swap Drive Replacement Procedure