unRAIDs

unRAID is a custom Linux-based operating system designed for Network Attached Storage (NAS) and home server applications. Developed by Lime Technology, unRAID prioritizes data redundancy and flexibility in storage management. Unlike traditional RAID configurations that require all drives to be identical in size and type, unRAID uses a parity drive system. This allows users to mix and match drives of various capacities and manufacturers, adding or replacing them over time without needing to rebuild the entire array.

The operating system features a web-based graphical user interface (GUI) that simplifies the setup and management of the storage array, user shares, and installed applications. unRAID supports a wide range of applications through its Docker container and virtual machine (VM) capabilities. This enables users to run various services such as media servers (e.g., Plex, Jellyfin), download clients, security cameras, and even desktop operating systems within their unRAID environment.

Key features include the ability to expand storage incrementally, protect data with parity drives, and run multiple applications simultaneously. The unRAID operating system is installed on a USB flash drive, which is then used to boot the server. This approach allows the main storage drives to be dedicated solely to data storage. The system is known for its energy efficiency, as drives not actively being accessed can spin down to conserve power.