Quote:
After much messing about with software RAID 5 with FreeNAS I have given up. I'm not finding it's a solution I feel my data is safe with. This could be down to the fact I am still a total Linux/BSD noob, but FreeNAS also seems to be locking up my system quite a bit so I don't think it's all my fault

I'm curious if it's the lockups or your desire for 'safety' that has steered you away from software RAID5.
If it's the lockups, the specs you quote are WAY above what I built for my NAS box, so something's wrong with your software selection or maybe execution. (not pointing fingers or laughing- I'm seriously interested)
If it's 'data safety', I'm wondering what specific points have you found to convince you hardware RAID is the way to go.

I couldn't have built my Debian NAS box without the help of the people on this forum- I'm a linux-noob. I'm very happy with how that box works, by the way. It just works and I don't need to know how or why.

Just wondering about the back-story.
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10101311 (20GB- backup empeg)
10101466 (2x60GB, Eutronix/GreenLights Blue) (Stolen!)