Creating new volume, but updated to 11.1

[xmicks]

I've had 4x 3TB drives in use (as raidZ1) for about 2 years now. Now there at 80% used space, so I bought 4 new ones (also 3TB).

I'm running 11.1RC1 is it safe to create a new volume on this version? I've read about some changes in ZFS filesystem. With this in mind, should I create a new volume or extend the old?

 

[styno]

Can you do a backup-restore? 8x3TB in raidz2 makes more sense than 2x4x3TB in raidz1. Also, your data will be rebalanced over all the disks.
If you want to be on the safe side you shouldn't be running an RC-version.

 

[xmicks]

Yes, will probably go back to stable train soon. Wanted to check out docker, but turns out that's planned for a later release.

Did some calculations and turns out if I use raidz2 with 8 disks, I'd have a higher percentage of usable storage space.

With 3tb drives
Raidz1: 4 disks=70%, 8 disks=81%
Raidz2: 4 disks=49%, 8 disks=69%
(source: wintelguy.com/zfs-calc.pl)

So think I will probably go save some money for the backup drive. Wanted to have one for backups anyway. (I do have my important data backed up, but want a steady and regular solution.)

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