Abstract: A method of initializing or reconstructing data redundancy within a array of storage elements. Specifically, the method is performed by the array management software, either as part of the array controller or a host computer performing array controller functions, such that, for a new array, the data therein is made consistent (e.g., XOR consistent using parity data) and, for an array with a recently replaced storage element, data is reconstructed within the new storage element. In either case, after executing the inventive routine, the array is fault tolerant and the data is consistent in accordance with the technique used to generate fault tolerance.