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I want to replace TrueNAS Scale as my redundant backup dump. I was thinking workstation windows 11 pro might work

Paavan Goyal 0 Reputation points
2025-09-06T09:09:56.6733333+00:00

Ok, so I have a truenas scale server currently running multiple docker containers and acting as a backup dump for all my other devices, phones laptops, other desktops, etc.

  • The problem is that recently my cloud backup solution for the server for a seure offsite copy no longer works on truenas scale and needs windows only.
  • Seeing as refs and storage spaces with recursove integrity streams enables seems to come close to allowing me to have zfs like data redundancy for storing my data as well as the fact that it is windows so ease of use is autimatically much better than linux, along with the fact that most, if not all the software i already run on truenas will work just as well or better on windows, either through windows native solutions, or using portainer and WSL2 to fix any gaps that might occur specifically with docker.
  • I also don't need 100% uptime, so i am ok dealing with windows updates.
  • My only question now is that, is it a good idea to have the only onsite copy of my data which will be easy to retrieve in case i need it ( retrieval from the cloud will be very slow due to the fact i am using cold storage for cost reasons)
  • Seeing as i can also have vms and run the machine headless using rdp and hyper-v, it basically covers all ym usescases and more as well as every usecase out of truenas scale, plus more and has the added benefit of being windows which everyone uses so, most if not all the software i will even need to run will always have a windows native version i can just download and use.
  • I can't use windows server, that's a long story, but i can't

TLDR:

SO, is switching to windows 11 pro for workstations and relying on storage spaces with integrity streams to create a pool to hold data and replace my current zfs option a good idea?

Windows for business | Windows Client for IT Pros | Storage high availability | Other
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  1. HarryPhan-2691 8,015 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-09-17T09:26:32.8+00:00

    Hi Pavaan,

    Switching to Windows 11 Pro for Workstations and leveraging Storage Spaces with ReFS and integrity streams can absolutely be a viable alternative to ZFS, especially given your use case. ReFS offers built-in data integrity through checksums and automatic repair, and when combined with Storage Spaces, you get redundancy and scalability that align well with ZFS-like resilience. While ZFS still leads in some areas like snapshot granularity and compression, ReFS has matured significantly and is optimized for Windows environments.

    Given your preference for Windows-native tools, Docker support via WSL2, and the flexibility of Hyper-V for VMs, Windows 11 Pro does seem to tick all the boxes. The fact that you’re comfortable with occasional downtime due to updates also makes this transition smoother. And since you’re using cold storage for offsite backups, having a fast, local retrieval option is essential—Windows can certainly deliver on that front.

    One thing to keep in mind is that ReFS is best supported on Windows 11 Pro for Workstations and Enterprise editions, so you're on the right track there. Also, while ReFS doesn't support deduplication or compression natively, third-party tools or architectural adjustments can help fill those gaps if needed.

    Overall, your plan sounds solid and well-aligned with your goals. If you find this answer helpful, feel free to hit “Accept Answer” so others can benefit too 😊

    T&B, Harry.

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