A system defining a power-aware redundant array of identical disks that includes multiple data-storing disks that store multiple data blocks in a skewed stripping pattern. The PARAID further includes a disk manager for selectively powering on the plurality of disks based upon user demand. A PARAID disk driver is provided and includes a PARAID level module to operate within a computing environment by segmenting data among the array of independent disks in a skewed striping pattern. The disk driver includes a gear-shifting logic and monitoring modules for selectively causing the PARAID to operate in a particular gear.
