Every modern organization interacts with a variety of data and requires reliable storage solutions. When it comes to the types of data storage, there is a huge range to suit all budgets and requirements. The variety of storage types allows you to find the best solution, but makes the final choice much more difficult. In this guide, we will examine the most popular types of data storage.
What is Server Storage?
Business-critical information, including financial data and personnel records, requires robust storage solutions. Digital data storage systems offer the most efficient way to manage these vast data volumes and simplify the task of retrieving specific data.
Why is Server Storage Important?
Information volumes in enterprises are increasing every year. Various tools and softwares contribute to this growth, making convenient and voluminous storage a necessity for every enterprise. Digital storage offers several advantages over physical storage:
- Long-term information retention;
- Quick and easy access;
- Efficient data recovery;
- High level of security;
- Easy data sharing among users;
- Easy scalability.
Enterprise Server Storage Types?
Enterprise digital storage is categorized into two types, namely Direct-Attached Storage (DAS) and Network Storage. They are designed for different devices, so let's look at them in a little more detail.
Direct-attached storage (DAS): Advantages and disadvantages
Direct-Attached Storage is a storage environment connected directly to a single system, such as internal hard drives or SSDs in a computer. Other DAS examples include flash drives, USB drives, and CD-ROMs. In simple words, they are solid state drives that are installed inside the computer. If you are looking for accessibility, ease of use, and backup without the need for pre-installed networking hardware, DAS is a suitable choice.
Network-based storage: NAS and SAN
Network Attached Storage (NAS) is a centralized data repository accessible to networked devices. This storage type uses virtual cloud storage, allowing access to your information from any device, at any time. It also enables the entire team to access the same information simultaneously.
Data Storage Devices
Let's take a look at the popular devices used to store information. Various devices are available for data storage, offering solutions to meet various needs.
Cloud storage
Cloud storage offers excellent scalability and value for money. In 2023, many organizations of different sizes use cloud storage, as it eliminates the need for physical media and offers a convenient technology for storing information within a service – the cloud. All the consumer has to do is choose a provider and pay for the resources they use.
Hybrid cloud storage
In a hybrid cloud, storage takes place on multiple clouds that are designed for different workloads. This option will be an excellent solution for large and medium-sized companies, allowing sensitive information to be stored in a private cloud and less sensitive data in a public cloud, while keeping costs reasonable.
SSD and flash storage
With the advent of computer systems, hard disks were the standard for permanent storage. They used metal disks with a moving head for reading and writing information. Today, hard disks have been largely replaced by solid-state drives with flash memory technology, which offers higher speed.
Backup storage
Every company should have a backup strategy that includes all data to protect against theft, damage and loss of information. These copies should be created regularly and stored on separate drives. At the same time, backups should be regularly checked for integrity,serving as a safety net in case of system failures.
