A storage array is a data storage system that is used for a variety of things, namely block-based storage, object storage or file-based storage. It is also called a disk array. Instead of storing data on a server, storage arrays use a collection of drives that are capable of storing a large amount of data, all managed through a simple, central management system. Managing data and ensuring that you always have enough capacity for the huge amounts of data that every business creates, collects, and stores in the modern workplace, demands attention. You may be looking at different options for servers and storage arrays, including finding the perfect supplier of refurbished server components.
How do storage arrays work?
With a storage array, the storage is separate from servers using hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs). The process of scalability is important here, with a combination of both used in many cases, allowing for an efficient scaling process when directly compared with the capacity of a collection of servers.
In many business settings, there is a common use of HDD storage arrays. These are used for storage purposes, with redundancy features built in with a view to the protection of data. An example of this is where redundant arrays of independent disk (RAID) controllers take the same data and copy it across multiple disks, protecting from the eventuality of data loss if there is a failure with one disk. With SDD storage arrays (a flash storage network), the same basic storage array architecture is in place, but it operates in a much faster way. You’ll often see a combination of both due to cost.
Storage arrays are such an important part of any storage network. They provide critical storage functionality within a network, allowing for a separation from LAN or WAN and connecting all devices, safely, within a single organisation and network. It is a way of separating the network transmission and connection functions from data storage functions. What this means in principle is that data can be accessed from multiple servers across a single business, from the same storage array.
Ensuring high performance of storage arrays
There are different ways that you can ensure optimal performance of storage arrays, utilising a high-quality system of management that keeps track of the capacity available, any errors and moving trends. There must always be a careful management of storage arrays to ensure that they never reach full capacity and that there is never a negative impact on the performance of applications for users as a result. You should look to implement a simple management tool that monitors the performance of the storage arrays and can optimise performance. This is a crucial aspect of ensuring all data can be accessed securely and effectively by multiple servers within an organisation.
Upgrading and optimising the performance of data architecture within your business IT infrastructure is an important part of facilitating the growth of a network and allowing for safe scalability that doesn’t disrupt performance or risk the loss of data. With the right expertise behind you, and the right servers and storage arrays, your business can thrive.
