The Benefits of Storage Virtualization

Storage virtualization abstracts space in physical hardware into software-defined storage accessible to any device with an end-user interface. It allows multiple storage devices appear as one single volume, and simplifies the management of data.

Virtualization can be achieved in two ways: host based or network-based. Host-based Virtualization (typically found in HCI systems or cloud storage) relies on software to direct traffic. Essentially, the host, or a hyper-converged system comprised of several hosts, displays virtual drives to guest devices with any configuration, whether they be virtual machines in an enterprise or PCs that connect to servers for file storage or servers that access cloud storage for data. The host makes use of software to convert the logical address of every block of data stored on physical disks to an offset within the larger logical drive.

Network-based virtualization takes an alternative approach, shifting the complexity of a storage controller to a layer above the virtualization hardware. Often, this requires additional hardware like a switch for networks to handle the additional I/O load however it is a great way to reduce expenses and improve performance.

The layer on top of the virtualization hardware also gives the ability to perform backup and recovery functions without being affected by the virtualization. It helps IT professionals to myvirtualstorage.blog/how-much-does-it-cost-to-use-a-data-room/ resolve issues remotely which could accelerate the resolution time. Furthermore, it can aid with scalability by eliminating dependencies between the location of files that are accessed at the file level and where they are physically stored on physical disks. This can aid in optimizing storage usage, server consolidation, and conducting non-disruptive migrations of files.