Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

• Should you move to PCIe flash storage?

  PCIe flash can offer lower latency than array-based flash in some cases. However, it has limitations. Find out if PCIe flash storage is right for you.  Continue Reading

• What are some of the concerns around cloud-integrated storage?

  Cloud-integrated storage uses object storage as a tier to keep costs low, but migration and performance limitations are holding it back.  Continue Reading

• What are some considerations around cloud object storage performance?

  Object storage in the cloud may be attractive because of its low cost, but you might want to reconsider if you need top-tier performance.  Continue Reading

• Why is storage QoS so important for flash arrays?

  Storage quality of service (QoS) is important in SSD environments because of resource contention, says Brien Posey in this expert response.  Continue Reading

• When will TLC flash come to enterprise storage arrays?

  Triple-level cell (TLC) flash is designed to overcome one of the key problems with flash storage: capacity.  Continue Reading

• Will memristor technology replace NAND flash?

  Brien Posey says that with HP working on a memristor-based computer it plans to launch by 2020, the technology could eventually succeed NAND flash.  Continue Reading

• Will we see more PCIe-based flash storage access similar to EMC's DSSD?

  Attaching flash directly to the PCI Express bus offers very low latency, but space is limited for on-board server-side flash. PCIe-based access for storage arrays may be the answer.  Continue Reading

• How can storage arrays take advantage of vSphere VVOLs?

  Virtual Volumes allow storage features to be provisioned to VMs, but the available feature set depends on the hardware.  Continue Reading

• How can I best provision storage for virtual servers?

  When it comes to provisioning storage for virtual machines, techniques such as golden images and thin provisioning are key.  Continue Reading

• What do I need to know about implementing vSphere VVOLs?

  VSphere VVOLs are making a splash in the storage market. Taneja Group expert Tom Fenton answers questions regarding updates to firmware and software.  Continue Reading

• What are some key considerations for VM data protection?

  In physical environments data protection often means restoring an entire system, but using the same methodology for virtual servers is inefficient.  Continue Reading

• What storage problems can vSphere Virtual Volumes solve?

  VSphere VVOLs allow virtual administrators to self-provision a pool of storage as they see fit.  Continue Reading

• What are protocol endpoints in vSphere VVOLs and how do they work?

  VMware's new VVOLs feature allows storage functionality to be distributed on a per-VM basis. Protocol endpoints are integral to proper allocation.  Continue Reading

• When will NVM Express flash drives appear in laptops and desktops?

  NVM Express flash drives promise capacity and throughput, but there are some factors limiting adoption of the technology.  Continue Reading

• Can I improve VM performance with flash tiering?

  Physical RAM and flash storage are traditional ways to improve VM performance. But the addition of mixed flash holds promise.  Continue Reading