Evaluate

Evaluate

Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.

• Docker storage and virtual storage requirements differ

  Docker containers and virtualization present some of the same challenges when it comes to storage, but identical Docker storage and virtual storage systems might not be the answer. Continue Reading

• How do consumer and enterprise sync and share differ?

  Enterprise-grade file sync-and-share products offer more comprehensive features than consumer-grade file sharing applications. Continue Reading

• What separates object storage systems from SDS?

  Although software-defined storage and object storage can work in similar ways, there are significant differences between the two. Continue Reading

• An expert's guide to big data storage architecture

  Analyst John Webster answers frequently asked big data questions, including how to choose storage and protect and analyze data in big data environments. Continue Reading

• Why choose object storage systems over file storage?

  Traditional file storage can have a hard time handling today's massive amounts of metadata. Learn why object storage has become a popular replacement. Continue Reading

• Is it time to rethink the traditional file system?

  Large amounts of unstructured data and technologies like cloud have some asking if the traditional file system is up to the task.Continue Reading

• Four cloud-integrated storage drawbacks

  Cloud-integrated storage is a good way to move data to the cloud, but users should be aware of these four caveats before implementing the technology.Continue Reading

• Panasas ActiveStor gets denser with He8 Helium drives

  Panasas enhances its hybrid NAS system with He8 Helium-filled 8TB hard drives, more SSD capacity and cache. It also boasts 200 gigabit per second throughput.Continue Reading

• Fujitsu Eternus DX arrays upgraded for performance, capacity

  Fujitsu phases out its DX8700 S2 model and replaces it with two Fujitsu Eternus DX S3 block storage devices that scale from 4.6 PB to 13.8 PB of raw capacity.Continue Reading

• ITA Group turns to Tegile storage to handle expansion

  ITA Group cites primary data reduction capabilities as a key factor in picking Tegile storage arrays after it outgrew its EMC VNX system.Continue Reading

• What's the difference between EMC VNX series and ViPR?

  Brien Posey explains how two of EMC's virtual storage products work and for what use cases they work best.Continue Reading

• NexGen Storage supports VMware VVOLs with ioControl update

  NexGen Storage integrates vStorage APIs for Storage Awareness (VASA) to help VMware customers prepare for VVOL adoption.Continue Reading

• How does the vSphere 6 release affect storage?

  VSphere 6 supports NFS 4.1, but there are caveats to using multiple versions of NFS that storage administrators should be aware of.Continue Reading

• Are software-defined technology developments influencing storage?

  With storage developments moving from hardware toward software, many vendors are reworking products to capitalize on the software-defined technology movement.Continue Reading

• How do VMware containers work?

  Brien Posey explains the difference between storage virtualization and storage containers, and the benefits of using containers for VMs.Continue Reading

• What's the best way to protect against HDD failure?

  HDD failure can put bytes of data at risk. Is multi-copy mirroring or erasure coding the more efficient data protection approach?Continue Reading

• How to evaluate open source object storage

  Expert Marc Staimer outlines the requirements and risks associated with open source object storage.Continue Reading

• Have flash storage prices reached parity with disk?

  Many vendors claim all-flash storage arrays have hit price parity with hard drive systems. George Crump explains what that means in this tip.Continue Reading

• Docker containers expected to emerge gradually in primary storage

  Storage admins may find the container concept familiar, even if the terminology seems new; in some ways it's similar to using VMs.Continue Reading

• Should I use open source software-defined storage for primary data apps?

  While it has yet to make a large impact in the market, open source software-defined storage is becoming an option for primary data applications.Continue Reading

• 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

• Red Hat updates Ceph, Gluster storage, teases unified management

  Red Hat storage boosts performance and scalability with a new version of Ceph and adds erasure coding and automatic tiering with an update to Gluster.Continue Reading

• Deluxe OnDemand uses Scality Ring to streamline its media workflow

  Deluxe OnDemand stores up to 2 PB on Scality Ring object storage to improve performance while saving millions in its video and audio workflowContinue 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

• Sphere 3D launches SnapCloud cloud NAS in Microsoft Azure

  Sphere 3D SnapCloud presents as a physically attached local NAS for read/write, backups and replication between hardware and cloud instances.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

• PernixData FVP software helps health firm improve performance

  An Alaska-based non-profit health firm solved latency issues on its EHR application with some help from PernixData FVP software and server-side flash.Continue Reading

• Examine your computing environment before you buy flash storage

  The decision to buy flash storage can overcome many performance issues, but other areas of your computing environment could be contributing factors.Continue Reading

• Cloud storage security concerns dominate at Cloud Expo

  Experts at the bi-annual event highlight concerns over cloud security even as cloud use cases grow in size.Continue Reading

• New 96 TB Exablox OneBlox 4312 targets production storage

  Exablox uses global namespace and object-based file system to present itself as NAS share. The 4312 appliance doubles the capacity of the inaugural OneBlox 3308.Continue Reading

• SolidFire storage ramps up enterprise data protection with Oxygen OS

  SolidFire Oxygen operating system adds synchronous replication, snapshot replication and scheduling, and security features to all-flash array platform.Continue Reading

• Realize the benefits of storage virtualization

  Storage virtualization can come in a number of different forms. Some might consider storage virtualization as software that acts as a control layer to pool capacity from multiple, different vendors. Others might include the several types of products...Continue Reading

• Integrating a cloud tier with on-premises storage

  The best approaches to using cloud storage create a seamless integration between on-premises and cloud storage. Integration of a cloud tier with on-premises storage can be accomplished in a number of ways. Some will prefer purpose-built software ...Continue Reading

• Storage purchase process grows more complicated

  Unified storage systems that can host block and file are an increasingly popular alternative to NAS, and one more decision to make in the storage purchase process.Continue Reading

• Pros and cons of memory channel storage

  Memory channel storage is a relatively new technology that allows storage professionals to overcome some of the most limiting storage bottlenecks. Although flash storage is often heralded as providing far greater performance than traditional hard ...Continue Reading

• HP adds new high-end 3PAR flash models, software features

  HP unveils new high-end 3PAR StoreServ 20000 family all-flash and hybrid flash arrays and software resiliency and storage federation capabilitiesContinue 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

• Hybrid cloud infrastructure advantages

  Mike Matchett discusses hybrid cloud infrastructure and implementation, and why some vendors are taking notice.Continue Reading

• SAN basics: All the tools you need to purchase a storage-area network

  Whether you're purchasing a SAN for the first time or looking to upgrade, this guide walks you through the buying process from start to finish.Continue Reading

• How to select the best solid-state storage array for your environment

  These all-flash array and hybrid flash storage array performance factors will guide you in buying the right amount of flash.Continue Reading

• Why a cloud storage architecture is a good virtual server option

  A cloud storage architecture can provide the virtual server connection your organization wants with fewer upfront costs and more flexibility.Continue Reading

• Five pervasive flash-based storage myths

  Find out the top myths about flash storage today, where they come from and the reality hidden behind these common misconceptions.Continue Reading

• The ultimate network-attached storage guide

  Get tips on implementing a NAS system, find out where the technology works best and understand the need-to-know purchasing criteria.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

• Buyer’s checklist to solid-state storage arrays

  Solid-state storage has typically been deployed to solve specific application performance problems. But as flash prices fall, it is becoming more and more widely deployed. Today, most enterprise storage systems come with at least some solid-state ...Continue Reading

• SCSI (Small Computer System Interface)

  Definition: The Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) is a set of parallel interface standards used to attach disk drives and other peripherals to a computer.Continue Reading

• Top five reasons to choose NAS vs. DAS

  DAS can be useful for specific applications, but NAS is often the better option because it can provide a greater number of storage architecture options.Continue Reading

• In-house EFSS protects companies from data loss

  With more employees conducting their work remotely, consumer file sync-and-share use could be exposing corporate data. In-house EFSS could help combat this.Continue Reading

• Smarter storage from metadata, object stores

  One of the distinguishing features of object storage systems is their ability to package more metadata with each object they store. That metadata could be used to restrict access, define a file's lifecycle and its ultimate disposition. Other storage...Continue Reading

• HP MSA 2040 storage array

  The HP MSA 2040 is a rack-mountable modular storage array for SAN environments that includes increased support for virtualization.Continue Reading

• Evaluating storage protocols for your virtual server environment

  The storage networking protocols available for virtual servers differ from those available for physical servers. Here's how to weigh your options.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

• EMC VMAX Series storage arrays

  The EMC VMAX is a family of SAN arrays designed for enterprise environments requiring large amounts of storage.Continue Reading

• How to create a SAN array request for proposal

  This article outlines the areas to consider when comparing products in the SAN market so you can choose the best system for your organization.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

• Decisions, decisions: VDI storage considerations and choices

  With this essential guide, understand the different choices and strategies available when choosing storage for a virtual desktop environment.Continue Reading

• Understanding data storage requirements in a virtual environment

  Even though virtualization has become commonplace in today's data centers, provisioning storage for applications on virtual machines (VMs) often remains a pain point for IT professionals. Random I/O processes unique to virtual environments often put...Continue Reading

• Is all-flash array storage right for you?

  All-flash storage arrays are becoming Tier-1 storage for mission-critical data. Find out if all-flash array storage is right for your environment.Continue Reading

• Are data reduction techniques essential in VDI environments?

  Data reduction techniques can help shrink your storage footprint and costs. Here are some guidelines for incorporating these approaches into your VDI environment.Continue Reading

• Should I use an all-flash or hybrid array for my virtual desktop environment?

  Taneja Group's Tom Fenton weighs the benefits and drawbacks of using hybrid and all-flash arrays for storage in this expert answer.Continue Reading

• VMware VVOLs redefine storage

  VMware has been shaking up data storage for years, and its VVOLs technology just might revolutionize it. The newly introduced VMware VVOLs have vendors scrambling to support it or risk becoming irrelevant in the virtual machine storage market. VVOLs...Continue Reading

• How can I simplify storage allocation for virtual desktops?

  Find out the easiest methods of allocating storage for a virtual desktop infrastructure.Continue Reading

• Moving to all-flash? Think about your data storage infrastructure

  It's best to take a big-picture approach to your data storage infrastructure when deciding whether to enter the all-flash array marketplace.Continue Reading

• Unlock the potential of a converged system for storage

  Converged storage offerings package compute, storage and networking together for easy deployment and cost savings. Two of the primary benefits of converged infrastructure systems are enhanced time to production and a potential for cost savings. A ...Continue Reading

• Software-defined storage architecture projects: Four concerns

  Is your organization about to undergo a software-defined storage architecture overhaul? We list the technology areas that may still present a few problems.Continue Reading

• Huawei, DataCore: A new hyper-converged infrastructure?

  Jon Toigo explores the renewed interest in software-defined and hyper-converged storage, and an important partnership between Huawei and DataCore Software.Continue Reading

• Signs it may be time to adopt a hybrid cloud strategy

  The cloud is gaining traction, but the public cloud raises security concerns. Learn why a hybrid cloud strategy can offer businesses more benefits.Continue Reading

• How to compare software-defined storage vendors

  Software-defined storage vendor options keep growing. Expert George Crump sees the emergence of two distinct categories and notes products in each area.Continue Reading

• Object storage system choice rests on architecture, connectivity

  As you consider object storage for your cloud environment, here are several areas to focus on when comparing options.Continue Reading

• Five ways VDI technology is affected by storage

  Managing storage for your VDI infrastructure has progressed, but there are still some snags. Here are five ways to avoid VDI environment issues.Continue Reading

• When will 3-D NAND products hit the market?

  Vendors are increasing production of 3-D NAND-based chips. Learn how chip developments can cut costs.Continue Reading

• Is data sovereignty affected by my cloud provider’s location?

  If your cloud provider stores your data outside of your country, does it mean you still need to follow local laws?Continue Reading

• Object storage vs. block storage in the cloud

  Object storage isn't your only choice when it comes to the cloud. George Crump digs into the benefits of alternative storage technologies such as NAS and block.Continue Reading

• Hewlett-Packard 3PAR StoreServ 7000 Series Storage Arrays

  The HP 3PAR StoreServ 7000 series is a line of storage arrays designed for enterprise SAN environments.Continue Reading

• Use policy-based automation to maximize your flash investment

  Storage automation tools offer a wide range of functionality that can benefit shops using flash storage alongside traditional disk.Continue Reading

• IBM DS8870 Storage Array Platform

  IBM's DS8870 is a storage array platform designed for large enterprise SAN environments with mission-critical workloads.Continue Reading

• Five key VMware VVOLs takeaways

  The highly anticipated VMware Virtual Volumes feature is now available, and increasing vendor support is expected over the next 18 months.Continue Reading

• Becoming familiar with VM-aware storage

  As with any product still in its infancy, an exact definition for virtual machine-aware storage can be difficult to nail down. In simple terms, VM-aware storage is an appliance that vendors build specifically with virtual machines in mind in ...Continue Reading

• All-flash vs. hybrid flash storage arrays: Which is right for you?

  Hybrid flash storage arrays are currently the most popular way to deploy solid-state storage in enterprises today. An organization might have one or two applications that require the performance that flash offers, such as a database or virtual ...Continue Reading

• Flurry of new data storage technology can bring confusion

  Confusion reigns in the storage world, as new data storage technology tries to find its place in the data center.Continue Reading

• Hyper-converged storage systems=Storage + Compute + Networking

  Hyper-converged storage systems are preconfigured and integrated clusters of servers that share their internal storage. They boast convenience and flexibility, allowing rapid deployment of applications like databases and virtual desktop ...Continue Reading

• The evolution of flash-based storage arrays

  Oracle and HP prove that it's just not a case of all-flash or hybrid when selecting a solid-state-enhanced array.Continue Reading

• SSD form factors for server-side flash

  Server-side flash delivers very low latency for apps. See how it's being deployed today.Continue Reading

• Three reasons why object storage is a good HDFS alternative

  HDFS manages data across dispersed nodes, but an object storage system that leverages commodity storage can be a compelling alternative.Continue Reading

• Madden: Non-persistent VDI is getting easier

  Brian Madden was once a stark proponent of persistent VDI, but he says that opinion is changing thanks to improvements in technology and the way users are accessing applications.Continue Reading

• All-flash array comparison: The keys to performance, capacity success

  Analyst George Crump provides tips on selecting an all-flash storage array that meets your environment's performance and capacity needs.Continue Reading

• Buyer's checklist to software-defined storage vendors

  Vendors have flocked to SDS to help describe their various approaches to the market. When all the vendor hype and marketing presentations are over, how does today’s storage pro truly understand this transformative technology? This Buyer’s Guide will...Continue Reading

• Cloud archiving for cold and not-so-cold storage

  Cloud archiving is shaping up as one of the "killer apps" for cloud storage, but don't be tempted by capacity alone.Continue Reading

• Create a data archive strategy that resists the lure of clustered DAS

  Server-side clustered storage puts yet more distance between users and sound data management.Continue Reading

• Vendors predict the future of data storage 2015

  The future of data storage isn’t easy to predict. While some vendors see it clearly, others prove that, going into 2015, their crystal balls may be a little hazy.Continue Reading

• Storage magazine chooses its 2014 data storage products of the year

  In the 12^th edition of the Storage magazine/SearchStorage.com Products of the Year, we highlight 19 excellent data storage products in six categories. Our qualification process is unique -- vendors can only enter products that ...Continue Reading

• HP 3PAR StoreServ 7450

  HP's 3PAR StoreServ platform wasn't built for flash, but the vendor has tailored its thin technologies to develop an all-flash version of its 7450 array.Continue Reading

• PernixData FVP version 2.0

  Version 2.0 of PernixData's FVP wins the 2014 Storage Products of the Year competition in the storage system software category.Continue Reading

• Pure Storage Inc. FlashArray 450

  Pure Storage launched the FlashArray 450 as the new flagship of its all-flash line and filled a feature gap by adding replication.Continue Reading

• Samsung SSD 845DC PRO

  Innovation is the key to Samsung's SSD 845DC PRO, which was the first 3-D NAND solid-state drive to hit the data center.Continue Reading

• Atlantis USX 2.0

  Atlantis Computing's USX 2.0 claims the silver medal in the storage system software category in Storage magazine's Products of the Year competition.Continue Reading

• VMTurbo Inc. Operations Manager 4.7

  Judges were pleased with the extended support and granular management capabilities of VMTurbo's Operations Manager 4.7.Continue Reading

• Nimble CS700

  Nimble Storage adds a higher-capacity model to its iSCSI hybrid arrays, plus an all-flash shelf to bulk up performance.Continue Reading

• Scality Inc. Ring 5.0

  Scality's Ring 5.0 software-defined storage shares the bronze award in the Products of the Year storage system software category with VMware's VSAN.Continue Reading

• HP OneView for VMware vCenter 7.4.2

  HP OneView for VMware vCenter management software provides a complete look into virtual environments, spanning both physical and virtual layers.Continue Reading