Storage virtualization abstracts space in physical hardware into software-defined storage which can be accessed by any end-user device. It allows multiple storage devices to appear as a single volume, and simplifies the management of data.
Virtualization can be achieved in one of two ways either host-based or network-based. Host-based Virtualization (typically used in HCI systems or cloud storage) relies on software to direct traffic. The host or hyper-converged system, made up of multiple hosts, offer virtual drives to guest machines of any configuration, whether they are virtual machines in enterprise environments, PCs that connect to servers for file storage, or servers that store data in cloud. The host makes use of software to convert the logical address of every block of data on physical disks into an offset within the larger logical drive.
Network-based virtualization is an alternative approach by shifting the complexity of the storage controller to a layer over the virtualization hardware. This often requires additional components, such as a network switch, in order to handle the increased I/O load. However, it is able to lower costs while increasing performance.
The layer on top of the virtualization hardware https://myvirtualstorage.blog/ipo-preparation-process-and-timeline also gives the ability to perform backup and recovery functions, without being impacted by the virtualization. Additionally, it allows you to troubleshoot issues remotely – whether by internal IT teams or managed service providers which can speed up resolution time. It also aids in scaling by eliminating the dependency between the location of the files that are accessible at the file level and the location the location they are kept on physical disks. This can be used to improve storage, consolidate servers, and perform non-disruptive file migrations.
