Blog: JetStor: Using SSD Caching to Improve System Performance

As the capacity of HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) continues to expand, the response speed of this traditional storage technology hasn’t kept up with the times.  In recent years, random input/output (I/O) technology has only experienced marginal advancement in the HDD realm, causing this old school storage solution to really weigh down computing systems when data needs to be recalled quickly.

For businesses using major applications like enterprise web with database, cloud and virtualization, slow speeds just don’t cut it.  HDDs may have superior capacity, but they simply can’t handle the job alone.  So as the demands of the virtual world keep growing, where can you turn to get your traditional storage devices some much needed help?

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SSD Caching for Mission Critical Apps

SSDs (Solid-State Drives) have become HDDs best friend for mission critical applications.  This hardware operates at exceptionally high speeds, and can be configured with HDDs to act as a secondary caching unit that enables far better performance.  With their cost effectiveness and ease of configuration, SSD caching is a viable option for Fortune 500 companies to small and medium sized businesses.

Think of SSD caching as a backpack.  The Solid-State Drive attaches to your HDD and acts as an extended cache.  Instead of your computers digging around in the Hard Drive to recall the data it needs, often-used enterprise applications are stored in the SSD so the computer can effectively gather data at a much faster rate. The SSD becomes the go-to source for high-demand information on the computer, increasing speeds and providing the system with one more resource of data.

Performance Benefits of SSD Caching

Professional testing shows that SSD caching is better than traditional HDD caching time and time again. SSDs outperform their antiquated counterparts in a range of tasks, including:

  • Operating System Boot Times
  • Application Loading
  • Reboot Times
  • Performances at Enhanced and Maximum Caching

As a whole, SSD configuration allows a computer to boot faster, run faster, and stay fast for a long stretch of time. Its low cost and easy configuration make this option a no-brainer for avid computer users.

When SSD Caching Does Not Improve Performance

While there are a number of benefits to SSD caching, the fact is that it will not create a system-wide performance improvement. Data that is too large for the SSD to read will have to be read in the hard drive, and some data may be removed from the cache over time to make room for new data. If you primarily use your computer to read and save large files, SSD caching may not do you any good. If you use several programs at once without the need for large cache storage, you would see enhanced performance from SSD technology.

With proper configuration under the right circumstances, SSD caching can do wonders for your computer. Explore your options today and improve your experiences in the future.