FLASH STORAGE FOR ANY APPLICATION

What is a Hybrid Flash Storage Array?

If you have specialized applications with a high level of throughput, state-of-the-art hybrid storage is a solid choice for your business. Hybrid flash storage arrays utilize the best of a solid-state device (SSD) combined with flash memory drives and hard disk drives (HDD). Solutions Architects will configure tiers in your system with a flash storage tier to handle your high-speed data needs, while a second tier would be set up to handle your low-speed needs. This is an economical approach to the design.

Flash memory is a more expensive option than the traditional spinning disk structures, however, it has no moving parts. It can be erased and reprogrammed and the speed with which it transfers data is much faster than more traditional drive options. Hybrid arrays can be configured with the amount of flash memory needed for optimization based on how much capacity matters compared to speed.

Hard disk drives are economical, with lower dollar amounts per gigabyte, but they are notoriously slow and drain the power on your system. Solid-state devices use less power but cost more. Although the trend is moving to all-flash arrays, they are a very expensive option.

Commonly used for databases and file servers, hybrids are a great solution. They have a wide range of uses across the business sector. You get the benefits of flash memory in a more cost-effective setup. They offer low cost per gigabyte and IOPS (input and output operations per second). Because they can be configured in a way that addresses your speed and capacity needs in the best way, balancing cost with performance. This is a great option depending on the complexity of your files and data systems. If you have lots of data that must be accessible by multiple users, like collaborations and email, increasing the amount of flash will get you better results. These don’t have to be stored on spinning disks so you can get your hands on them in an instant. However, if you have a great deal of data, on complex databases that you must be able to get your hands on quickly, traditional hard drive models wouldn’t be your best choice. However, this hybrid approach addresses your goals in either case.

Many systems are tiered or adapted with flash options to get you data access without jeopardizing capacity or speed. Depending on speed and capacity, along with the type of data and access your company requires, It is important to note that the more flash required, the more the cost will likely be impacted.

AC&NC is here to help you identify the best traditional, hybrid, or flash storage systems to meet your needs while balancing cost, capacity, and speed. We are well-versed in these types of systems and know what works in a variety of business contexts. Contact us to set up a consultation so we can help you get the best system possible.