Unified Storage
Unified Storage systems combine file and block level access within one storage system. Block level access is based on iSCSI (or, depending on the product, also SAS and Fibre Channel), whereas file level access is done with NFS or CIFS.
The unification of both the technologies within one system offers maximum flexibility, as block devices are faster, but file devices can be accessed by many clients at the same time.
Eurostor offers different kinds of Unified Storage systems, some of them with ZFS file system or also as high available clusters.
All products: Unified Storage
Unified Storage: Maximum Flexibility for Your Data – Solutions from EUROstor
Unified Storage systems provide the ideal combination of file and block-based access to data within a single storage system. This technology combines the benefits of both worlds, offering businesses maximum flexibility for a wide range of requirements. EUROstor offers you a broad range of Unified Storage solutions, from systems with ZFS file systems to highly available cluster solutions.
What is Unified Storage?
Unified Storage systems consolidate traditionally separate storage protocols into a single platform. This means that clients can access data through both block and file protocols.
Block access typically occurs over iSCSI and, depending on the system, also over SAS or Fibre Channel. This access is ideal for applications that require high performance and low latency, such as databases or virtualization.
File access occurs over NFS (Network File System) or CIFS (Common Internet File System). This access allows multiple clients to simultaneously access files, making it ideal for file sharing, home directories, and content management.
The Benefits of Unified Storage:
- Maximum Flexibility: One system for all storage needs, whether block- or file-based.
- Cost Efficiency: Reduction of hardware and management costs through consolidation.
- Simplified Management: Centralized management of all storage resources.
- Improved Resource Utilization: Optimal utilization of storage capacity.
- Higher Performance for Specific Workloads: Block access for performance-intensive applications, file access for simultaneous client access.
The Difference Between Block and File Storage:
Block Storage and File Storage differ fundamentally in terms of data access and data structure.
Block Storage uses unstructured raw blocks and enables access over iSCSI, SAS, or Fibre Channel. This approach offers very high performance and low latency, making it ideal for databases, virtualization, and transaction processing. Access occurs point-to-point.
File Storage, on the other hand, organizes data into files and folders and enables access over NFS or CIFS. This allows multiple clients to access files simultaneously. File Storage is well-suited for file sharing, home directories, and content management, but typically has slightly higher latency compared to Block Storage.
Unified Storage Solutions from EUROstor:
- ZFS File System: Systems with ZFS offer advanced data integrity features, high performance, and flexible configuration options.
- Highly Available Cluster Solutions: For mission-critical applications, we offer highly available cluster solutions that minimize downtime and ensure business continuity.
- Custom Configuration: We configure the systems according to your needs and optimize them for your workloads.
Application Areas for Unified Storage:
- Virtualization: Providing storage for virtual machines and virtual desktops.
- Databases: High-performance storage for database applications.
- File Sharing and Home Directories: Centralized storage and sharing of files for employees.
- Content Management: Storage and management of digital content.
- Backup and Disaster Recovery: Efficient data backup and recovery.
Find Your Perfect Unified Storage Solution with EUROstor:
Contact us today to learn more about our Unified Storage solutions. We are happy to advise you and provide a tailored offer.