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November 10, 2009

Storage and Backup Considerations for Colocation

Data storage and backup are two important factors that often get overlooked when choosing a colocation facility.  More than likely, you have opted to move your equipment to a third-party data center because your systems contain mission-critical information that cannot afford to be compromised.  When this is the case, you need to give that data the same consideration you would your servers.

Common Storage Solutions

There are basically three types of storage and backup solutions that can be used for your servers: DAS, NAS and SAN.  Here is a more in-depth look at each variation:

DAS (Direct Attached Storage)

DAS is the most widely used type of data storage and backup system.  These systems are quite similar to the external hard drives that support memory installation and can be attached to home-based personal computers.  If you run a small business that doesn’t have demanding storage requirements, DAS could be the solution for you.  The major drawback is that your server can end up lagging while trying to store files and run your applications at the same time.  You should also keep in mind that DAS solutions are limited in capacity and not suitable for large-scale storage needs.  Therefore, if your business is experiencing fast, positive growth, this might only serve as a temporary solution.

NAS (Network Attached Storage)

NAS is a unique storage solution that works by placing additional capacity on the server, but keeps it separate from your running applications.  Hence the name, NAS systems run on the network, making them ideal for the organization utilizing networked computing.  The major draw to this solution is enhanced performance and a cost efficiency that allows for a positive return on investment.  With NAS, your file server can be centrally managed without affecting the other networked servers being used to run your applications, making it a great file sharing system that maintains a high level of productivity.

SAN (Storage Area Network)

SAN is a more advanced data storage and backup system best suited for larger businesses that demand the ability to transfer multiple files over a more stable fiber connection.  While efficient and increasing in popularity, these solutions are relatively new and lack the compatibility needed to make them valuable to more customers.  SAN is considerably more complex and expensive than both DAS and NAS, which is why the system is mainly used by organizations that can afford its novelty.  On the other hand, it makes a viable storage and backup option for online businesses due to the high volumes of traffic they typically receive.

How Do You Decide?

It can be very difficult to properly access your storage and backup requirements.  The good thing is that these particular systems can often be integrated and work seamlessly with one another.  For instance, you may decide to keep things simple with DAS and then use NAS for separate operations.  The best advice we can give is to first determine your storage needs and then figure out which individual solution or combination meets those requirements.  Getting this out of the way will give you a much needed peace of mind when colocating your equipment.

Tags: SAN,  NAS,  data center,  DAS,  colocation facility,  colocation,  backup,  storage