The Three Common Types of Data Storage Solutions
Saturday, 19. September 2009
When it comes to the world of computer, if there’s one thing that has become crystal clear, it’s that nothing can be expected to stay the same for long. Technology moves ahead at amazingly fast speeds and the average computer user must be constantly examining what is available just to keep pace.
If you have a business, this is especially true, as your livelihood comes to depend on having a system that can handle all possibilities. Also, you must make sure that your current data storage solutions are sufficient to the threats that are out there at any given time. Keeping your information secure can mean the difference between success in failure in this fast moving market.
The most common type of storage is actually attached the computer itself. This direct attached storage, or DAS, consists of the common systems that are already installed on an actual computer. Each computer comes equipped with a hard drive in order to accommodate data storage. Everything can be stored and handled by the computer in real time.
Threats generally come from one of two directions. First, you have the standard virus or malware, in which vulnerable computers are randomly targeted. This can happen to any system that is not adequately protected. Also, larger companies are also vulnerable to specific hacking attempts, in which a criminal mines your system for personal information. By having safety protocols in place, you can detect and eliminate these front line attacks.
In addition, many companies are finding a great deal of value in moving their data to a more secure location in order to protect it. Likely you are aware of the recent increase in data storage that is handled through the Internet itself. A company authorizes the system to access their files and they are then archived and stored for safety.
The good news is that it is easier than ever and can often be accomplished without much lag in the actual system. As professionals, these companies will also provide technical support during the process and some even offer a guarantee to protect you against security failures.
The most removed type of data storage solution that is available is designated as the storage area network or SAN. This is a specialized business that deals entirely in off site storage solutions. The company delivers their data to an outside facility and they provide a secure storage environment. The facility may or may not allow computer access to the data. In general, however, it is the responsibility of the company to manage the data and the data warehouse will likely provide only storage. This solution can be a bit more inconvenient, but it has safety protocols that make it a very good backup plan. It is most often used in conjunction with on site or network based storage, giving the best of both security and accessibility.
Whatever solution you use, you will likely want to doubly insure your data. When dealing with data storage, it is important to plug all the potential weak spots. First, you should get a reliable local storage solution that can be kept on hand. Then, it would be a good idea to look into Internet based or off site solutions for greater reliability. By taking this multi-tiered approach, the best results can be achieved.
Before you buy anything online, make sure you check Kazu Oda’s excellent free report on desktop