Storage virtualization abstracts space in physical hardware into software-defined storage available to any device that is an end-user. It allows multiple storage devices appear as one monolithic volume, and simplifies the management of data.

Virtualization can be accomplished in two ways both host-based and network-based. Host-based Virtualization (typically used in HCI systems or cloud storage) relies on software to direct traffic. The host or hyper-converged systems, which are comprised of multiple hosts, provides virtual drives to guest machines of any configuration, whether they are virtual machines in corporate environments, computers that connect to servers for file storage, and servers that access data via cloud. The host uses software that converts the logical addresses of each block of disk data into an offset within the logical drive.

Network-based virtualization employs an alternative approach, shifting the complexity of a storage controller on an upper layer over the virtualization hardware. This often requires additional components, like an Ethernet switch to take on the increased load of I/O. However, it is able to lower costs while increasing performance.

The layer over the virtualization hardware also provides the ability to perform backup and recovery functions, without being impacted by the virtualization. Furthermore, it allows you to troubleshoot issues remotely – either by internal IT teams or managed service providers which can speed up resolution time. Lastly, it can help in scalability by removing dependencies between the location of files used at the https://myvirtualstorage.blog/best-types-of-acquisition-strategy-to-use-based-on-the-business-needs file level and where they are physically stored on physical disks. This can be used to improve storage, consolidate servers, and also to perform non-disruptive data migrations.