What Is Direct Attached Storage?

Direct attached storage (DAS) is digital storage that attaches directly to a computer or to a server using a cable. DAS is not part of a storage network. An example of this is an internal hard drive in a desktop or a laptop PC. Dell direct attached storage is an option that is scalable and provides cost-effective storage capacity expansion.It is an ideal solution for small or medium businesses as well as enterprise remote sites that have growing applications. Storage can be provided in either single or multiple host environments.

Technology Explained

A DAS device uses either solid state media or traditional spinning hard disk drives. Hard disk drives are cheaper than solid state drives (SSDs) but are not as fast. Solid state drives are becoming increasingly popular because of their strong and fast performance, though they are expensive. SSDs also last longer and are more reliable because they do not rely on a spinning disk. However, SSDs are more likely to be found in mid- to high-end servers.

Implementation

The Dell direct attached storage is easy to set up and can be included in servers. The DAS does not require you to purchase hardware, such as routers and switches, nor does it mandate that you design a network. The DAS can be added as additional drives to an existing server chassis or on its own, separate chassis. DAS can also be purchased as storage appliances that connect directly to the servers. This deployment may need some configuration, but most information technology workers are able to do this work independently, without requiring assistance from specialized technical experts or outside consultants.

Why Add Direct Attached Storage?

If your data center needs additional storage and you have little physical space, using a Dell direct attached storage option helps you expand your server capacity as your business gains more data. The DAS allows you to store your data efficiently without losing power or performance. By choosing to use the DAS, you get high density storage while lowering operational costs. Drives can be kept in a space-saving position and no downtime is necessary for maintenance. The DAS is also optimized for high business continuity and flexible virtualization projects, so that storage and performance needs can continue to be met. DAS has increased in demand as efficient IT storage solutions are needed. A major benefit of DAS is that a DAS device can connect directly to server without needing a network connection.

Direct attached storage attaches directly to a server or a computer, and is not accessible via a network, which reduces the potential points of failure. The DAS can be either a single drive or a group of several drives that are connected together and housed either inside or outside a server. Several systems can also share one DAS device, with each server having a separate connection to the storage device. Direct attached storage is low cost and simple to use and implement, not to mention offering the fastest access rate and the highest data bandwidth.It is ideal for small or medium-sized organizations that are just beginning to increase their data storage and application processing capacities.

John Trinh has been writing for 10+ years. He first delved into the world of writing when he wrote his first article for his university's paper. Since then, John has enjoyed writing about technology, and anything that he thinks he should write about. If you want to know more information Click Here

John Trinh has been writing for 10+ years. He first delved into the world of writing when he wrote his first article for his university's paper.