Top 5 Benefits of All Flash Array Storage: What You Need to Know

Types of Flash Arrays

First we need to understand that not all flash array storage is created equal.

The three types of flash arrays include:

1. Hybrid

Hybrid arrays are cheaper than all flash arrays, a hybrid option with auto-tier functionality can accelerate application speed at a minimal incremental cost. Combining a flash tier in addition to spinning disk, data centers can achieve far better performance than spinning disk alone.

2. Converged Flash Storage Array

Converged flash storage arrays accommodate disk media while offering the performance and latency of an all flash array. It often is less expensive than an all flash array and supports block workloads, file shares, and the scale and resiliency of a high-end array.

3. All Flash Array

All flash array storage, such as HPE Nimble, are built exclusively with solid-state drives. If you need optimum performance, an all-flash array built on a flash-optimized architecture is your best bet. Because the cost of all-flash has dropped so much, an all-flash data center is now on the roadmap for many enterprises.

Benefits of All Flash Array Storage

Here are the top benefits of all-flash arrays and what you need to look for:

Greater performance that offers unparalleled speed.

• • Look for solutions that offer scalable and predictable performance. Evaluate IOPs at a given latency level. Make sure your architecture supports the power of an all-flash environment.
  • All-flash storage arrays such as the HPE 3PAR StoreServ deliver up to 900k IOPs with latencies from 0.3 to 0.7 milliseconds.

Resiliency and ability to scale.

• • Be sure the array can deliver 99.9999% availability, such as with HPE Nimble, which is enabled by both hardware and software redundancy, non-disruptive hardware and software upgrades, as well as transparent failover.
  • Because of explosive data growth, platforms must also scale to hundreds of terabytes or more.
  • Select a storage platform that offers consolidated management enabling administrators to manage and provision more storage with less effort.

Stronger data backup and dependable recovery.

1. • Choose an array that supports rich data services such as clustering or multi-site replication.
   • Select a solution that supports unplanned controller failures or maintenance of a controller node.
   • Look for an array that offers a flash-integrated flat backup that accelerates and restores while still minimizing the impact of backups on apps.

Storage without boundaries: data mobility.

1. • Your data needs to be able to move between applications, systems, storage, and physical locations. Make sure your storage solution allows your team the control the needs to optimize storage and manage workloads without disruption.
   • Opt for a storage solution that does not require additional hardware or management overhead to pool or transfer resources. For example, HPE 3PAR Peer Motion software allows for block migration between any HPE 3PAR StoreServ system without the need for any additional tools.

Affordability through cost efficiency.

1. • Capacity efficiency is a driver of controlling storage costs and boosting data center efficiency. Look for a solution that negates the need for back-up storage copies.
   • Some solutions can reduce your storage footprint by 80%, allowing for further reductions in power and cooling costs. Do your homework and ask how much you can expect to pay per usable GB—you might be surprised that it costs the same as maintaining a spinning disk environment.

As the all flash array gained popularity, the barrier to entry has dropped, making this advanced storage solution available to nearly every small and medium size business. 

Lean on Comport’s 30+ years of specializing in enterprise technology consulting to implement the best storage array option for your company. Request a Data Storage Assessment to get started. Comport’s certified IT consultants will analyze your current storage needs and create a roadmap for your storage strategy today and in the future. 

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