The next-generation data storage market is worth $58.4 billion globally. The industry could grow at an 8.2% CAGR by 2030 to reach $128.94 billion as more businesses need to manage and store their data.
With so many data storage methods now available, it can feel challenging to choose one for your business. Here are a few different data storage systems to consider as you review your options. Reading this guide can help you make a more informed choice as your business continues to grow.
Read on to learn about the different types of data storage available today.
What Is Data Storage?
Every piece of information you gather as part of your daily business operations is potentially important. Your files might include:
- Payroll
- Accounts receivable
- Intellectual property (specifications for productions)
- Customer accounts (including purchase histories)
- Employee human resource records
You’ll likely need to access these files to operate your business on a daily basis. Some companies still maintain hard copies of these files in paper folders and file cabinets. More businesses, however, are choosing to store information digitally instead.
Moving your paper files to digital storage will ensure your business remains up-to-date as more businesses transform digitally. Otherwise, human error could increase and team productivity could drop.
The Benefits
As businesses continue to grow and change with new technologies, they’re also adopting new systems including:
- The internet-of-things (IoT)
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Data analytics
These systems use massive volumes of data. Without the right data storage methods, you could struggle to organize, manage, access, or share information.
Choosing the right types of data storage for your business can help you access information faster without delay or complication.
Digital data storage can ensure the lasting preservation of business data. Your team will have an easier time pooling large volumes of information over the decades you’re in business. Easier accessibility ensures your team can access what they need in the office or remotely.
They won’t have to waste time digging through file cabinets to find the documents they need.
Data recovery is more efficient as well. You can backup your files for peace of mind in the event files are lost or corrupted.
Turning to digital storage will reduce your company’s physical footprint. You won’t have to waste office space maintaining physical file cabinets. If you need to move, you won’t have to worry about heavy cabinets and thousands of files slowing you down.
Storing data online could increase your security, too. You can use advanced security tools to protect your business data and customers’ personal information.
Online data storage will also boost productivity and workflows while ensuring more efficient document management. Your company’s productivity could improve, helping your ROI rise.
Types of Data Storage
Before choosing between these different types of data storage, consider consulting an expert. Outsourcing your data storage needs can save your company time and money. They can help you choose options to accommodate a range of devices.
After choosing between these forms of data storage, you’ll also need to consider data storage devices. These include:
- Cloud storage
- Hybrid cloud storage
- SSD and flash storage
- Backup storage
Here are a few different data storage methods to consider for your business.
Direct-Attached Storage
Direct-attached storage (DAS) is attached to a specific computer. For example, it could refer to the storage space on a computer’s hard drive or solid-state drive. It could also refer to a removable, portable storage medium.
Removable mediums can include a CD, DVD, external hard drive, USB drive, or flash drive.
DAS storage systems are easily accessible and available. They also allow for easy backups and data recovery as needed. You won’t need network equipment or a setup process.
You can also scale as your business grows to ensure you have the storage space you need.
With DAS options, it’s often difficult to share data with others. For example, you might have to physically hand someone a storage drive. Files are only accessible by one person at a time.
Network-Based Storage
Network-based storage is a centralized repository of information. Users can access the files on network computers or devices. Data is stored on servers at a data center instead of attached to a single computer.
Network-based storage allows multiple users to access files from remote locations. This option is ideal for collaboration and easy file sharing.
There are two setups available for network-based storage: network-attached storage (NAS) and storage-area network (SAN).
NAS involves using a single server or computer for redundant storage containers or a redundant array of inexpensive disks (RAID). Users can access data over an internet connection. This option is usually easy to set up.
It’s also inexpensive.
SAN involves a network of multiple devices, such as flash storage, cloud storage, or solid-state drives (SSDs). This option is usually more complex to set up and therefore more expensive.
SAN can involve interconnected components. Usually, SAN storage looks like local drivers on a computer.
SAN storage is meant for more users than NAS or other data storage methods. You can learn more here: https://nfina.com/unified-storage-2/.
Look into Your Options for Data Storage Systems
Before choosing between these data storage systems, consider speaking with an expert. With help, you can choose between types of data storage based on your company’s needs. Choosing the right option can also ensure your company’s long-term scalability.
Turning to digital data storage can streamline your company’s operations and productivity.
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