Let’s dive into how data storage methods actually look in a company. Without unnecessary introductions, we’ll explore various solutions that not only ensure security but also enhance work efficiency.
Local Servers – Tradition in a New Edition
Local servers are still going strong. Although they may seem a bit outdated, many companies continue to rely on this solution. Why? Because local servers offer full control over data. The system administrator can physically touch the device, which is not possible with the cloud. They are perfect for scenarios requiring quick processing of large amounts of data, minimizing latency. For example, in architectural offices, where files are large and frequently modified.
But what about maintenance and costs? Local servers require specialized technical knowledge and regular check-ups. Energy, cooling, and maintenance costs can be high, but companies often find a balance between performance and costs through well-planned IT budgets.
Cloud Storage – Modernity Without Limits
The cloud is a breakthrough. For many companies, it is synonymous with flexibility and scalability. Resources can be expanded literally overnight, and you only pay for the services used. In the cloud, not only databases but also applications and documents are stored. You can choose from different models: public cloud (popular solutions from Google, Amazon, and Microsoft), private cloud (dedicated to a single company), and hybrid cloud (a combination of both).
Examples? A technology company developing applications uses the public cloud, allowing them to test and deploy products without unnecessary delays. On the other hand, a financial firm uses a private cloud to meet security requirements and legal regulations.
Costs? Varied. The public cloud offers 'pay-as-you-go’ models, but it’s easy to exceed your budget if you don’t monitor resource usage. While a private cloud is more expensive to implement, it can be more economical in the long run.
Disk Arrays – Stability and Performance
Disk arrays are something associated with solid solutions for medium and large companies. These are sets of disks working together as a single storage system. They outperform single disks in terms of performance, reliability, and security.
Let’s take RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) as an example. RAID systems split data across multiple disks, providing redundancy—copies of data in case of a failure. RAID 1 duplicates data on several disks, while RAID 5 distributes data and parity across many disks, allowing data reconstruction in the event of a single disk failure.
Consider an e-commerce company: by implementing a RAID 10 array (a combination of RAID 1 and RAID 0), access times to data are rapid, and backups are instant. This solution is ideal where reliability and speed are priorities.
Optical Media – Archaic but Functional
It may surprise some, but optical media, such as CDs, DVDs, and Blu-Rays, still have their uses. They are relatively cheap and perfect for archival storage.
A manufacturing company might store copies of technical documentation, project files, or product photos on optical discs. They provide long-lasting storage reliability, although data access is slower than on hard drives or SSDs.
One of the main advantages of optical media is protection against cyberattacks—since they are offline media, viruses and ransomware can’t access them. The downside? Limited capacity and the need to physically store the media under appropriate conditions (temperature, humidity).
NAS (Network Attached Storage) – A Compromise for Everyone
NAS are storage devices that connect directly to the network. They allow file sharing among company users, backup creation, and even the setup of a media server.
A graphic design company might use NAS to store projects and share them with the team. This way, everyone, regardless of location, can work on the latest files. NAS configurations vary, from simple setups for small offices to advanced multi-disk systems for larger enterprises.
Is this solution perfect? Its big advantage is ease of use and relatively low cost compared to full-sized servers. However, if the device or network fails, access to data can be hindered.
SSD Storage – Speed at a Price
SSD (Solid State Drive) storage is becoming an increasingly common choice for companies needing high read and write speeds. They are more reliable than traditional hard drives (HDD) because they have no moving parts.
A data analysis company might use SSDs to store databases and analytical applications. Since data access is instantaneous, processes run smoothly, without unnecessary delays.
What about the costs? SSDs are more expensive than HDDs, which might not make them the cheapest solution for massive data warehouses. Nonetheless, their advantages make them increasingly the foundation of IT infrastructure.
Mysteries of Magnetic Tapes – Forgotten Treasures
For many, magnetic tapes are relics of the past, but they still play an essential role in long-term data archiving. Tape libraries are used in companies needing to store vast amounts of information economically.
For example, a large financial corporation regularly backs up transactions from the past 10 years. Magnetic tapes enable data storage without burdening the current IT infrastructure. Their downside is slower data access, but the achieved capacity and low storage cost make up for this disadvantage.
Variety is the Key to Success
Ultimately, there isn’t a single correct data storage method that works for every company. The key is to choose the right tool according to the specific needs, considering aspects such as budget, data access speed, security, or scalability.
Companies often combine different methods, creating a hybrid data storage environment. Local servers for quick work, cloud for flexibility, magnetic tapes for archiving, and SSDs where every second counts. This combination ensures not only greater security but also flexibility, which is invaluable today.