Data Storage Technologies

Data Storage TechnologiesK.L.JAMESInformation has become very costly and indispensable in recent times. Information is present everywhere and is created continuously. It can be commonly seen that organizations are struggling hard for properly and effectively managing the huge volumes and varieties of information flowing through business systems, as the quantum of information is increasing with the passing of time. The use of information in its originally created form and style creates several difficulties and hence this is not done. The essentially required data is extracted from the huge information pile by employing suitable methods and appropriate technologies. The extracted data is properly stored for archiving and effective retrieving. Storing all the routine information dealt by organizations is costly and difficult. With the changes in requirements and technologies, businesses are constantly exploring and experimenting new methods for properly storing and effectively managing data. The ageing storage architectures and technologies are found too costly in terms of cost and time spent for effective data storage and management. Newer technologies such as converged and hyper converged infrastructures, public and private clouds, scaled up and scaled out devices, flash technology and software defined solutions are making the storage efficient and better. The text book Data Storage Technologies discusses the different concepts associated with data storage and the technologies used as well as the trends and practices followed in the designing and managing of efficient data storage systems. The book is targeted for students undergoing courses in data storage systems as well as for professionals working in related fields. The objective of the book is to introduce to the reader the basic concepts associated with data storage, steps necessary for designing well suited data storage solutions and the effective ways of using new technologies for data storage and management. Starting with an introductory chapter dealing with the basic concepts, the book progresses to discuss new topics like storage virtualization and cloud storage. The end chapter worksheets and short answer questions act as resources for self assessment and to test the new knowledge gained from each chapter of the book. Elegant and simple style of presentation makes reading of this book a pleasant experience. The book will be found highly acceptable to those who are interested to get acquainted with the latest and the newest trends associated with data storage technologies.