Although data storage is only one of the many ways to benefit from virtualised hardware, it’s still the most common use of the technology. Despite this popularity, virtualised storage is susceptible to a number of mismanagement catastrophes.
We’ve outlined the three most common mistakes when utilising this technology, right here...
1. Poorly structured storage from the get go
Within a virtualised data storage framework, information is grouped into tiers based on how quickly that information needs to be accessible when requested. The fastest drives on the market are still very expensive, and most networks will have to organise data into three different tiers to avoid breaking the bank.
For example, archived or redundant data probably doesn’t need to be on the fastest drive you have, but images on your eCommerce website should get the highest priority if you want customers to have a good experience.
Without a virtualisation expert on hand, organising this data could quickly go off the rails. Ask your IT service provider to see a diagram of where your various data types are stored and how those connect to the software-defined drive at the hub of your solution. If there are too many relays for your server to pass through, it’ll be a slower solution than the non-virtualised alternatives.
2. Inadequately maintained virtualised storage
How long will your intended design last? Companies evolve and expand in short periods of time, and your infrastructure may look completely different months later. Virtualised data storage requires frequent revisions and updates to perform optimally.
Whoever is in charge of your virtualisation solution needs to have intimate knowledge of how data is being accessed. If you’re using virtual machines to access your database and move things around, they need to be precisely arranged to make sure you don’t have 10 workstations trying to access information from the same gateway while five other lanes sit unoccupied.
3. Incorrect application placement
In addition to watching how your data is accessed as the system shifts and grows, administrators also need to keep a close eye on the non-human components with access to the system. Virtualised applications that access your database may suffer from connectivity problems, but how would you know?
The application won’t alert you, and employees can’t be expected to report every time the network seems slow. Your virtualisation expert needs to understand what those applications need to function and how to monitor them closely as time goes on.
How can Diamond help?
Deploying any type of virtualised IT within your business network is a commendable feat. However, the work doesn’t stop there. Without the fine-tuning of an experienced professional, you risk paying for little more than a fancy name.
Please contact us today if you need any business advice about planning your data storage in the future. Complete the form below or call us today on 1300 307 907.
Partially published with permission from TechAdvisory.org
