Storage virtualization abstracts the storage management from physical hardware, and creates a central pool of storage capacity. This allows applications to run on a single or smaller number of servers. This also eliminates the connection between the data that is accessed at the level of the file and the physical location of the server. This makes it much easier to optimize storage, conduct non-disruptive migrations of files, and much more.
Storage virtualization is an important element of modern IT environments. It has many benefits that significantly enhance IT operations and lower costs. It allows the organization to reduce costs by reducing the number physical servers needed for each application. It also makes it easier to move to new platforms for technology.
Virtual data storage can simplify the IT environment by reducing the amount of hardware needed to support applications. In the past, each application needed its own hardware, such as printers or email servers. With traditional storage methods for data, organizations typically overcrowded their datacenters with expensive and redundant hardware. With virtualization of storage, an IT team can adopt an easier approach and cut down on the expense of maintaining a highly complex datacenter.
Utilizing virtual storage, an organization can connect its server SAN and reduce its CAPEX by using the same internal drives to serve both purposes. It can also achieve greater performance and higher storage utilization by combining multiple storage arrays and disks into one pool that can be accessible by all servers within the SAN.