The new reality of data storage

In recent months, we have seen a significant shift in the way organizations store and manage their data. More and more companies are opting for a hybrid storage model, which combines the benefits of both Cloud and on-premises solutions. This newsletter explores why this movement is taking place and highlights key themes involved.

Why migrate to a hybrid storage model?

The rationale for migrating to a hybrid storage situation is clear for many organizations. This change is often driven by the need to control costs, avoid vendor lock-ins, and meet strict compliance requirements. Below we discuss the main factors that influence this choice.

Cost control
Many organizations that initially opted for full cloud storage face unexpectedly high costs. Variable costs for data storage and access in the cloud can add up quickly, especially for frequent access to large data sets. A hybrid model helps manage these costs by storing critical data on-premises, where costs are more predictable.

Vendor lock-ins
Complete reliance on a single cloud provider can lead to vendor lock-ins, with organizations bound by the provider’s prices, terms and technical limitations. By implementing a hybrid model, organizations maintain flexibility and can spread their data across different platforms, reducing their dependence on a single vendor. In our recent blog, we elaborate on the importance of vendor neutrality in data storage.

Data security and compliance
Cloud storage brings data security and compliance challenges. Regulations such as the GDPR require strict control over data, including where it is stored and who has access to it. On-premise storage offers organizations greater control and security over their data, allowing them to better meet regulatory requirements.

Performance optimization
For applications that require low latency and high performance, on-premises storage is often the best choice. Hybrid models allow data that needs to be accessed quickly to be stored locally, while less critical data can be moved to the cloud.

Key themes of hybrid storage

Key themes that make the move to a hybrid storage model attractive include various aspects of data management and operational efficiency. These themes play a crucial role in organizations’ decision to embrace a hybrid storage model.

Data security
In a hybrid environment, data is stored in multiple locations and ways, significantly reducing the risks of data loss and cyberattacks. This provides a more robust layer of security that is essential in today’s threat-filled digital landscape.

Accessibility:
Hybrid storage systems improve data accessibility by leveraging the benefits of both local and cloud storage. This means that organizations can access their data quickly and efficiently, which is essential for responsive business operations.

Cost efficiency:
Balancing on-premise and cloud storage allows organizations to align their storage needs with their budget without compromising on performance or security. A hybrid model allows the right data to be stored in the right place, resulting in lower operational costs and more efficient use of resources.

Proven systems for on-premise storage

FAST LTA’s Silent Bricks and Silent Cubes are proven solutions for the on-premises component of a hybrid storage infrastructure within a wide range of businesses. Silent Bricks provide flexible, scalable and secure storage for backup and VTL libraries. Silent Cubes, on the other hand, are specifically designed for long-term archiving and provide a durable and reliable data storage solution. Thanks to physical WORM technology, data cannot be modified or deleted. This is ideal for organizations that meet stringent compliance requirements and need long-term data protection. Both systems integrate seamlessly with existing IT infrastructures, making them an ideal choice for companies looking to take their storage to the next level.

Are you also running into unexpectedly high costs, or are you still not fully convinced of the cybersecurity of your current storage infrastructure? Consider a hybrid infrastructure with the on-premises security of Silent Bricks and/or Silent Cubes to gain even more confidence in the security of your storage infrastructure.