Storage virtualization abstracts the space in physical hardware into software-defined storage that can be accessed from any device with an end-user interface. It lets multiple storage devices appear as one monolithic volume, and helps streamline data management.

Virtualization can be accomplished by two methods either host-based or network-based. Host-based virtualization (typically used in HCI systems and cloud storage) employs software to direct traffic. The host or hyper-converged systems, which are comprised of multiple hosts, offer virtual drives to guest computers with any configuration, whether they are virtual machines in enterprise environments, PCs that access servers for file storage, or servers using data via cloud. The host employs software to map the logical address of every block https://myvirtualstorage.blog of data on physical disks into an offset within a larger logical drive.

Network-based virtualization takes an alternative approach by shifting the complexity of the storage controller to an upper layer of the virtualization hardware. This typically requires additional components, like a network switch, in order to manage the increased I/O load. However, it can reduce costs while improving performance.

The layer on top of the virtualization hardware also gives the ability to perform backup and recovery functions, without being affected by the virtualization. Furthermore, it makes it easier to troubleshoot issues remotely – either by internal IT teams or managed service providers – which can increase resolution time. It also assists with scaling by removing the dependence between the location of the files that are accessible at the file level and the location the physical location they are stored on physical disks. This can help optimize storage utilization and server consolidation as well as performing non-disruptive file transfer.