Maximising storage efficiency

Overview

Over the last several years the unbridled proliferation of storage systems has come under increased scrutiny. Coupled with macroeconomic pressure, storage efficiency is a key initiative for almost every company. To address this initiative, companies are increasingly turning to new approaches to realize efficiency gains. In particular, thin provisioning is being rapidly adopted. The value is simple: allocate the capacity needed, then grow the space dynamically and on demand. Thin provisioning enables the application to be matched according to its actual storage consumption so the storage system can support more applications over a longer period of time, allowing storage administrators to delay storage purchases and reducing capital outlay. Applications and associated data go through a lifecycle of initial provisioning, day-to-day use, and termination. In some cases, applications continue in perpetuity, but most become obsolete, or associated projects reach their completion. Thin provisioning allows the application to grow as space is required. Thin reclamation allows the storage administrator