Data Storage
Efficient operation of a large number of virtual or physical servers requires equally efficient management of their storage systems, which often range from tens to hundreds of terabytes. This can only be achieved through the use of centralized shared data storage. Local disk storage directly attached to individual servers is considered outdated and inefficient—both in terms of manageability and utilization of available capacity.
To address this, ICT TUKE has several centralized storage systems with varying capacities and performance characteristics. In day-to-day operations, we primarily use NetApp storage arrays, which provide storage capacity as a service for both virtual and physical servers.
Servers are connected to these storage systems using different physical topologies—dedicated (FC) or shared (Ethernet)—and a variety of communication protocols, including NFS, SMB, FC, iSCSI, FCoE, and FC-NVMe. The storage systems support efficient file system expansion without the need for time-consuming reinstallation, as well as the creation of snapshots for quick recovery to previous operational states.
NetApp, a global leader in data storage and management, is currently the world leader in data storage and management.
NetApp storage arrays run on their proprietary ONTAP operating system and utilize the WAFL (Write Anywhere File Layout) file system, which supports snapshot functionality. From a hardware perspective, the systems are internally redundant, equipped with multiple power supplies, multiple network interfaces, proactive internal diagnostics, and configurable levels of data redundancy through various RAID (Redundant Array of Independent/Inexpensive Disks) configurations.
Data Backup
An integral part of the data storage system is the backup solution, which ensures that critical data can be restored if lost or damaged. At ICT TUKE, this function is handled by the Veeam data protection platform.