Data Storage: Direct Attached Vs. Network Attached

In today’s increasingly connected digital world, data serves as lifeblood; the aphorism “information is power” quite neatly sums up just how important it is. Although people going about their daily lives generally give little thought, if any, to where the data they consume comes from or how it reaches them, these are issues of critical importance for manufacturing and industrial businesses.

Data is a corporate asset that many consider indispensable in driving results, improving competitiveness, and enhancing customer service — in short, all the things that make a business successful. But before data can deliver the invaluable insights that drive enterprises forward, it needs to be collected and stored in a secure, readily accessible way.

With the explosion of mobile technologies, digital media, and smart connected devices, the amount of data produced on a daily basis is nothing short of staggering. In fact, it was estimated that 2017 would see the creation of more data than in the previous 5,000 years of human history. Safe, efficient data storage is of increasing importance for modern-day businesses.

Working with the right storage solution will ensure the necessary scalability, security, and prompt access to support demand and guarantee optimal service quality successfully. At the same time, an ideal solution will take into account company expenses, margins, and returns on investment (ROI).

Two popular data storage solutions, direct attached storage (DAS) and network attached storage (NAS), can typically meet the needs of today’s industrial companies.

Direct Attached Storage (DAS)

Everyone who owns a computer is dealing with DAS, even if they have no idea what the term means. DAS was the first type of storage solution, and the name was coined later to distinguish it from network attached storage. Internal and external hard drives are typical examples of DAS storage.

As its name suggests, DAS describes a data storage model in which the device is attached directly to a server through a cable. DAS connections are most often established via protocols such as Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA), Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA), and Small Computer System Interface (SCSI).

A storage system built on DAS revolves around one host computer, which means that access to the data can only be obtained through the dedicated machine. This limitation can be restricting in some cases. However, DAS also offers multiple benefits, which explains its lasting popularity despite the emergence of more sophisticated storage options. Key advantages include simple setup and configuration, low initial costs, and high speed. DAS remains the ideal solution for small businesses, where data typically needs to be shared only locally and controlling expenses are always a significant concern.

On the downside, this storage option would not be appropriate for enterprises concerned about scalability. DAS would also be inadequate for businesses that rely on collaboration within a large workforce, as the stored data can only be accessed through the host computer.

Network Attached Storage (NAS)

NAS storage solutions are ideal for organizations where scalability and shared access are top priorities. Put simply, NAS is a dedicated file server, a hard drive linked within a network. While DAS is more of a peripheral device, NAS is essentially a computer, featuring an IP address, a processor, an operating system, and a network card. A NAS storage system is a collection of specialized computers that communicate with each other over a network, typically via a wireless connection.

Businesses choose NAS when they need a data storage system that can be quickly scaled and allows multiple users to access resources. It is particularly well-suited to organizations with substantial transaction volumes. It also offers superior reliability in the event of an outage.

While NAS can deliver savings in the long term, this method can involve quite a substantial initial investment. It should also be noted that performance will depend on bandwidth parameters, with slower latency and maximum data transfer issues being among the most important drawbacks to consider.

Deciding on the Right Type of Data Storage

Given the importance of data storage in today’s ever-evolving digital landscape, businesses must weigh their specific requirements carefully before choosing between DAS and NAS. While budget and human resources will obviously affect the decision, no less important are considerations such as capacity, scalability, and performance.

Data storage isn’t just about cramming data into computing devices and later accessing it; the information needs to be reliably backed up, and recovery protocols must be put in place. Corporate annals feature quite a few companies that have failed to survive a major data loss.

Such a critical decision calls for evaluating all pros and cons in order to strike an ideal balance between functionality and cost efficiency.

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