In 2024, the landscape of data storage has become increasingly intricate, driven by the growing need for innovative solutions and strategic planning to manage expansive volumes of information effectively. The complexities of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), have necessitated a thorough understanding of best practices and methodologies for storage professionals as they navigate these advancements.
IT expert Brien Posey, writing for ITPro Today, highlights a variety of resources aimed at optimising storage practices across different platforms. Notably, he discusses how to enhance the performance of Hyper-V virtual machines by utilising a RAM disk. Posey details the steps required for exporting, importing, and managing virtual machines to ensure data integrity and streamline workflows, indicating the importance of efficiency in data management.
In his article on transitioning from VMware to Hyper-V, Posey focuses on the critical aspects of executing a storage refresh. He emphasizes the necessity of maintaining zero downtime during the migration process and preventing data loss, which are significant concerns for IT managers.
In light of potential unexpected events like cyberattacks and natural disasters, a robust disaster recovery plan has become paramount. An article detailing the essential strategies for developing such a plan underscores the need for organisations to devise methods that guarantee business continuity amid challenges that could jeopardise operations.
Moreover, the establishment of enterprise Network Attached Storage (NAS) systems is covered through a structured approach that includes connecting devices, creating storage pools, and configuring block storage and iSCSI targets. The guidance provided aims to equip professionals with step-by-step instructions that enhance their ability to effectively handle storage solutions.
AI workloads also present unique challenges, particularly in relation to storage volumes, access predictability, and constant data updates. An insightful article reviews strategies and options for managing AI training data, highlighting the necessity of specialised storage solutions that can support the rigorous demands of AI applications. Additionally, it compares cloud versus on-premises AI accelerators to aid businesses in selecting the optimal environment for their workloads.
For those managing disk space, a report on creating a visual representation of disk usage using a PowerShell tool offers practical advice for identifying which folders consume the most space. Posey further showcases the benchmarking of different storage options for installing Windows on virtual machines through a video, comparing traditional spinning disks, NVMe storage, and RAM disks.
In the context of cloud storage, a column in the roundup discusses strategies for mitigating dependence on a single cloud provider, encouraging a diversified approach to cloud solutions. This is especially relevant given the increasing reliance on cloud resources that can optimise efficiency through object storage solutions.
As AI continues to gain traction, it is evident that specialised storage will be integral to facilitating powerful compute resources like GPUs and FPGAs. This development is echoed in discussions surrounding the future of AI, particularly regarding closing the skills gap within IT teams as they adapt to the evolving technological landscape.
Overall, the synthesis of these articles indicates that as data storage becomes more complex, so too does the necessity for professionals within the industry to remain informed about the latest technologies and practices that can affect business operations and data management efficiencies.
Source: Noah Wire Services