7 Different Types of Servers Storage for SMEs

Every small and medium sized business, or SME needs to have a decent method to store and manage data. Whether the concern is customer information, financial records, or other project files, it is essential that the business can protect, reach, and organize their data. 

The server storage solution will help businesses significantly improve performance, avoid data loss, and be prepared for expansions.

However, the selection of the correct storage type can be confusing. Some storage options are designed to focus on speed, while others focus on large capacity or data security.

Let’s explore seven different types of server storage for SMEs and how each one can help businesses manage their data more efficiently.

1. Direct-Attached Storage (DAS) – Simple and Fast

DAS is the most elementary form of server storage. It connects directly to a computer or server without the use of a network. This makes it an excellent option for businesses that require fast, local access to files without complicated setups. 

According to a report, DAS’s architecture involves the direct connection of the storage device to the server. This straightforward architecture greatly simplifies data access and management but could limit scalability.

How It Works

DAS comprises storage devices, hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs), which are physically attached to a server or workstation. It may be installed inside the computer or through external interfaces such as USB, SATA, or SAS, or may be integrated within a server data center for local management of data storage.

2. Network-Attached Storage (NAS) – Easy File Sharing

NAS is a centralized storage system. It connects to a business’s network, therefore allowing multiple users and devices access to shared files. It’s ideal for small and medium businesses that need to have a straightforward, cost-efficient way of sharing data within the office.

The Network Attached Storage (NAS) Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 19.5% during the forecast period.

NAS offers the benefit of multiple employees sharing important files by giving them access, thus enabling collaboration more effectively than DAS. NAS devices can also be configured to automate backup procedures that ensure data is protected.

Several NAS devices offer in-built operating systems that help to make configuration and management much easier. File access can also be made using Wi-Fi or Ethernet over a connected device. Such devices can be laptops, desktops, or even mobile phones.

3. Storage Area Network (SAN) – Powerful and Scalable

SAN is a high-performance storage solution used by businesses that need fast and reliable access to large amounts of data. Unlike NAS, which operates on standard office networks, SAN creates a separate, dedicated network for storage. This helps improve performance and reduce network congestion.

How SAN Works

SANs connect numerous devices through FC or iSCSI links that provide a storage pool, all stored centrally. Several servers may share the same data at higher speeds, ideal for companies handling sensitive applications.

4. Cloud Storage – Store Data Online

Cloud storage allows businesses to store data on remote servers instead of on-premises hardware. With an internet connection, employees can access files from anywhere, making it a great option for remote teams and businesses with multiple locations.

According to recent data, approximately 60% of corporate data is currently stored in the cloud. This signifies a significant increase from previous years, where only around 30% of corporate data was stored in the cloud. 

Benefits of Cloud Storage

• No hardware is needed – No investment in physical servers.
• Access- Employees can access data from any location.
• Automatic Backups-Reduces chances of data loss.
• Scalability – Storage can be expanded as needed.
• Cost-Effective – Businesses only pay for the storage they use.

5. Hybrid Storage – Best of Both Worlds

Hybrid storage combines both local storage (such as NAS or SAN) and cloud storage to provide flexibility, speed, and security. Businesses can store frequently used data on local storage for fast access while using cloud storage for backups and long-term data retention.

Why Hybrid Storage is Ideal for SMEs

✔ Faster Performance – Critical files are stored locally, reducing latency.

✔ Cost Savings – Businesses don’t have to purchase large on-premises storage.

✔ Data Protection – Hybrid storage allows businesses to create disaster recovery backups in the cloud.

✔ Flexible Access – Employees can work remotely while still having access to important files.

6. Object Storage – Organizes Data Efficiently

Object storage is the latest evolved technology of storage, which enables organizations to store unstructured data such as videos, images, and backups. This storage particularizes files as “objects” that can be uniquely identified. As this type of storage is much easier to search for and recover than the usual file system model in keeping data in folders.

Moreover, object storage is highly scalable and mainly used in cloud environments. The business areas that use object storage are the ones that handle large media files, data archives, or big data applications.

Features of Object Storage

• Eliminates file system limitations.
• Stores large amounts of data efficiently.
• Allows metadata tagging for better searchability.

7. Flash Storage – Super-Fast and Reliable

Flash storage is a type of storage that uses SSDs instead of traditional spinning hard drives. It offers higher speeds, better durability, and lower power consumption. Many businesses are switching to flash storage for better performance and reliability.

Why Flash Storage is Great

✔ Speed – Data reads and writes are much faster than HDDs.
✔ Durability – No moving parts mean fewer chances of failure.
✔ Energy Efficiency – Uses less power, reducing electricity costs.
✔ Low Latency – Improves system performance, especially for databases.

Best Use Cases

• High-performance applications.
• Fast access to customer data.
• Businesses wanting to reduce downtime.

Conclusion

The choice of the right server storage depends on the business requirements. SMEs whose storage requirements are simple would best fit into the DAS or NAS environment. Companies which are looking at very high performance with scalability, however, tend to prefer SAN or flash storage. Businesses requiring flexibility and being cost-effective can consider cloud or hybrid storage. Organizations dealing with massive, unstructured data have no other alternative than object storage.

Investing in the right storage solution helps SMEs improve workflow, secure data, and scale effectively. By understanding these seven options, businesses can select the best storage type that fits their growth and operational needs.

Also read: 5 Innovative Data Storage Solutions You Need to Know About