Scality Intros Object Based RING Organic Storage
Scality has introduced its new object-based approach to storage, RING Organic Storage. RING is composed of a number of nodes that are typically off-the-shelf generic x86 servers with direct attached storage. The RING software links the nodes together.
The RING operates like a peer-to-peer network, with no need for a master database. Each node is functionally equivalent and constantly monitors a number of its peers. This object-based approach to storage means that organizations can replace nodes as required without affecting application functionality. As storage requirements increase, and as newer, lower-cost hardware becomes available, new servers can be added or modified to the RING. If a server fails or an old server is removed from the system, no manual intervention is required. When servers are added or removed from the system, RING automatically rebalances replicas and server loads.
RING Organic Storage allows for virtually unlimited scalability. Another challenge is that traditional storage area network (SAN) and network attached storage (NAS) systems become obsolete after a few years and must be replaced in their entirety. RING enables organizations to upgrade storage hardware incrementally, which reduces costs and eliminates down time.
Further information about RING Organic Storage can be found on Scality's site.
About the Author
Leila Meyer is a technology writer based in British Columbia. She can be reached at [email protected].