Understanding why Data Storage matters With data so important to so many facets of life, work and more, storing that data is a secure but accessible way has become crucial to everything from healthcare to automotive servicing. Data storage is the process of retaining data on physical media, whether that is a hard disk inside your computer or laptop, an external drive of some kind or even using a datacenter or cloud computing hardware. Data storage is not just a single concept though, there are a variety of data storage options that depend on the type of data being stored and how it will be used. Classified Data Storage Because much of the data we use today is confidential, from medical records to vehicle location data, data storage has evolved to meet the needs of sensitive information. This offers improved security and is often called classified data storage. This type of data storage seeks to deliver a 3-part solution that brings Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability. Sometimes referred to as CIA, the aim is to keep data safe and secure, while retaining access for those who need it. This type of storage requires multiple oversight solutions to ensure that security is maintained, including data encryption, comprehensive access control and regular audits. Cloud Data Storage If you want to have scalable data storage that can expand to meet your demands as required, while also enjoying the security benefits of offsite storage, cloud data storage is the answer. Your data is held on drives in a cloud data center, which you access via a secure web connection as and when required. The ability to increase storage capacity as needed and access your data from any device with an internet connection, wherever you may be, makes this a popular option. For applications such fleet management, where there is a lot of data on numerous vehicles being generated, having cloud storage is a particular advantage, which is why AutoPi Cloud Management uses the technology. Local Data Storage The simplest approach to data storage, using hard drives in a computer or service to hold data at the same location you are using it. It could be internal or portable external hard drives, including both traditional HDDs and solid state SDDs, but all offer fast, easy access to your data whenever you want, and complete control over your data management without needing any other apps or services. AutoPi TMU CM4 uses local data storage to deliver the reliable, accessible performance users are looking for. Cloud v Local for Data Storage? Which is right for you will depend entirely on how the data is collected, what it is used for and the way you want to be able to access it, and of course, your budget. Cloud storage brings several advantages, you can access it from anywhere with any internet connected device, it is off-site so less vulnerable to loss if disaster strikes your location and it can quickly scale to meet your data demands. However, that does come at a cost, cloud data servers are apaid for service, so your data storage will have ongoing monthly costs, and if your internet goes out, or is not running well, it can mean that you can’t access essential data. Local data storage is simple, cost efficient and easy to manage. You buy appropriate hard drives as a one of cost, and you use them to store data. This means you have complete control of your data at all times, can access it even if you lose internet connection, and in general, have faster access to the data you are storing. However, if you suddenly need more storage, it can be a hassle as you need to physically purchase more drives, and should there be a failure on a device, or your location is hit by natural disaster, you could lose data. Conclusion Data storage is becoming more important every day. As our technology becomes more reliant on data, the need for stable, secure storage is clear. Which data storage is right for you will depend on the use case for that data. There is no single correct answer, and with each option having benefits, take the time to find the solution that works for your specific situation.
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