Avoiding 8 Common Pitfalls: A Guide to Using DAS Storage Efficiently

A quick and affordable solution to increase a workstation’s or personal computer’s storage capacity is to use Direct-Attached Storage (DAS).

But even with its seeming simplicity, there are a few traps that an unsuspecting user could fall victim to. A planned strategy is needed to maximize storage utilization, optimize performance, and guarantee data security.

DAS can be utilized as private storage linked to dedicated servers in data centers and as file servers in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMBs).

This post explores eight typical DAS storage issues and provides you with insightful knowledge on how to use DAS storage successfully.

What is DAS Storage?

DAS storage directly connected to a workstation, server, or personal computer without being connected to a network is known as direct-attached storage or DAS.

Hard drives and solid-state drives (SSD), optical media, including CDs and DVDs, and tape storage are examples of direct-attached storage.

Common Pitfalls of DAS Storage to Avoid

Pitfall 1. Unrestrained Capacity Growth

Although DAS storage solutions are available in different capacities, data tends to grow exponentially. A huge storage pool for a single user may seem appealing at first, but it might be trickery.

You might discover that you’re gathering obsolete projects, redundant data, and pointless files over time. This “capacity creep” can seriously impair performance and force you to search desperately for more storage.

Resolution: Put into practice a solid data management plan. Review files and folders regularly, archiving or removing out-of-date or superfluous data. When appropriate, use compression technologies to minimize file sizes. Take into account cloud storage options for long-term data archiving that is rarely accessed.

Pitfall 2. Ignoring Performance Optimization

When it comes to typical network-attached storage (NAS), DAS systems offer faster data transfer speeds; but, if it is not tuned appropriately, performance can suffer. File fragmentation, outdated drivers, and jumbled files are some of the factors that can contribute to slower access times.

Resolution: Plan for routine disk defragmentation to preserve ideal file positioning. Make sure that the controllers and DAS storage device you’re using have the most recent drivers loaded. To cut down on search times, logically arrange your files and make good use of folders.

Pitfall 3. Disregarding Security Factors

Due to its direct computer connection, DAS storage is susceptible to malware or unauthorized access to the computer it is attached to. You can’t rely on your operating system’s security features alone.

Response: Encrypt critical information kept on the DAS device and create strong password security for your computer. If you have access control software on the DAS storage itself, think about using it.

Maintain regular data backups to an alternative location—ideally a cloud storage solution—to provide disaster recovery in the event of hardware malfunctions or security issues.

Pitfall 4. Undervaluing Backups

Hardware issues can occur in DAS storage devices just like in any other electrical part. Data loss results from losing a DAS device unless you have a solid backup plan in place.

Resolution: Establish a regular backup routine and store your data in a different location, such as a cloud storage service or NAS device.

For important projects, think about using a version control system so you can make sure you can go back to earlier iterations as needed. To make sure your backups are operating correctly, test them frequently.

Pitfall 5. Misusing RAID Technology

Combining several DAS drives into a single logical storage unit is possible because of the Redundant Array of independent disks (RAID) technology, which also provides fault tolerance, data redundancy, and improved performance. All configurations of RAID have different benefits and drawbacks, though, as it is a complicated technology.

Solution: If RAID technology is something you’re thinking about for your DAS storage, speak with a data storage expert to figure out the best RAID setup for your needs and budget.

Recognize that there are inherent hazards connected to specific RAID setups, like the potential for data loss in the event of multiple disk failures.

Pitfall 6. Handling DAS Storage Like a Long-Term Archive System

For long-term data archiving, DAS storage isn’t always the best option, even though it offers a conveniently accessible storage pool. Physical harm and technical malfunctions that result in permanent data loss can occur to DAS devices.

Answer: Think about putting in place a tiered storage system. Cloud storage or NAS devices should be used for long-term archiving and disaster recovery; DAS storage should be used for data that is updated often.

An individual DAS device is not as secure as cloud storage, which provides a lower level of physical security and redundancy.

Pitfall 7. Disregarding Maintenance Needs

DAS storage systems need to be maintained regularly to ensure maximum performance and endurance, just like any other piece of hardware.

Solution: To maintain your DAS equipment, adhere to the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines. Updates to the firmware, dust filter cleaning, and physical inspection of the device and its wires for damage are a few examples of this.

Pay attention to the DAS device’s operating temperature to avoid overheating and possible component failure.

Pitfall 8. Not Making Enough Plans for Future Growth

Your DAS storage capacity may run out of space as your data needs change. When compared to alternative storage options, scaling storage capacity with DAS can be costly and time-consuming.

Answer: Think about your future storage requirements while choosing a DAS device. Select an option that allows for some expansion with the addition of more drives or enclosures.

A hybrid strategy might be used instead, using network-attached storage (NAS) for long-term archiving and future growth requirements and distributed array storage (DAS) for data that is accessed regularly.

An Appropriate Tool for the Task

DAS storage is still an effective tool in a lot of situations. You can integrate it into your storage system with knowledge about its advantages and disadvantages. DAS works well for basic storage expansion requirements for individual workstations.

NAS and SAN solutions could be a better fit for complicated operations that need scalability, centralized control, and remote access.

You can choose the storage option that will help you attain the best possible performance and efficiency in your digital workflow by carefully weighing your needs and financial constraints.

The Bottom Line

A quick and affordable way to increase storage capacity is via DAS storage. You can optimize its effectiveness and guarantee that it achieves its intended purpose by steering clear of typical errors and putting the above-mentioned advice into practice.

Remember that you may strategically utilize DAS inside your storage architecture if you are aware of its benefits and drawbacks.