Data is crucial for businesses of all sizes, and the concept of being able to store it anywhere and access it from everywhere is highly attractive.
This is where global file systems (GFS) come into play, aiming to disconnect physical storage from applications and users by consolidating on-premise and cloud data into a hybrid cloud storage solution with file access.
With a GFS, users can view files as if they are all stored in one location, even though the data may be spread across multiple physical sites.
Let’s delve into how a GFS achieves this and the various forms that global file systems can take.
Files, file systems, and namespaces
Larger organizations often have multiple data stores and various file systems, leading to data silos that hinder information sharing and data mobility between applications. By transitioning to a GFS, organizations can leverage cloud and hybrid storage solutions.
Global file systems typically leverage object storage with a global namespace, allowing data to be stored in multiple locations while appearing as if it’s in a single place to applications.
The adoption of object storage is being fueled by hyperscale cloud providers due to its scalability across multiple data centers. Global file systems extend this capability to enable enterprises to distribute data across local storage and public cloud resources.
Global file system features
A GFS utilizes a global namespace to aggregate storage across different physical locations, with object storage employing a flat structure and unique identifiers for scalability.
To provide application compatibility, a global file system connects its file service in the cloud to local hardware or virtualized applications on the user’s LAN, acting as a cache to maintain a single namespace for data storage across various cloud resources and on-premise data centers.
Global file systems offer file locking to prevent data errors from simultaneous write attempts, a feature lacking in object storage. Suppliers enhance GFS with migration services, support for multiple operating systems, and seamless application access.
Use cases for global file systems
Global file systems are ideal for storing large volumes of unstructured data, providing control over data placement and compatibility with existing systems. They cater to organizations seeking global namespace benefits and cloud scalability without transitioning directly to object storage.
Global file system suppliers and what they offer
Various GFS suppliers offer unique products with different approaches. CTERA provides Edge, CTERA Drive, and VDI for seamless file-sharing services across multiple devices and platforms.
Hammerpace combines cloud, data centers, and edge environments into a unified data set with advanced features like data tiering and file versioning. Nasuni’s UniFS serves as the foundation for its File Data Platform, offering local cached access and performance analytics.
Panzura’s CloudFS creates an optimized dataset for enterprises with support for mobile devices, while Peer Software’s PeerGFS offers hybrid and multicloud support with object storage integration. Qumulo targets high-performance applications with its software-defined file system spanning on-premise and cloud storage.
