Table of Contents
When you’re managing large applications, data storage should be one of your top priorities. That’s why it’s so important to learn about the different forms of storage available today.
Object Storage vs Block Storage: How are They Different?
Both object storage and block storage are types of cloud storage. Both forms can be used for various applications but they have many differences too. Most importantly, they use different forms of object storage architecture. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about these different forms of storage.
What is Object Storage?
Most storage systems turn data into a structured file storage system. However, object storage takes a different approach, turning data into objects. Object storage has been used since the late 90s and has become more widely used in recent years.
What is Block Storage?
Block storage is a more traditional method of managing data. It turns data into a hierarchical system of files. The system uses a data lookup table to access information. Data is stored in a system called a data lake or data pool.
How Object Storage and Block Storage Work
Understanding the ways these storage systems work can help you to use them more effectively. It can also allow you to make a more educated choice.
Block Storage
Block storage works by arranging data into different-sized blocks with an identifier. These blocks are divided and stored in separate places. The identifiers allow the stored data to be easily accessed and reassembled.
Object Storage
Unlike block storage, object storage stores all the blocks of data, together with user-created metadata and a unique name in a single place called a bucket. It uses a system of unstructured data for simple, efficient storage.
What are the Pros and Cons of Object Storage and Block Storage?
Each system of data management has its own advantages and disadvantages. Think carefully about these attributes before making a choice.
Benefits of Object Storage
Object storage is flexible. It can work well as part of cloud storage or as part of a physical system. It adapts effectively to the needs of individuals and businesses in all areas. The data storage system is easily scalable for growing organizations, so it’s often a good way of future-proofing operations.
Advantages of Object storage also include nearly unlimited space for users. Even with large amounts of objects stored within the data lake, you’re likely to benefit from excellent performance.
This kind of storage can provide users with unlimited, customizable metadata too. Using object storage helps with data analysis and creating custom retrieval systems for your objects.
Cons of Object Storage
The lack of data structure in object storage can cause some issues with organization. Because all files are equal when turned into objects, they float around inside the data lake. Without the usual hierarchy used to manage files, data retrieval and organization becomes more difficult.
Depending on how you utilize your block storage, you may run into performance problems at some point down the line. This could result in longer wait times for accessing your data. It could also lead to increasing costs as retrieving items might lead to increasing use of bandwidth.
Object storage is a bad idea for managing dynamic data sets. When data is constantly changing, objects can’t change to recognize this. You would need to manually change each object to reflect the change in data and this could be a serious drain on your resources.
Benefits of Block Storage
Because of the way it organizes data, block storage is very fast. That means it’s easy to get your data in a hurry, including large files like videos. It benefits from high performance and low latency, making it extremely consistent. Unstructured data requires less bandwidth for management purposes and data retrieval.
Block storage also offers plenty of flexibility. You can change storage volumes and move servers without losing performance. You can also modify files easily. A block is easier to change than
Cons of Block Storage
Block storage has limited storage. However, this limit is often very large, meaning it is essentially unlimited for the user.
Another key drawback of block storage is that it does not allow for the storage of metadata.
Block storage is normally more expensive than object storage solutions. But with our cost-effective packages, you’ll enjoy great value for your services.
Which use Cases are Better for Object Storage? For Block Storage?
Both object storage and block storage have different situations where they may be the better option. Let’s take a look at some use cases for both forms of data storage.
Object Storage Use Cases
Object storage works great with large amounts of unstructured data. System backups, data archives, and analytics are all ideal use cases.
Object storage is also ideal for the storage of large media files. The data storage architecture used with object storage systems can reduce your costs, making it easier and more efficient for you to access your files. This is also an ideal way to back up crucial information.
Block Storage Use Cases
Block storage is great for smaller amounts of data that need to be accessed regularly. For example, database storage works well as part of block storage.
Block storage is commonly used to run virtual machines, as it can quickly access the information these applications need to run. The high-performance data retrieval system reduces the amount of bandwidth normally associated with running virtual machines. An organization such as a software company might benefit from using block storage, as they may need to use numerous virtual machines and this could put a serious strain on their bandwidth.
Choosing the Right Storage Solution for Your Data Needs
In the modern era, data management is more important than ever. Choosing the right storage system can be the difference between success and failure for your organization.
Whether you’re looking for block storage, object storage, or something else, MoonQube can help. We can help with all kinds of cloud storage, offering customizable metadata and fast support. Check out our different storage packages and you’re sure to find something that will suit your needs.