NVMe Storage

NVMe: A Revolution in Data Storage

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IT transformation and digital transformation are raising the expectations for data storage technologies. Next-generation workloads that leverage big data analytics, cloud-based platforms and mobile computing are driving high performance requirements for storage media. Technologies like AI, real-time analytics and transaction-oriented databases that are sensitive to latency are among the fastest growing storage workloads. And while organizations have been relying on all-flash arrays to meet performance requirements, the addition of NVMe storage technology takes performance to the new level.

NVMe, or non-volatile memory express, is a standardized high-performance software interface for PCI express solid-state drives (SSDs) that use non-volatile memory (NVM). Offering greater storage throughput and lower latency, NVMe represents the latest evolutionary step for flash storage media and next generation storage class memory media.

Organizations seeking an NVMe solution with scalable and mature enterprise-class features will want to look to established technology providers with proven, mature platforms. That’s where Dell stands out.

The Benefits of NVMe Technology

Non-volatile memory express (NVMe) is an open logical device interface for accessing non-volatile storage media attached through a PCI Express (PCIe) bus or switch. First released in 2012, the NVMe specifications are designed to enable host hardware and software to fully exploit the levels of parallelism that are possible in modern solid-state drives and multi-core Intel Xeon processors.

Flash-based storage systems have traditionally utilized SAS (serial-attached SCSI) links to communicate with flash media. This protocol was originally designed for use with slower hard disk drives and while it can be used for communicating to flash, it is not optimal or efficient. NVMe takes advantage of the microsecond latency provided by all-flash arrays and eliminates the SCSI bottleneck. By significantly reducing the latency of traditional flash-based infrastructure, NVMe can better equip organizations to manage the extreme demands of high perrformance traditional applications and next-generation workloads.

Understanding NVMe Protocol and its Impact on Data Centers

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Unlike traditional storage interfaces, NVMe, or Non-Volatile Memory Express, is designed to maximize the capabilities of high-speed storage media like SSDs. The NVMe protocol operates over the PCI Express (PCIe) interface, which allows for faster data transfer rates and lower latency. This is particularly beneficial for data centers that require optimal performance for transactional databases, real-time analytics, and other latency-sensitive workloads.

  • NVMe explained: NVMe is an acronym for Non-Volatile Memory Express, a protocol designed to speed up access to storage media.
  • NVMe latency: One of the standout features of NVMe is its low latency, which is crucial for applications that require real-time data access.

Dell Technologies NVMe Data Storage Solutions

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As a global leader in data storage solutions, the majority of Dell storage solutions include NVMe technology. As used in our storage systems, NVMe, with its high performance, is key technology in helping to deliver:

  • Adaptable architectures
  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • Sustainability
  • Breakthrough Efficiencies
  • Cyber Resiliency
  • Intelligent Automation
  • And Continously Modern Storage designs

NVMe Storage Array and NVMe NAS Server: The Future of Enterprise Storage

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As enterprises continue to evolve, the need for efficient and fast storage solutions becomes paramount. This is where NVMe storage array and NVMe NAS server come into play. These solutions offer the fastest storage options available, making them ideal for businesses that require high-speed data access for various applications. Whether it's for a high-transaction database, real-time analytics, or large-scale virtualization, NVMe storage array and NVMe NAS server provide the performance and reliability that modern enterprises need.

  • NVMe storage: This refers to storage solutions that utilize Non-Volatile Memory Express technology for optimal speed and efficiency.
  • NVMe NAS server: A specialized server that uses NVMe technology to provide fast and efficient network-attached storage solutions.

Take the Worry out of Buying NVMe Storage

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Dell’s Future-Proof Program is designed to maximize your investments across Dell’s storage, data protection, HCI, networking and server solutions. The Future-Proof Program optimizes your IT lifecycle through a series of offers, assurances and guarantees, enabling you to focus on business priorities. The Future-Proof Program includes:

  • A three-year satisfaction guarantee
  • Storage data reduction and data protection deduplication guarantees
  • CloudIQ for AIOps
  • Opportunity to recycle storage and server equipment at no additional cost
  • Flexible payment solutions

NVMe FAQs

NVMe is an acronym for non-volatile memory express, a software interface that provides a more efficient and scalable streamlined protocol and command set for PCI Express solid-state drives using non-volatile memory. NVMe is designed specifically to take advantage of the internal parallelism and low latency inherent in flash-based storage devices. NVMe is expected to be the next evolutionary step in speed and latency reduction for flash media and next-generation storage class memory (SCM) media.

NVMe offers benefits that include:

  • Reduced latency in the host software stack.
  • Higher I/O operations per second.
  • Lower power consumption.

NVMe improves data center efficiency by reducing data access times and optimizing the data path, thus eliminating bottlenecks. This leads to better utilization of storage resources.

NVMe supports secure erase features and namespace write protection to safeguard data. It also integrates well with enterprise security solutions for data-at-rest encryption.

Yes, NVMe can be integrated into hybrid cloud architectures, offering the same benefits of speed and efficiency both on-premises and in the cloud.

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