What are some examples of data that can be stored on Direct-attached storage (DAS)?

Direct-attached storage (DAS) refers to storage devices that are directly connected to a computer or server without a network in between. In the context of virtualization and environments like vSphere, DAS is typically used for storing data that is specific to a single host due to its direct connection.

VM files and templates are excellent examples of what can be stored on DAS because they are integral to the operation of virtual machines on that specific server. Storing VM files and templates directly on DAS ensures quick access to essential components for booting and running virtual machines, enhancing performance since there is no network latency involved.

In contrast, shared disk files among multiple hosts are better suited for storage solutions like Network Attached Storage (NAS) or Storage Area Networks (SAN), where multiple hosts can access the same data concurrently. Similarly, backup images and system restore points, while they can be stored locally on DAS, are often stored on more resilient solutions to ensure data availability and disaster recovery; it’s not a primary function of DAS. Lastly, migration logs and performance metrics are generally not substantial enough in size to warrant dedicated storage on DAS and are often better suited for storage in central management databases or logs.

Thus, the nature of DAS makes it most appropriate for the high-performance storage