Data deduplication is becoming known for being the smart way to compress data. Data deduplication is a data storage method of reducing data storage needs by eliminating redundant data. Only a single instance of the data is actually retained on the data storage media, such as disk or tape. Redundant data is replaced with a pointer to the unique data copy.
Data deduplication offers the great benefits of low storage space requirements, which will save money on storage expenses and make for longer disk retention periods. These benefits provide better recovery time objectives (RTO) for the organization.
Before an organization embraces data deduplication as a process, here are four simple, but smart tips for smarter data deduplication:
- The integrity of the data being deduped is far more important on the data storage device compared to data stored on any server because the data storage device will hold the only copy of data. Implement quality data storage with redundant hard drives and power supplies, such as EMC Data Domain or EMC VNXe.
- Prepare for growth today by procuring a data storage solution that is scalable or easily upgradable. Dedupe requires more overhead than traditional servers and data loss should be a major concern for administrators.
- Stay on top of the dedupe process by being knowledgeable of resources. Having trained personnel in-house or contracted is essential for any data storage process.
- Test regularly for data integrity from your data storage.
