A comprehensive guide to hyperconverged storage for MSPs

Hyperconverged storage continues to reshape the landscape of data management for managed service providers (MSPs). Fusing computing, storage, and networking into a unified system simplifies operations and offers scalability. This technology is particularly impactful in business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR), where efficient data management can give you a competitive edge.

But what is hyperconverged storage, exactly, and how can it benefit your clients? In this article, we’ll explore its architecture, compare it to traditional storage solutions, and discuss its potential role in your BCDR strategies. 

Understanding hyperconverged storage

Hyperconverged storage is a software-defined approach consolidating data center functions into a single, efficient infrastructure. This isn't just tech jargon; it's a strategic asset that can redefine how you manage data, computing, and networking resources. Three fundamental principles underpin this: 

• Simplicity: Streamlines data management by unifying disparate systems under a single, centralized interface.
• Scalability: Allows for easy expansion by dynamically adding resources, meeting growing client needs without the hassle of complex configurations.
• Efficiency: Optimizes resource utilization by automating resource allocation, thereby reducing operational costs and enhancing performance.

Hyperconverged storage operates within the broader framework of hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI), a software-defined, virtualized system that bundles computing, storage, and networking. This represents an evolution from traditional dedicated hardware, offering flexible storage pools that effortlessly scale. As your client's business expands, your HCI system can grow too—no need for complex configurations or extra hardware.

It streamlines your data center by integrating various components into one system—no more juggling between different servers, storage, and networking vendors. A single interface manages everything, freeing you to focus on delivering value to your clients.

BCDR and hyperconverged storage

In the realm of business continuity, hyperconverged storage helps build resilient strategies. One of its standout features is the streamlined implementation of the 3-2-1 backup rule, achieved through automated data deduplication and centralized management. 

Moreover, the architecture's support for both incremental and differential backup offers flexibility in data protection, allowing for more informed BCDR decision-making. Hyperconverged storage also contributes to BCDR effectiveness in other significant ways:

• High availability: Built-in fault tolerance and automatic failover capabilities minimize downtime.
• Rapid data restoration: Instant virtual machine recovery options accelerate the restoration process, making data immediately accessible after a disaster.
• Scalability: The ease of adding resources ensures that the BCDR strategy can adapt seamlessly to growing client needs. 

Why should MSPs care?

Why should you take note of hyperconverged storage? It's not just about reducing costs or simplifying management. It's about offering a scalable, reliable, and efficient solution that can adapt to your clients’ ever-changing needs. In today's competitive landscape, that's not just an advantage; it's a necessity.

Benefits of hyperconverged storage

Hyperconverged storage can be a game-changer for your MSP business, offering a range of benefits that streamline operations and enhance performance. Here are five major benefits:

Improved integration and simplification

Hyperconverged storage helps declutter the complex landscape of modern IT infrastructures. This is a golden opportunity to enhance operational efficiency and boost client satisfaction. Let's expand on this benefit:

• Single-vendor approach: Opting for a single-vendor strategy in hyperconverged storage not only simplifies your vendor relationships but also minimizes compatibility issues. The result is fewer operational disruptions, allowing you to concentrate on delivering exceptional services to your clients. In essence, it streamlines your operations to such an extent that focusing on core business functions becomes inherently easier.
• Streamlined operations for BCDR: A unified system architecture can significantly reduce both recovery time objectives (RTO) and recovery point objectives (RPO). This enhanced reliability can make your services more appealing and trustworthy to prospective clients.

Flexibility and scalability

Hyperconverged storage’s flexibility and scalability can help you keep pace with the ever-changing demands of the IT landscape—and the demand for your MSP services. The below benefits can be especially vital for prioritizing scalability as a critical business objective. 

• Adaptability & scalability: Hyperconverged storage's inherent adaptability ensures you're never confined to a rigid infrastructure. As your clients scale their operations, you can effortlessly scale your services without requiring a full system overhaul. This modularity becomes indispensable when considering expansion into new offerings or markets.
• Resource optimization: This technology also shines in resource optimization, ensuring you garner maximum returns on your investment. Efficient resource allocation enables you to cater to specific client requirements while simultaneously elevating system performance. As a result, you gain a competitive edge by offering high-performing, tailored services.

Hyperconverged storage’s flexibility and scalability empower you to be more agile and responsive. It's not just about meeting current needs; it's about preparing for future opportunities and challenges.

Increased efficiency and performance

Increased efficiency and performance are essential in an industry where performance metrics can make or break client relationships. Hyperconverged storage can help in the following areas:

• Resource utilization: Consolidating resources like computing and storage into a single framework allows for more efficient use. This boosts system performance and results in cost savings, a win-win for you and your clients.
• Low latency: This feature is not merely about speed. Low latency ensures that time-sensitive applications operate seamlessly, elevating client satisfaction through quality service delivery.

Increased efficiency and performance offer more than just technical advantages; they provide real-world benefits that can enhance your service offerings and contribute to business growth.

Simplified management and automation

The simplified management and automation advantages in its systems are particularly compelling. In an environment where operational efficiency is paramount, these features offer a streamlined system management and data protection approach. Let's examine these benefits in greater detail:

• Centralized control: One of the standout features is the centralized management interface. This unified dashboard simplifies computing, storage, and networking resources oversight. It reduces complexity and makes it easier to automate tasks and enforce policies, thereby enhancing operational efficiency.
• Automation in backups: Automation is not just about efficiency; it’s about reliability too. By automating complex backup decisions, you enhance the robustness of your BCDR strategies while also saving time

The simplified management and automation features don’t just make life easier for you. They can enhance your quality of service, reduce risks, and, ultimately, drive business success.

Enhanced security and compliance

Security and compliance are not just checkboxes but critical business imperatives. Hyperconverged storage systems offer built-in solutions that address these concerns with the following benefits: 

• Built-in security: Hyperconverged storage goes beyond basic security features. It offers specialized protections like data encryption and multi-factor authentication, adding another layer of defense against unauthorized access and data breaches. This enhances your IT infrastructure's overall security posture.
• Compliance simplified: The centralized nature of hyperconverged storage systems not only simplifies security but also streamlines compliance. It enables easy tracking, monitoring, and reporting of compliance metrics, reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties.

Hyperconverged storage's benefits directly tackle your daily challenges: complexity, scalability, efficiency, and security. This isn't merely a solution; it's a strategic upgrade for your entire IT ecosystem.

Use cases of hyperconverged storage for MSPs

You're likely grappling with the complexities of managing multiple clients' data needs. Hyperconverged storage offers a versatile solution tailored to various use cases, enhancing your service offerings. Here are some scenarios where this technology shines:

• Private clouds and virtualization: Hyperconverged is a cornerstone for building private clouds. Its modular architecture allows for seamless scalability, making managing virtual machines and applications easier. This is particularly useful for clients requiring robust, scalable solutions without the complexity of traditional setups.
• Remote office/branch office (ROBO) deployments: A hyperconverged storage architecture lends itself well to managing multiple remote locations, as it offers centralized management features. This simplifies the deployment and maintenance of storage solutions across various geographical locations.
• Data analytics and big data: Hyperconverged storage is inherently designed for data-intensive tasks due to its high-speed data processing capabilities and real-time analytics. The architecture's parallel computing enables clients to make data-driven decisions more swiftly and efficiently.
• DevOps and containerization: With the rise of DevOps and containerized applications, hyperconverged storage provides the ability to manage and scale these environments. It supports rapid iteration and deployment, which is crucial for development cycles.

Hyperconverged storage is not a one-size-fits-all solution but a versatile tool that can adapt to meet various client needs. Whether you are building a resilient BCDR strategy or managing a complex private cloud, this technology offers a range of benefits that can help you provide more value to your clients. 

Factors to consider when choosing hyperconverged storage 

You're sold on the idea of hyperconverged storage. But before you jump in, there are some critical factors to consider:

• Hardware and vendors: The choice of hardware and vendor isn't just about cost; it's a complex decision involving compatibility, long-term support, and specialized features. Comprehensively evaluating these elements is essential to forge beneficial long-term relationships.
• Integration with existing IT infrastructure: Chances are, you already have an established IT infrastructure, and the ease with which your new system integrates into this existing setup can be a make-or-break factor. Seamless integration can significantly reduce both initial setup time and long-term operational costs.
• Support and maintenance: The level of vendor support can be a decisive factor, especially in critical situations that demand immediate attention. Evaluate the quality of customer service, the availability of technical support, and the frequency of system updates and maintenance activities.

When choosing the right solution for your organization, carefully evaluating various factors is crucial. These considerations encompass everything from performance and scalability to cost-effectiveness and data protection. By thoroughly assessing these aspects, you can ensure that your solution aligns with your current requirements while remaining adaptable to future challenges.

One critical element to keep in mind is data backup and protection. It's essential to have a robust data backup strategy in place, particularly if your clients rely on software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions like Microsoft 365® or Google Workspace®. This is where our eBook, SaaS Data Backup, can help, with valuable insights into safeguarding your data in cloud-based environments, complementing your decisions. 

Implementation and best practices

As you consider adopting hyperconverged storage, the implementation phase is where the rubber meets the road. Here's how to navigate it effectively.

• Planning and assessment: A thorough assessment of your current infrastructure is crucial before diving in. This sets the stage for a seamless transition and ensures you're not biting off more than you can chew. A well-laid plan will also help you identify the specific needs of your clients, enabling you to offer tailored solutions that can scale as they grow.
• Data migration and transition: The actual process of moving data can be fraught with challenges. It's not just about transferring files; it's about ensuring data integrity and minimizing business downtime. By employing best practices for data migration, you mitigate risks and set the stage for a smoother operation.
• Business continuity and disaster recovery planning: In the context of BCDR, hyperconverged storage shines. Its inherent scalability and ease of management make it an ideal choice for robust business continuity and disaster recovery plans. You can offer your clients a more resilient and flexible data protection strategy by integrating features like incremental and differential backups.

By adopting hyperconverged storage, you're not just staying ahead of the curve, but redefining it. This technology amalgamates a range of benefits that elevate your service offerings, positioning you as an indispensable client partner. 

Data management is just one component of an effective backup and disaster recovery strategy. At ConnectWise, we offer a suite of BCDR software and backup solutions to help you deliver superior data protection and customer service. Watch a demo of ConnectWise BCDR today to experience the benefits and features firsthand.