A manufacturing customer is running Oracle volumes on their existing //X90R3 array and would like to use FlashArray for their Windows file shares. They are asking if it is feasible to do this.
How should the SE respond?
A.
The customer should migrate their Windows file servers to Pure.
B.
The customer needs to upgrade to XL to be able to use FA File.
C.
The customer should be able to use their current FlashArray.
TheSE should respond that the customer can use their current FlashArray for Windows file sharesalongside their existing Oracle workloads. Pure Storage FlashArray is a versatile platform capable of supporting multiple workloads, including block storage for databases (e.g., Oracle) and file services for Windows file shares.
Why This Matters:
FlashArray Versatility:
Pure Storage FlashArray supports both block and file workloads through its integrated architecture. While FlashArray is primarily known for block storage, it can also support file workloads usingFA File Services, which provides NFS and SMB protocols for file sharing.
The customer does not need to migrate their Windows file servers or upgrade their hardware unless there are specific capacity or performance constraints.
Current Array Feasibility:
Assuming the existing //X90R3 array has sufficient capacity and performance headroom, it can handle the additional workload without requiring upgrades.
Why Not the Other Options?
A. The customer should migrate their Windows file servers to Pure:
While migrating file servers to Pure Storage can provide benefits like simplified management and improved performance, it is not a requirement. The customer can continue using their existing file servers while leveraging FlashArray for block storage.
B. The customer needs to upgrade to XL to be able to use FA File:
Upgrading to a higher-end model like FlashArray//XL is unnecessary unless the current array lacks the required capacity or performance for the additional workload. The //X90R3 is fully capable of supporting FA File Services.
Key Points:
Versatility:FlashArray can support both block and file workloads simultaneously.
No Immediate Upgrades Needed:The current array can likely handle the additional workload without requiring hardware changes.
Workload Consolidation:Using a single platform for multiple workloads simplifies infrastructure and reduces costs.
References:
Pure Storage FlashArray Documentation: "FA File Services Overview"
Pure Storage Whitepaper: "Consolidating Workloads on FlashArray"
Pure Storage Knowledge Base: "Supporting Multiple Workloads with FlashArray"
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