Dell aims to simplify de-duplication
Dell has announced its intention to develop de-duplication technology and to partner with EMC and Quantum to achieve this.
On Monday, the company talked about developing a way to get its own storage arrays, including PowerVault and EqualLogic, as well as third-part arrays from one of its major storage partners, EMC, to work together. Part of this will be based on technology from de-duplication specialist Quantum.
According to the announcement, the aim is to provide "a single de-duplication architecture" across the three different product families, and Dell will "deliver the compatibility customers require to simply replicate and de-duplicate data across multiple sites"; for example, from departments or branch offices to the datacentre.
De-duplication has become essential for many companies as they try to manage the explosion in data caused by the increased demand for rich media, such as web-based pictures and video. Much of this data could be stored in two, three, four or more places. De-duplication technology removes surplus copies of data by placing them in long-term storage, such as tape drives, as they become non-essential.
According to Darren Thomas, vice president of Dell's storage business, his company is "going to do de-dupe differently". This is necessary, he said, because, "storage has been too complicated for too long".
The intention behind the Dell initiative, Thomas said, is to provide a single architecture that would work with Dell's entire portfolio, as well as those of its rivals.
Dell did not give any details regarding exactly how the company was going to simplify de-duplication, other than to stress it would make its own two storage architectures, PowerVault and EqualLogic, work harmoniously together.
In its statement, Dell said it would also offer a range of services "to help customers assess, design and implement a comprehensive de-duplication solution". The services will include a data-management consulting assessment, the company said.