Skip to main content
Home Converged infrastructure

Converged infrastructure

(also converged architecture, CI, converged system)

Converged infrastructure definition

Converged infrastructure is a comprehensive approach to data center architecture that combines computing, storage, networking, and sometimes virtualization resources into a single pre-configured IT solution.

See also: data center design, unified computing system

Advantages of converged infrastructure

  • Converged infrastructure components are pre-tested to work seamlessly together, saving organizations resources that would have to be spent on research, procurement, setup, and testing.
  • The management of various converged infrastructure components is unified through a single management interface, simplifying administrative tasks and reducing the learning curve for the organization’s IT staff.
  • Converged infrastructure is easily scalable — when additional resources are needed, new converged modules can be added to the existing infrastructure. This lets organizations to incrementally expand their capacity without needing to overhaul the system.
  • Converged infrastructure solutions often incorporate features for optimization and automation, such as virtualization, resource pooling, and load balancing.

Common converged infrastructure components

  • Compute nodes: Servers or computing resources where applications run, often designed to be highly scalable.
  • Storage devices: This can include traditional storage arrays, network-attached storage, and storage area network components. Storage resources are usually pooled and managed centrally for additional efficiency.
  • Networking equipment: Components like switches, routers, and network interfaces that provide connectivity between the different parts of the converged infrastructure, often finely tuned to handle the demands of the pre-packaged environment.
  • Management software: A unified management platform to monitor the components of the converged infrastructure.
  • Backup and disaster recovery solutions: Devices that protect or restore data in the event of catastrophic failure.
  • Security features: Components like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption mechanisms to protect data within the converged infrastructure.