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.
