Connecting via iSCSI
iSCSI (Internet Small Computer Systems Interface) is a protocol that provides block-level access to remote data storage over IP networks, making the storage function like a local virtual disk.
When using iSCSI, the remote storage appears in the operating system as a block device, similar to a physical disk. This means data is handled as a continuous set of blocks rather than individual files and folders. This setup allows the system to manage data independently by creating file systems and partitions just as it would on a local disk. Direct access to blocks ensures high-speed operations and flexibility, making it easy to integrate the storage into your infrastructure and adapt it for various tasks such as working with databases or virtual machines.
Advantages of iSCSI
- High performance due to direct block-level access.
- Wide integration possibilities with operating systems via built-in initiators.
- High reliability and load balancing thanks to support for persistent connections and multipath I/O.
- Enhanced connection security through authentication (for example, CHAP).
- Ability to create virtual disks for the required file systems.
Limitations of iSCSI
- Only one IP address can be added to the list of trusted IP addresses for an iSCSI connection.
- The setup process can be more complex compared to other protocols.
- Data is not encrypted by default, which can risk leaking confidential information without additional protection measures.
- Performance is heavily dependent on the quality of the network infrastructure.
Usage Recommendations
- Suitable for high-load tasks that require fast block-level access, such as working with databases, virtual machines, and other critical applications.
- Optimize your network infrastructure to ensure stability and high throughput for optimal iSCSI performance.
- Avoid using iSCSI in insecure networks without additional security measures, and do not use it to store confidential information without extra encryption.