repository uses less disk space than a full physical copy, because the only data blocks that are stored in the snapshot repository virtual disk are those that have changed since the time of the snapshot.

When you create a snapshot virtual disk, specify its location, capacity, schedule, and other parameters. You can disable or delete the snapshot virtual disk when it is not required. If you disable a snapshot virtual disk, you can re- create and reuse it the next time you perform a backup. For more information, see "Re-creating Snapshot Virtual Disks" on page 164. If you delete a snapshot virtual disk, you also delete the associated snapshot repository virtual disk.

NOTE: Deleting a snapshot does not affect data on the source virtual disk.

NOTE: The following host preparation sections also apply when using the snapshot feature through the CLI interface.

Scheduling a Snapshot Virtual Disk

When you create a snapshot virtual disk, you can choose whether the snapshot is created immediately or is created according to a schedule that you determine. This schedule can be a one-time snapshot creation or an ongoing snapshot creation that occurs at regularly occurring intervals. If a schedule is not specified, the snapshot virtual disk creation happens immediately upon execution of the command.

A schedule can be specified when a snapshot virtual disk is first created, or it can be added to an existing snapshot virtual disk at any time. One schedule per snapshot virtual disk is supported.

Common Reasons for Scheduling a Snapshot Virtual Disk

Scheduling a snapshot virtual disk can serve multiple purposes across a data storage environment. Most common uses of a snapshot scheduler are:

•Data backups

•Rapid recovery from a data loss event

A scheduled data backup can protect against data loss on a regular, unmonitored basis. For example, if an application stores business-critical data on two virtual disks in the storage array, you may choose to perform an automatic backup every day. To implement this backup, select the first virtual disk and create a backup schedule that runs once a day, Monday through

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MD3620F, MD3600f specifications

Dell's MD3620F and MD3600F storage arrays are designed for businesses seeking dependable, high-performance storage solutions tailored to meet the demands of modern data management. These models offer a blend of scalability, efficiency, and advanced features, making them well-suited for a range of applications, from virtual environments to critical database operations.

One of the primary features of the MD3620F and MD3600F is their support for a hybrid storage architecture. This approach allows organizations to combine flash storage with traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) to optimize performance and cost. The MD3620F focuses heavily on all-flash configurations, delivering exceptional speed and lower latency, ideal for I/O-intensive workloads.

Scalability is another hallmark of these storage solutions. The MD3600F allows users to scale up to 120 drives, providing robust capacity to meet growing data needs. The MD3620F is engineered for environments where data availability and speed are paramount, with support for high IOPS (Input/Output Operations Per Second) and consistent performance under stress.

In terms of data management, both systems integrate with Dell’s proprietary software, which enhances operational efficiency through features like automated tiering. This technology optimizes data placement between different storage types based on access frequency, ensuring that hot data is readily available while reducing costs associated with less critical data.

Reliability is crucial for businesses that depend on their storage systems. The MD3620F and MD3600F come equipped with advanced data protection mechanisms, such as RAID support, which safeguards against data loss, and snapshot capabilities that provide point-in-time copies of data. Moreover, these solutions include hot-swappable components, ensuring minimal downtime for maintenance and repairs.

Connectivity is also a strong suit of these storage arrays. They support multiple connectivity options, including SAS and iSCSI, allowing for flexible integration into existing IT infrastructures. This adaptability enhances their appeal to a wide range of enterprise environments.

In summary, the Dell MD3620F and MD3600F stand out as robust storage solutions with a combination of hybrid and all-flash configurations, scalability, advanced data management tools, and enhanced reliability features. These characteristics make them ideal for organizations looking to enhance their data storage capabilities while maintaining high performance and efficiency.
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