SSD caching can be implemented with an external storage array, a server, an appliance or a portable computing device, such as a desktop or laptop computer.
Storage array vendors often use NAND flash-based caching to augment faster and more expensive DRAM- or NVRAM-based caches. SSD caching is secondary to the higher-performance caching mechanisms and can boost access to less frequently accessed data.
Dedicated flash cache appliances are designed to add caching capabilities to existing storage systems. When inserted between an application and a storage system, flash cache appliances use built-in logic to determine which data should be placed in its SSDs. When a data request is received, the flash cache appliance can fulfill it if the data resides on its SSDs. Physical and software-based virtual appliances can cache data at a local data center or within the cloud.
For portable computing devices, Intel offers Smart Response Technology to store the most frequently used data and applications in an SSD cache. The SSD cache can be part of a solid-state hybrid drive or a separate drive used with a lower-cost, higher-capacity HDD. The Intel technology is designed to distinguish high-value data, such as application, user and boot data, from low-value data associated with background tasks.
Thank you!
