Storage virtualization blends physical storage devices into what appears to be a single pool of data. It does this by aggregating the storage capacity from various devices and presents it as one entity to the server, thereby eliminating redundant hardware and making storage more efficient in terms of cost.
A VDR (virtual data room) can be used to simplify due diligence processes and raise funds from investors by allowing multiple parties to collaborate in a secure environment. VDRs can also provide a selection of tools that simplify project management and facilitate the collaboration process. However they can be costly and do not have the advanced features that are included in cloud storage solutions.
Cloud storage services allow users to save and retrieve data remotely through browsers, which decreases the need for expensive hardware redundancies. It does, however, require a confidence that your company’s data is kept safe by a third-party.
Block storage virtualization, which is a software program creates a barrier that separates the physical disk drives from the operating system. This allows the drives to be accessed much faster than if the data was read directly from the drive. It also eliminates the requirement for an additional hardware platform such as RAID to manage storage devices and simplifies the storage architecture.
File virtualization focuses primarily on NAS storage architecture. This enables companies to optimize their storage use by consolidating servers, as well as make non-disruptive changes to files. It accomplishes this by removing the dependence on physical directories and file systems and offering advanced functions such as caching, tiering, and replication on the storage virtualization level.
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