What is data storage?

This episode of Techsplainers introduces data storage and explains why it is one of the foundational parts of modern computing. The episode explores how storage records, organizes and protects digital information so it can be retrieved and used later, whether that data lives on a personal device, in a data center or across cloud environments. It follows storage from everyday use cases like apps, photos and media to enterprise needs such as archiving, backup and disaster recovery. Listeners are guided through how data storage works, including the difference between RAM and long-term storage, and the three major storage models: file storage, block storage and object storage. The discussion also breaks down core architectures such as DAS, NAS and SAN, along with common storage media and deployment options including HDDs, SSDs, cloud storage, hybrid cloud storage, AI storage and edge storage. It also highlights the benefits of scalability, flexibility and resilience, while addressing challenges tied to security, compliance, cost and growing data demands. Find more information at https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/data-storage Find more episodes at https://www.ibm.com/think/podcasts/techsplainers. Narrated by Dan Segal "AI tools may be used to transcribe this episode and support selected stages of the production process. All AI-assisted content is reviewed by the production team before publication."