IBM Block Storage-as-a-Service for DS8000

IBM Block Storage as a Service for IBM DS8000 delivers flexible storage based on capacity

IBM Block Storage as a Service (STaaS) provides clients with a flexible storage system that is priced based on the actual capacity as it is consumed over time. Ordering Block STaaS is straightforward and includes IBM lifecycle management services through the life of the term.

As clients continue to move to a hybrid cloud environment, managing capacity growth can become a challenge. Block STaaS assures that clients can have the capacity they require without having to over-purchase hardware. With a committed amount of base capacity purchased on an annual basis, coupled with variable consumption above that base capacity, clients have access to a nearly unlimited amount of space for the duration of the contract. Contract terms from 3 to 5 years are available, with the option to extend at the end of the term.

Three performance service-level objectives (SLOs) are available and are based on an IO/s, per terabyte basis. STaaS offerings come with data encryption support. Clients should analyze their workload requirements and determine which SLO they require. They should also determine which style of power distribution unit (PDU) cable is required and their expected growth rate. All these parameters will help the company determine the appropriate system to ship to meet the client’s needs.

Key requirements
Capacity must be included with the base commitment features with the following starting capacity thresholds:

• 25TB for Extreme tier models ETx and DEx
• 30TB for Premium tier models DTx and DSx
• 60TB for Balance tier models DBx and DVx

The following are billing models for variable capacity in the StaaS model:

• Extreme tier DEx models
• Premium tier DSx models
• Balance tier DVx models

The corresponding base capacity model is a prerequisite for variable consumption per the following table:

Planned availability date: March 31, 2023