CompTIA Cloud+ Practice Test

Which type of storage system is directly attached to a computer and does not use a storage network?

1. NAS

2. SAN

3. DAS

4. Network share

The correct answer is: DAS

The type of storage system that is directly attached to a computer and does not utilize a storage network is Direct Attached Storage (DAS). DAS refers to various storage devices that are connected directly to a single computer, such as external hard drives, USB drives, and internal hard drives within the computer's casing. This setup allows for fast access and high performance since the storage is directly interfaced with the computer’s processor. DAS does not require a network to operate, distinguishing it from Network Attached Storage (NAS) and Storage Area Networks (SAN), which involve network configurations to allow multiple computers to access the same storage resources. When comparing DAS to NAS and SAN, NAS involves a storage device that connects to a network, enabling multiple users or systems to access the data remotely. SAN, on the other hand, is a high-speed network that provides access to consolidated block-level storage, typically used in larger environments needing virtualization and high availability. Network shares facilitate file sharing over a network but still require a network infrastructure, unlike DAS, which operates independently of such configurations. Thus, Direct Attached Storage is specifically characterized by its direct connection to a host computer without the need for intermediary networking elements.