Cloud Native Storage and Databases

Cloud native storage is built for containers and dynamic environments. It aims to provide durable, scalable storage that can be provisioned on demand and survive pod restarts. In Kubernetes, you interact with PersistentVolumes, StorageClasses, and CSI drivers to attach storage to apps. For databases, storage is not just capacity; it is the backbone of durability and performance.

Different storage types fit different needs. Block storage is fast and predictable, often used for data files and logs. File storage supports shared access, which is handy for certain workloads. Object storage scales cheaply for backups and archives. When you run databases in a cloud-native setup, you want strong durability, snapshots, and fast recovery. Look for features like cross‑zone replication, encryption, and access controls.

Patterns matter. StatefulSets and operators help manage the lifecycle of stateful services, including data placement, upgrades, and failover. If you lean toward managed services, you can connect your apps to a cloud database while the storage layer remains in the provider’s domain. This can simplify operations, but it adds a cloud dependency and potential data egress considerations.

Key considerations include data locality and latency, durability, and observability. Plan where data lives relative to compute, ensure automatic backups and point‑in‑time restores, and monitor performance, latency, and errors. Use snapshots for quick recovery and test disaster scenarios regularly.

Two common paths exist: run a distributed database on Kubernetes with an operator, or rely on a managed database service while using cloud storage for backups and archives. Both approaches benefit from clear recovery goals and a solid storage strategy that fits your workload profile.

Key Takeaways

  • Cloud-native storage pairs with Kubernetes to provide durable, scalable storage for stateful apps and databases.
  • Choose storage types and features (replication, snapshots, encryption) based on latency, durability, and cost.
  • Plan for backups, disaster recovery, and data locality to keep data safe across failures and multi‑zone events.