Do compute nodes in a NetApp HCI appliance chassis require SSDs?

In a NetApp HCI appliance chassis, compute nodes do not require SSDs because their primary function is to provide the compute power necessary for running applications, not to store data. The storage aspect is handled by storage nodes, which manage the disks, including SSDs and HDDs, to provide optimal data performance and redundancy.

While SSDs can enhance performance in some configurations, the compute nodes themselves can operate effectively without them. This design allows for flexibility in choosing the right balance of performance and cost, as you can tailor the storage architecture to meet specific workload demands without being tied to including SSDs in every compute node.

Having this knowledge is crucial for efficiently planning and deploying NetApp HCI solutions based on specific application needs and performance requirements. This aspect is important to understand when considering the overall HCI architecture and its components.