What is a well-recognized benefit of using flash storage?

The benefit of using flash storage that stands out is the increased I/O performance. Flash storage utilizes NAND memory, which allows for much faster read and write speeds compared to traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). This speed is crucial for applications that require quick data processing and access, particularly in environments where high transactional workloads and real-time data analytics are prevalent.

With its superior I/O performance, flash storage can handle multiple input/output operations per second (IOPS), significantly improving the responsiveness of databases, virtual machines, and overall applications. This increased performance enables organizations to maintain higher productivity levels and meet stringent performance SLAs (Service Level Agreements). In addition, applications running on flash storage can lead to lower latency in data retrieval, further enhancing user experiences and operational efficiencies.

In contrast, options like higher latency, lower throughput, and reduced capacity do not reflect the strengths of flash storage and are not considered benefits. Higher latency and lower throughput undermine the speed advantages that flash provides, while reduced capacity is typically a trade-off when opting for flash over traditional storage methods, as some flash solutions may offer less storage space for a higher cost.