What is our primary use case?
My use case for using Pure FlashArray X NVMe is that my company is developing a blockchain platform for Ethereum or Bitcoin, and we are running four copies of the same node, each of which has to use isolated storage. They have exactly the same data, and we are using Pure Storage as our storage device, where most of our blockchain nodes have their unique volume, a different volume in Pure Storage. Pure Storage supports snapshots, and every four nodes have exactly the same data. By using Pure Storage, we can save physical storage.
What is most valuable?
The best features of Pure FlashArray X NVMe include the volume snapshot capabilities, which allow us to save most of the storage space by volume snapshots periodically. We are actively using the volume snapshot and create volume snapshots periodically, once a month for four months.
What needs improvement?
I have no specific improvements to suggest for Pure FlashArray X NVMe at this time.
The performance statistics could be enhanced. I can see the performance statistics in the Pure Storage console, but it does not show the performance by 4K byte unit. It displays IOPS and bandwidth, but IOPS is about real use, and I want to know how many IOPS are currently running in 4K byte units. I cannot see that IOPS because most storage systems report their performance by 4K byte unit. I want to see Pure Storage performance by 4K byte unit to compare with other storage or other internal NVMe SSD.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have approximately two years of experience working with Pure FlashArray X NVMe, using Pure Storage X19, 1953.
What was my experience with deployment of the solution?
We use the Evergreen architecture for non-disruptive upgrades. We attempted an upgrade last month, and there was a significant incident where the storage failed for about 10 hours, causing several of our services to stop. I appreciate the non-disruptive upgrade feature, but it is not perfect.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
It is a very stable solution. I have not experienced any errors in usual cases, except for the accident during the upgrade process.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
Pure FlashArray X NVMe is a scalable solution, and I agree with that assessment.
How are customer service and support?
I would rate technical support from Pure Storage a nine on a scale from 1 to 10, where 10 is perfect.
How would you rate customer service and support?
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
Before Pure FlashArray X NVMe, I did not use a different solution; it was my first experience. Currently, I am trying to use other storage devices, such as IBM and NetApp, as we are running a Proof of Concept.
What about the implementation team?
The partner company for Pure Storage installed and set up the solution. I do not have experience in installation or setup of the storage system.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
The price of Pure FlashArray X NVMe is very expensive, though I do not know the actual price because I am using the Evergreen monthly payment. I do not know the exact device price, but I think the monthly price is not so expensive. However, I believe the physical device price is very expensive, based on what I have heard.
Which other solutions did I evaluate?
Currently, I am trying to use other storage devices, such as IBM and NetApp, as we are running a Proof of Concept.
What other advice do I have?
I have experience working with Pure Storage array solutions and have a customer relationship with Pure as an end-user. I have not utilized the AI-driven management features. I have downloaded some articles about the storage.
On a scale of 1-10, I rate Pure FlashArray X NVMe a 10.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
On-premises