A2 Object Storage
Object Storage
Object storage is a type of data storage architecture that stores data as discrete objects, each with a unique
identifier, rather than using a hierarchical file system like traditional file storage. Each object in object storage
can contain data of any size or format, such as documents, images, videos, or other unstructured data. Object storage is
highly scalable, durable, and accessible over the network, making it suitable for storing large amounts of data in a
distributed and cost-effective manner.
Object storage typically uses a simple interface, such as Representational State Transfer (REST) or Simple Storage
Service (S3) API, for accessing and managing objects. Objects are stored in a flat address space, often referred to as a
"bucket," and are identified using a unique object key or URL. Object storage can be used for a wide range of use cases,
such as backup and restore, data archiving, content delivery, big data analytics, and cloud-based applications.
Some key features of object storage include:
- Scalability: Object storage is designed to scale horizontally and can handle a virtually unlimited amount of data.
As data grows, more storage capacity can be added seamlessly without disrupting access to existing objects.
- Durability: Object storage is designed for high data durability, with multiple copies of objects stored across
multiple locations or nodes, ensuring data integrity and protection against hardware failures or data corruption.
- Accessibility: Objects in object storage can be accessed over the network using standard APIs, making them easily
accessible from anywhere, at any time, using different devices or platforms.
- Metadata and Custom Metadata: Object storage allows for associating metadata, which are key-value pairs, with
objects. This metadata can be used for indexing, searching, and managing objects. Custom metadata can also be used
to store application-specific information with objects.
- Data Lifecycle Management: Object storage often provides features for data lifecycle management, such as automated
data retention policies, versioning, and expiration policies, allowing for efficient data management and compliance
with data retention requirements.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Object storage is typically designed with a cost-effective approach, as it uses commodity
hardware and can be easily scaled, making it suitable for storing large amounts of data economically.
Object storage has gained popularity in modern data storage architectures due to its scalability, durability,
accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. It is commonly used in cloud storage services, data backup and archiving
solutions, and big data analytics platforms, among others, to efficiently manage and store large volumes of unstructured
data.
- YOUR_TENANT_ID is needed to use the URL to view and access the Object Storge in a
browser, https://a2-west.usacld.net/aca2storage7903:acbucket01.
Create Object Storage
1. Login to the Web Portal with a valid American Cloud account
2. On the left navigation column choose 'Object Storage'
3. On the Object Storage screen choose 'Create A2 Storage Unit'
4. Fill out the provided creation form which allows for full customization of A2 Object Storage. The following fields
are available:
Location
This field provides the ability to choose which geographic region the instance will reside.
Select Project
Select the project which to build Object Storage
Object Storage Name
Naming convention follows A2 protocol. Give a custom name to the Storage Plan. Keep in mind if running multiple plans a
standard naming resolution is recommended for easy tracking
Select Volume Size
American Cloud offers a standard 1000 buckets. However, size volume is based off needs of the customer. Standard sizes
are 250GB, 500GB, 1TB, 1.5TB, 2TB, 2.5TB, and 5TB. Select the desired size based off needs
Billing Method
For object storage monthly billing only is available. Select any coupons to redeem. Review summarized price
1. Select 'Create Object Storage'
Create Bucket
Object storage buckets are logical containers or directories used to organize and store objects in an object storage
system. Similar to a folder in a traditional file system, a bucket acts as a top-level container that holds objects,
which are individual data entities such as files, images, videos, or other unstructured data.
To create a bucket within American Cloud's CMP follow the steps below:
1. Login to the Web Portal with a valid American Cloud account
2. On the left navigation column choose 'Object Storage'
3. Select the object storage plan to create the bucket within
4. Select 'Create Bucket'
5. Enter the unique bucket name
Bucket Name
Provide a unique name for the bucket
Create Bucket
- The bucket will now be created
Object Storage Management
1. Login to the Web Portal with a valid American Cloud account
2. On the left navigation column choose 'Object Storage'
3. Select the Object Storage Profile to manage and select '#name'.
4. Within the profile select 'Settings'
Settings
A list of settings will be available. Storage, change plan, and keys
Storage
This section provides a detailed explanation of resources used and remaining
Change Plan
In the event more space is required. American Cloud provides the ability to change the plan. If upgrade is neccessary
select the required memory in the drop down.
Note
Downgrading is currently not supported. Shrinking the hard disk is not possible without risking data loss.
Keys
In order to connect via s3cmd the access and secrect are required. In this section we can copy, reveal, or regenerate
the keys.
For more information on s3cmd, Click Here.
Upload files
1. Login to the Web Portal with a valid American Cloud account
2. On the left navigation column choose 'Object Storage'
3. In 'A2 Storage Unit' select the desired Object Storage to manage
4. Select the desired bucket to upload to
5. On the following page select 'upload'
Upload
Once selected a popup will present for selection of the file to uploaded. Select file and open. The file will be added
to the desired bucket.
For further explanation on using s3cmd to upload files, Click Here.
Managing Files
1. Login to the Web Portal with a valid American Cloud account
2. On the left navigation column choose 'Object Storage'
3. On the A2 Object Units select the Storage to manage
4. Select the bucket to manage
Select Action Pane
Within the Action Pane, on the far right, are several options per file. Permissions, Download, Rename, Delete, Unsigned
URL, and Pre-Signed URL
Permission
Select between private read or public read for extra security on files
Download
Quickly download a file from the American Cloud CMP to the local machine
Rename
Manage naming conventions by naming files for fast and easy identification
Delete
Quickly and easily remove unwanted files from a bucket
Unsigned URL
Pre-signed URL
