TopicActive Directory →
Simple definition
A storage allowance where physical space is consumed gradually instead of being reserved immediately.
Technical definition
A thin disk has maximum logical capacity to VM but actually occupies only the space written on the underlying storage.
What is it used for ?
Optimize storage use when all VMs do not use their maximum capacity.
Practical example
A 500 GB virtual disk can occupy only 80 GB as long as only 80 GB of data is written.
Common issues
- On allowance from datastore
- Simultaneous growth of several VMs
- Lack of capacity monitoring
Related terms
Key takeaway: This entry explains the general operation of the term. Exact settings may vary depending on software, vendors and environments.