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Blob storage vs block storage from System Design Perspective?

What aspects from Design perspective will change if we are designing a Block storage vs a Blob Storage ? I understand the different in these two storage types, but would like to know what key implications it has on the design if we change from Blob to Block ?

Hi Dilpreet,

Transitioning from Blob storage to Block storage entails several key implications on the design:

  1. Data Organization: Blob storage handles unstructured data with variable sizes, while Block storage manages structured data divided into fixed-sized blocks. This shift affects data management and access methods.
  2. Metadata Management: Blob storage relies on metadata for managing large files split into smaller chunks, whereas Block storage focuses on tracking individual blocks and their locations.
  3. Partitioning Strategies: Blob storage often partitions based on blob IDs or paths, while Block storage may partition blocks across nodes or disks considering load balancing and fault tolerance.
  4. Indexing and Search: Blob storage uses indexing for efficient retrieval of blobs based on attributes, whereas Block storage may require indexing for quick access to specific blocks or associated metadata.
  5. Replication Strategies: Replication, garbage collection, streaming, and caching mechanisms need adaptation to suit Block storage requirements, considering factors like data integrity and performance optimizations at the block level.

Transitioning requires a comprehensive reassessment to accommodate differences in data structure, access patterns, and management needs.

Thank you.