What characterizes Direct Attached Storage (DAS)?

Direct Attached Storage (DAS) is characterized by its direct connection to a computing device, such as a server or computer, without the need for a network. This form of storage is often used for scenarios where high-speed access and low latency are required because the storage is physically attached to the device accessing it.

DAS is commonly utilized in small-scale environments or for specific applications where simplicity and performance are paramount. Typical examples include external hard drives connected via USB or internal drives mounted within a server. This setup allows for quick access to data without the complexity of networking protocols or shared file systems.

The other choices present features or configurations associated with other storage types; for instance, networked storage solutions like NAS (Network Attached Storage) utilize networking to enable multiple users to access and share files across different devices. Similarly, the use of DAS isn't limited to virtualized environments, as its applications span various domains, including personal computing and small office environments. Thus, the defining characteristic of DAS is its direct connection, which enhances performance for dedicated workloads.