What does the VPLEX "stretch cluster" architecture enable?

The concept of "stretch cluster" architecture in VPLEX is specifically designed to allow for the integration of storage arrays across multiple data centers. This architecture provides an ability to create a unified storage solution that spans geographically separated sites, enabling seamless data availability and high availability configurations.

By utilizing stretch clusters, VPLEX allows organizations to maintain continuous access to data even in the case of a site failure. The architecture ensures that virtual volumes can be presented from storage located in different locations, thereby enhancing data management and improving disaster recovery processes. This capability is crucial for enterprises that require consistent access to critical applications and data across different locations, promoting operational efficiency and resilience amid security threats or hardware failures.

In contrast, the other options suggest functionalities that are not directly aligned with the core purpose of VPLEX stretch clusters. While backup solutions, increased data transfer speeds, and cloud storage deployments are important aspects of data management, they are not the primary focus of the stretch cluster architecture, which is fundamentally about creating a coherent and resilient environment for storage across multiple sites.