Which feature is associated with virtualized storage resources in HCI?

The correct response highlights the capability of hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI) to create shared storage or a Storage Area Network (SAN) as a fundamental characteristic of its design. In HCI environments, storage resources are virtualized and integrated with compute resources, allowing for a more efficient and flexible use of storage.

This integration means that storage is not just limited to a dedicated device or physical appliance but can be distributed across multiple nodes within the HCI system. As a result, it allows multiple servers (or nodes) to access the same pool of storage seamlessly, enhancing performance and scalability. This is particularly beneficial in modern data centers where the demand for quick access to data and rapid changes in workloads occur frequently.

The other choices do not accurately reflect features associated with virtualized storage in HCI. Manual provisioning of storage suggests a lack of automation and dynamic resource allocation that are hallmarks of HCI. Limiting data redundancy contradicts the principle of ensuring data integrity and availability in a virtualized environment, where redundancy is often a key feature to prevent data loss. Lastly, the notion that HCI only supports on-premises storage fails to recognize the potential for hybrid models that extend into cloud environments.