Traditionally virtualized environments have been built on a three-tier architecture consisting of x86 servers, a redundant storage fabric, and an enterprise grade shared storage platform, like a Dell EMC PowerStore T, for example. IT, the applications they deliver, and the environment they run on, are critical to business operations today.
These separate tiers can have their own refresh cycles, be it driven by advancements in product technology, budget cycles, or outgrowing part of the original environment. Regardless the cause, the architecture provides an opportunity for to revisit and improve upon the existing environment in multiple way. Servers have a shorter refresh cycle; typically three years versus five years for storage arrays.