> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.serverlessapigateway.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.serverlessapigateway.com/glossary/s/storage.md). # Storage Storage refers to the technologies and systems used to retain digital data for later retrieval. In cloud computing, storage services are categorized by their access patterns and data models: block storage (raw volumes attached to virtual machines), file storage (hierarchical file systems accessible over a network), and object storage (flat namespaces of key-addressable data objects). Cloud storage services include Amazon S3 and Cloudflare R2 for object storage, Amazon EBS and Azure Managed Disks for block storage, and Amazon EFS and Google Filestore for file storage. Databases (both relational and NoSQL) provide another form of structured data storage with query capabilities. In API and serverless architectures, storage choice affects application design, performance, and cost. Serverless functions typically interact with managed storage services through APIs rather than local file systems. API gateways may use key-value storage (like Cloudflare KV) for caching responses, storing configuration data, or maintaining rate limit counters. Object storage is commonly used for file uploads, static assets, and log archives accessible through API endpoints. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.serverlessapigateway.com/glossary/s/storage.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.