Which term best describes a method of data storage that avoids reliance on local physical disks?

The term that best describes a method of data storage that avoids reliance on local physical disks is Cloud Storage Solutions. Cloud storage allows users to store data on remote servers that are accessed over the internet, meaning that the data is not tied to any single physical device or local infrastructure. This method provides several advantages such as scalability, reliability, and accessibility from multiple locations or devices, as users can access their data from any internet-enabled device without needing to rely on local storage.

In contrast, while remote data backup may involve storing data away from local devices, it primarily refers to the process of copying and archiving data for recovery purposes rather than regular, everyday storage solutions. A virtual file system generally refers to an abstraction layer that allows users to interact with files without considering the underlying storage mechanisms, but it doesn’t inherently signify avoidance of local storage. Decentralized storage, while avoiding reliance on a single point of failure, often still entails some local storage components in its design. Therefore, cloud storage solutions most accurately encapsulate the idea of using remote servers instead of local physical disks for storage needs.