# Utilize external storage

> This guide covers how to utilize external storage in CubeCOS, including attaching volumes, verifying connections, and troubleshooting multipath storage across FC, iSCSI, and NFS.

## Deployment & Usage {#deployment--usage}

Once integrated, the external storage can be utilized in these areas:

### Image Import {#image-import}

This allows you to store your virtual machine (VM) base images directly on high-performance external storage. Using external storage for images speeds up the VM deployment process and reduces the load on local compute nodes.

Follow the steps below to import an image from your external storage:

1. Go to **OpenStack Skyline**. (The OpenStack icon is located in the top-right corner.)

  

2. Navigate to **Compute** > **Image** > **Create Image** to create a new image.

  

3. You can select the external storage you added in the previous step at **Destination**.

  

### Volume Creation {#volume-creation}

This creates virtual disks (volumes) that provide ample space for your applications. Selecting the integrated external storage as the volume type ensures that your data resides on enterprise-grade hardware with professional redundancy and backup capabilities.

Follow the steps below to create a volume with your external storage:

1. Go to **OpenStack Skyline**. (The OpenStack icon is located in the top-right corner.)

  

2. Navigate to **Storage** > **Volumes** > **Create Volume** to create a new volume.

  

3. You can select the external storage you added in the previous step at **Volume Type**.