Unified Storage is a single, integrated storage infrastructure that functions as unification engines to simultaneously support Fibre Channel, IP Storage Area Networks (SAN) and Network Attached Storage (NAS) data formats.

A unified storage system simultaneously enables storage of file data and handles the block-based I/O (input/output) of enterprise applications. In actual practice, unified storage is often implemented in a NAS platform that is modified to add block-mode support.

One advantage of unified storage is reduced hardware requirements. Instead of separate storage platforms, like NAS for file-based storage and a RAID disk array for block-based storage, unified storage combines both modes in a single device. Alternatively, a single device could be deployed for either file or block storage as required.

In addition to lower capital expenditures for the enterprise, unified storage systems can also be simpler to manage than separate products. However, the actual management overhead depends on the full complement of features and functionality provided in the platform. Furthermore, unified storage often limits the level of control in file-based versus block-based I/O, potentially leading to reduced or variable storage performance. For these reasons, mission-critical applications should continue to be deployed on block-based storage systems.

Unified storage systems generally cost the same and enjoy the same level of reliability as dedicated file or block storage systems. Users can also benefit from advanced features such as storage snapshots and replication. And some of our solutions include ILM and data de-duped transmission to the remote site for WAN efficiencies. Encryption can also be applied.

NavigateStorage partners with several companies that provide this functionality at various price points. One great example is IceWEB. Please request more information below and we will contact you to discuss your needs. Or just give us a call at 978-318-9000