Storage Area Networks

In order to provide high-speed, continuous access to multiple terabytes of data, a networking technology has emerged that is designed to overcome throughput and data-sharing issues common in existing data networks. Known as storage area networks (SAN), SANs incorporate a dedicated Fibre Channel (FC) network that connects one or more servers to storage devices. In more elaborate configurations, this dedicated network can also include switches, hubs, bridges and storage subsystems.

SANs provide a "behind the scenes" network that carries data-storage traffic, allowing traditional LANs to provide TCP/IP functionality. Separating these networks eliminates speed and bandwidth issues for both users and administrators.

Hierarchal Storage Management

HSM is a high-performance, centralized file-management solution which allows native file systems on the server to appear virtually limitless in size. HSM uses a predefined set of rules to balance online disk capacity with magnetic tape or optical disk storage, so that all files appear online to users. Consequently, users and system applications have immediate access to information without the expense of keeping all files on disk at all times. If an archived file is requested, the data-archiving solution retrieves the migrated data without any user intervention.

Server Clustering

For the highest level of system availability clustering solutions can automatically transfer entire applications and users to standby systems in the event of server failure. A cluster is a parallel or distributed collection of interconnected servers used as a single, unified server. Each separate server in the cluster may also be known as a node. Redundant nodes are active, often running different applications. They provide static load balancing. If one node fails, the apllication or resource fails over to another node in the cluster to ensure little or no interuption in service for users.

Data Replication

Data replication is an automated method for distributing synchronous data. This can be done locally, or across geographically dispersed locations. Data replication provides a high level of security, and allows for application design, software upgrades and disaster-recovery testing without impact on production systems. It can also be used to develop a "hot site" that companies can transfer users and customers to in the event of a loss of data access at a primary storage facility. Data replication can even be used to transfer data from remote locations to the primary data center for backup and recovery.