Software-defined storage (SDS) has transformed data management, allowing organizations to separate storage management from the physical hardware utilized. This innovation provides flexibility and efficiency, enabling better resource allocation and utilization.
1. DataCore
DataCore features two main SDS solutions. The first, SANsymphony, enhances block storage performance through technologies like parallel I/O and high-speed caching, with options for high availability and remote site replication. The second product, Swarm, focuses on software-defined object storage, creating a self-managing architecture from x86 servers equipped with HDD or SSD. Users can manage this setup via a single web console, accessing data through S3 and HTTPS protocols.
2. Dell Technologies
Dell Technologies stands out with a diverse SDS portfolio, offering at least five unique products tailored for various needs. Many of these solutions are designed for VMware environments. VxRail serves as a hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI) platform, while UnityVSA acts as a software alternative to Dell’s Unity hardware. Additionally, Unity Cloud Edition allows deployment in public clouds. IsilonSD Edge and ECS provide scalable software-defined NAS and object storage solutions respectively.
3. Microsoft
Microsoft’s Storage Spaces Direct, integrated into Windows Server, provides an alternative to high-cost storage appliances. By linking multiple Windows Servers, it allows pooling of local storage, creating a high-performance storage system that scales efficiently and offers resilience.
4. NetApp
NetApp’s OnTap software delivers SDS capabilities by managing on-premises and cloud storage through a unified platform. It supports both NetApp hardware and commodity storage, allowing for flexible scaling based on varying requirements. Security features include multi-admin approval for changes and machine learning-driven ransomware defenses. Automation tools like NetApp Active IQ monitor and optimize storage health.
5. Nutanix
Nutanix offers Unified Storage that consolidates data management for file, block, and object storage within on-premises and multi-cloud settings. Its Data Lens service provides a comprehensive view of data access and movement, alongside protection against ransomware through real-time threat monitoring and a robust anti-ransomware signature database.
6. Pure Storage
Pure Storage utilizes its Purity OS to enhance software-defined storage within its FlashArray hardware and the Pure Cloud Block Store. This platform incorporates AI for monitoring storage health and ensures high availability with built-in data encryption and disaster recovery features. It supports intelligent management for both cloud and on-premises storage.
7. Red Hat
Red Hat’s Ceph Storage mimics Microsoft’s approach by enabling multiple servers to function as a cohesive storage platform. This architecture automatically distributes data, enhancing resilience against failures. It is scalable enough for large data workloads and supports block, object, and file storage applications.
8. StarWind
StarWind provides two noteworthy products. The StarWind HCI Appliance seamlessly integrates compute, networking, and storage into a modular design, requiring at least two nodes for operation. The StarWind Virtual SAN is tailored for SMBs but is also suitable for edge storage and branch offices, ensuring high availability and compatibility with various hypervisors.
9. StorMagic
StorMagic’s SvSAN is developed for edge computing environments requiring SAN-like capabilities without traditional SAN costs. This software-defined solution can operate with just two x86 servers and a witness server, utilizing synchronous mirroring to maintain data integrity and high availability.
How to Choose a Software-Defined Storage Company
When selecting an SDS provider, consider scalability and performance as primary factors. Compatibility with existing storage hardware and cloud environments is essential, as well as support for diverse storage types (block, object, file). Additionally, evaluate the vendor’s track record and the availability of customer support to ensure reliability and effective problem resolution.