Distributed Storage Networks: Architecture, Protocols and Management

Efficient management of stored data is becoming a necessity for every enterprise. The high cost of downtime creates a need for the increased reliability provided by distributed storage systems. Thus the use of storage networks to manage access to data not only provides an increase in performance and survivability, but also generates real and immediate cost savings.

This book focuses on three primary areas: architectures for distributed storage networks, storage protocols and their inherent distance limitations, and management techniques for distributed storage networks.

Distributed Storage Networks

• describes the evolution of data processing from a computer-centric to a storage-centric model
• introduces the concept of a distributed storage-centric processing model
• explains common storage network functional components, such as fabric switches, storage directors, file managers, and gateways, and their roles in a distributed storage environment
• discusses distributed storage network applications, including storage integration, remote database synchronization, and backup/recovery functions
• provides a comparative view of Storage Area Network (SAN) and Network Attached Storage (NAS) functions and capabilities, and points out the advantages of each

One of the primary obstacles to implementing a storage network cited by enterprise IT managers is a lack of knowledge about storage networking technology and the specific issues involved in extending a SAN or NAS over the MAN or WAN. The primary goal of this book is to provide IT managers, planners, and telecommunications professionals with the information they need in order to choose the technologies best suited for their particular environment.