What is a Storage Area Network (SAN)?
A Storage Area Network (SAN) is a dedicated, independent high-speed network that interconnects and delivers shared pools of storage devices to multiple servers. Each server can access shared storage as if it were a drive directly attached to the server. A SAN is typically assembled with cabling, host bus adapters, and SAN switches attached to storage arrays and servers. Each switch and storage system on the SAN must be interconnected.
VMware vSAN - The Market-Leading Hyperconverged Infrastructure Software
Deployment, Management, and Monitoring for Mixed Workloads on VMware vSAN
SAN Definition
A Storage Area Network (SAN) is a network of storage devices that can be accessed by multiple servers or computers, providing a shared pool of storage space. Each computer on the network can access storage on the SAN as though they were local disks connected directly to the computer.
SAN vs. NAS
A SAN and network-attached storage (NAS) are two different types of shared networked storage solutions. While a SAN is a local network composed of multiple devices, NAS is a single storage device that connects to a local area network (LAN).
What is a SAN switch?
A SAN switch is hardware that connects servers to shared pools of storage devices. It is dedicated to moving storage traffic in a SAN.
Related Solutions and Products
vSAN
Flash-optimized, vSphere-native storage
What Is Hyperconverged Infrastructure?
Flash-optimized, vSphere-native storage
SD-WAN
Delivers high-performance, reliable branch access across clouds and apps.