NetApp introduces software-defined object Storage for the hybrid Cloud

Object storage addresses the challenges associated with the storing of unstructured data within Cloud storage, large archives, media repositories, and web data-stores. StorageGRID Webscale is a foundational platform in NetApp's approach to object storage. The software addresses a range of use cases, managing data placement according to cost, compliance, availability, and performance requirements. NetApp will continue to introduce new solutions to help organizations take full advantage of object storage with releases planned in 2015 and looking forward.

"Today’s organisations are undergoing explosive growth in unstructured data. NetApp helps enterprises get the most from their strategic IT investments with data management and storage that deliver the speed, security, and scalability needed", stated Dan Neault, senior vice president, Data Center Solutions Group, NetApp. "Leveraging 10 years of enterprise object-storage experience, StorageGRID Webscale provides a foundation for software-defined, globally distributed object stores with policies that enable IT to govern data placement and protection worldwide."

StorageGRID Webscale is built for the next generation of Cloud-enabled applications. It supports industry-standard Cloud protocols such as Amazon S3 and CDMI, enabling applications to run on the premises or in hosted environments. NetApp StorageGRID Webscale runs on a virtualized server infrastructure with either NetApp E-Series data storage systems or third-party storage arrays providing the storage foundation.

The software's patented capabilities include an intelligent policy engine which determines the durability and physical placement of data to comply with business requirements. Customizable data management policies help set data protection and storage tiering to easily adjust to changing cost models.

StorageGRID Webscale is now generally available through NetApp's worldwide network of distributors and resellers.

Later this year, NetApp will begin an early adopter programme for the next release of StorageGRID Webscale object-storage software. Customers in this programme will have access to advanced features, including geo-distributed erasure coding for efficient global data protection, and cloud tiering for on-premises and off-premises repositories. General availability for this next generation of StorageGRID Webscale software is planned for 2015.

Ashish Nadkarni, Research Director, Storage Systems, IDC, stated: "Organisations need scalable and manageable software-defined storage that can be deployed across data types and geographies. NetApp is providing an alternative approach, with StorageGRID Webscale, ideal object-storage software for the Cloud. This approach represents the future of enterprise storage for the Cloud."

Ralph Nimergood, Vice President, Worldwide Partner Programmes, CommVault, stated: "For years, CommVault and NetApp have developed some of the most advanced data management and storage solutions in the industry. Together, we deliver an ideal combination of efficiency, performance and reliability. StorageGRID Webscale represents the next phase of NetApp's object-enabled data management strategy. NetApp and CommVault remain committed to providing technology and solutions that are cost effective, highly scalable, and deliver our customers a competitive advantage."

Kash Shaikh, Vice President, Platform Marketing, Riverbed, stated: "When organisations consolidate IT infrastructure and move to multi-Cloud environments, there can be a significant challenge to manage and access data. Riverbed SteelStore has worked with NetApp to provide our joint customers with the solutions to validate, test and manage their data. Our technology, coupled with NetApp's new StorageGRID Webscale object-storage software, provides our customers with the tools needed to take advantage of the Cloud."