Definition

storage filer

A storage filer is a file server designed and programmed for high-volume data storage, backup, and archiving. Storage filers are also known as network attached storage (NAS) filers, storage file servers, or storage area network (SAN) filers. They are used in data sharing applications including the Internet, fibre channel SANs, and Ethernet LANs.

The best storage filers are characterized by around-the-clock availability, scalability, expandability, independent programming, ease of management, support of multiple network protocols, high storage capacity, storage redundancy, high throughput, security features, and connectivity to a variety of backup device types and configurations. Costs can range from a few thousand dollars to about $100,000.

This was last updated in September 2005
Posted by: Margaret Rouse

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