Buy SAN: Storage Area Network solutions for professional IT infrastructures
A SAN, short for Storage Area Network, is a dedicated storage environment that connects servers, SAN switches, storage systems, and software via its own network. The aim is to provide centralized storage efficiently and powerfully – independently of local server hard drives.
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IBM System Storage DS3400 Simple SAN Kit Model 41U - Hard drive array
HPE Alletra 5030 84TB (21x4TB) Dual Controller Array Bundle
Lenovo ThinkSystem DE4000F FC All Flash Array SFF (64 GB cache, 4x 16 Gb FC base ports [no SFPs], 8x 16 Gb FC HIC ports [no SFPs])
HPE MSA 2070 SFF 2x10/25GbE iSCSI 4-port Cntrl 12x1.92TB SSD 4x25Gb iSCSI XCVR 23TB Storage Array
What is a SAN network and how does it work?
A SAN network separates data storage from the general LAN, ensuring higher performance and lower risk of failure. It is usually based on high-speed connections such as Fibre Channel or iSCSI.
Typical SAN components:
- SAN switch: Central distribution point for data traffic – e.g., Cisco Active Fabric.
- SAN server: Connects applications to the central storage.
- SAN storage systems: Provide scalable mass storage, e.g., with SSD/HDD combinations.
- Management software: For managing, monitoring, and automating the SAN structure.
Advantage: Compared to NAS (Network Attached Storage), a SAN offers block-based access, which is ideal for data-intensive applications such as databases, virtualization, or backup solutions.
What advantages do SAN systems offer businesses?
SAN systems are suitable for medium to large businesses that have high requirements for data availability, redundancy, and scalability. Typical areas of application are:
- Virtualized infrastructures (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V)
- Databases with high IOPS requirements
- Backup and disaster recovery environments
- Central file sharing for multiple locations
Your advantages at a glance:
- High transfer rates thanks to dedicated networks
- Centralized data management
- Flexible storage expansion
- Minimization of downtime
SAN storage solutions in comparison: Fibre Channel or iSCSI?
A Fibre Channel SAN relies on its own fast fiber optic infrastructure with low latency and high stability – ideal for business-critical applications. Alternatively, iSCSI offers a more cost-effective solution via the existing Ethernet network.
Fibre Channel SAN advantages:
- Up to 32 Gbit/s bandwidth
- Separate network infrastructure – high security
- High compatibility with enterprise systems
Buying SAN storage – what should IT buyers look out for?
When buying SAN storage, several factors are important:
- Scalability: How easy is it to expand the storage?
- Compatibility: Does the SAN support your servers, virtualization platforms, and backup strategies?
- Redundancy: Dual controllers, power supplies, and paths increase reliability.
- Management: Intuitive tools and monitoring features reduce administrative overhead.
HPE SAN & IBM SAN: Reliable enterprise solutions
At IT Market, you will find tested SAN solutions from leading manufacturers such as:
- HPE SAN: e.g., HPE StoreEasy – versatile, high-performance, and particularly user-friendly
- IBM SAN: Scalable high-end systems for large data centers
- Cisco SAN: e.g., the Cisco Active Fabric Switch – maximum performance and future-proofing
Tip: Compact SAN systems with 2-4 slots are suitable for smaller environments or remote locations. In larger environments, we recommend modular SAN storage solutions with cluster functionality.
Buy SAN at it-market
At it-market, you will find a wide selection of SAN storage systems (used, refurbished, or new) for every scenario.
We offer you:
- 3-year warranty for companies
- up to 2.500€ buyer protection
- short delivery times
Do you have any questions or would you like to buy new, refurbished, or used storage area networks? Our sales team will be happy to answer your questions about IT hardware and IT remarketing.