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Network-attached storage (NAS) is a type of dedicated file storage device that provides devices with file-based shared storage, usually through a standard Ethernet connection.
An important benefit of NAS is its ability to provide multiple clients on the network with access to the same files. Prior to NAS, enterprises typically had hundreds or even thousands of discrete file servers that had to be separately configured and maintained.
Storage controllers perform a wide range of functions related to a storage system. A storage controller has an Input/Output path to communicate to the storage network or to directly attached storage. A processor within the storage controller will handle the I/O movement of data and related functions such as RAID and volume management.
A technology that uses glass (or plastic) threads (fibers) to transmit data. A fiber optic cable consists of a bundle of glass threads, each of which is capable of transmitting messages modulated onto light waves.
Ethernet is the most commonly used technology within networks today. It allows multiple devices to communicate via copper wiring and electrical signals. Ethernet connectivity can range in speeds of typically up to 10 gigabits per second.
InfiniBand is a type of communications link for data flow between processors and I/O devices that offers throughput of up to 2.5 gigabytes per second. Because it is also scalable and supports quality of service (QoS) and failover, InfiniBand is typically used in high-performance environments.