Overland Unveils Unified Version of SnapServer Array

Overland Storage, a diversified storage supplier that is on a comeback after facing serious financial challenges a few years ago, on July 22 unveiled a new unified version of the popular network-attached SnapServer storage array for midrange and larger enterprises.

SnapServer N2000 is a block-and-file-level NAS or SAN package aimed at virtualized environments running VMware, Microsoft Hyper-V or Citrix XenServer. It is integrated for Windows and Unix and can scale up to 144TB in a mere 2U form factor.

The N2000's application bundle includes replication, snapshot capability for both file and iSCSI volumes, the ability to manage multiple SnapServers from one console, and support for both high-performance SAS and SATA drives in a single device.

The SnapServer N2000, which runs on Overland's own GuardianOS, is designed for businesses with high-transaction data-flow environments.

The new system can be installed and operated by non-IT specialists, the company said. The N2000 features intuitive wizards to guide users through installation and creation of storage volumes; it also has a Web-based management console for system administration.

Overland's central management application, SnapServer Manager, enables IT staff to manage all SnapServer NAS and SAN devices from a single interface.

"The rate of virtualization adoption by medium-sized businesses continues to increase. These businesses need to deploy storage solutions that will work within their increasingly complex environments but without the higher price tag associated with enterprise systems," said Benjamin Woo, IDC's program vice-president of worldwide storage systems.

"The SnapServer N2000 delivers the right mix of NAS and iSCSI, price and performance ideal for midrange businesses that are virtualizing their data infrastructure."

SnapServer N2000 is available now with configurations that start at $5,000. For a short time, Overland is offering a "Double Your Capacity" option that enables companies to purchase a 4TB N2000 and receive a free upgrade to an 8TB system.

Overland bought the SnapServer franchise from Adaptec in June 2008 and has been improving the product line on a regular basis.

Overland also is known for its digital tape products and has a loyal installed base in that sector.

Last February, the company introduced a line of NEO E Series enterprise backup and tape archive packages incorporating the company's homegrown and updated LTO-5 software, which consolidates disk and tape storage and essentially doubles the capacity of previous Overland deployments through deduplication and compression.