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We're on Our Way to the Utility Data Center
Among this dizzying array of products and technologies, we've identified some key trends of late--notably server consolidation and burgeoning support for the iSCSI protocols.
April 28, 2003
4 Min Read
• Introduction• Security• Network & SystemsManagement • Mobile & Wireless• Digital Convergence• Business Applications• Infrastructure• Storage • View out On-DemandWebcast of the WCA. Ceremony. • Best of Interop On-Site |
Server makers continue their steady march toward commodization. Many vendors are using the same chipsets, processors and embedded NICs. As a result, the emphasis in the server arena hasn't been on performance but on serviceability, software, manageability and cost. We've undoubtedly started on the path to the utility data center, where processing power, memory, internal and external bandwidth and storage are data-center resources, not isolated on individual servers. Current server consolidation and storage virtualization trends are indicative: IBM, Hewlett-Packard, Sun and other companies have begun utility-computing projects for high-end data centers. These initiatives are crucial proof-of-concept work, demonstrating the viability of the utility data center. Many of the products we tested this year edge us toward the goal of implementing such a center.Storage Software or Service | SAN Technology |
Storage Software or Service
Winner: Altiris Deployment Solution, Altiris, (888) 252-5551, (801) 226-8500. www.altiris.com
The Altiris Deployment Solution is a robust, centrally controlled system-imaging system for the enterprise and distributed enterprise. It allows for clean, fast reinstalls of client machines on your network, with a bevy of attributes that outshine those of competing products. These features include a centralized console to handle multiple deployments, remote-control capabilities for client workstations, and automated handling of Windows SID (Security ID) changes--a big plus.
Finalists:
• Symantec Ghost Corporate Edition 7.5, Symantec Corp., (800) 745-6054, (408) 517-8000. www.symantec.com• Xdrive Workgroup, Xdrive, (310) 586-7151. www.xdrive.com
SAN Technology
Winner: QLogic SANbox2 16 Port Fibre Channel Switch, QLogic Corp., (877) 975-6442, (949) 389-6000. www.qlogic.com
In the fiercely competitive world of Fibre Channel switch equipment, QLogic's SANbox2 stands out among entries from big competitors such as McData and Brocade. The SANbox2's performance and compatibility are top-notch, and its price is competitive. Featurewise, the product isn't flashy, but it boasts compatibility and a good user interface, which is your entrée to everything you need to administer and configure an enterprise SAN.
Finalists:
• SilkWorm 3800, Brocade Communications, (408) 487-8000. www.brocade.com• Sphereon 4500 Fabric Switch, McData Corp., (800) 545-5773, (303) 460-9200. www.mcdata.com
Server
Winner: PowerEdge 6650, Dell Computer Corp., (800) 289-3355, (512) 338-4400. www.dell.com
Dell's PowerEdge 6650 is our top server pick thanks to its solid, across-the-board performance numbers and stellar usability and maintenance features. On the connectivity front, the 6650 is on the leading edge with eight expansion slots, dual on-board Gigabit Ethernet ports and dual USB 1.1 ports. As for software, Dell's OpenManage Server Assistant installation application more than gets the job done, simplifying server OS installations. Finally, the OpenManage systems-management software combines usability with power, including perks like driver and BIOS updates from Dell's Web site. The PowerEdge 6650 is also our pick as Storage & Server product of the year.
Finalists:
• IBM x255, IBM, (888) SHOP-IBM, (800) BM-4YOU. www.ibm.com• Xserve, Apple, (800) MY-APPLE. www.apple.com
Steven J. schuchart Jr. covers storage and servers for Network Computing. Previously he worked as a network architect for a general retail firm, a PC and electronics technician, a computer retail store manager, and a freelance disc jockey. Write to him at [email protected].
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PowerEdge 6500, Dell Computer Corp., (800) 289-3355, (512) 338-4400. www.dell.com
Product of the Yearclick to enlarge |
The Dell PowerEdge 6650 is an innovative server that delivers power, flexibility and impressive performance for an attractive price--$31,885 list (when tested), including the operating system. No single feature makes the 6500 the best overall offering we encountered in the Storage & Server area during the past year; rather, the product's combination of functionality and value to the enterprise data center earns it the top spot. Dell combines the seemingly universally utilized ServerWorks Grand Champion HE chipset with the serviceability we seek in a server, all packaged in an aesthetically pleasing design with good rack features, including a handy folding cable management system and the snazzy Dell Active Bezel lights that quickly alert managers when a system is in trouble.Storage & Servers Links at www.nwc.com ...
• 2003 Survivor's Guide to Storage & Server Technology• Storage and server white papers
• Storage and server stories on nwc.com
... And Around the Internet• Fibre Alliance, www.fibrealliance.org
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