2010-09-29: SNW Europe: PoINT shows efficient Storage Management based on Multi-Tier Architecture
Siegen. For the first time ever, PoINT Software & Systems GmbH will be exhibiting on this year’s SNW Europe. Always following the motto “Efficient Tiered Storage Management and Archiving”, the company presents its PoINT Storage Manager at booth 102 in Frankfurt. PoINT Storage Manager is an innovative software solution which offers companies an intelligent and effective storage management, granting continued data availability. PoINT Storage Manager is based on a Multi Tier Storage Architecture, which allows integration of diverse technologies (hard disk, tape, optical). In consequence, data which are not permanently needed can be swapped transparently and steadily from a performance-optimized Tier1 device to a cost-optimized Tier 2 or Tier 3 device and can be replaced by links. Users do not only benefit of decreasing backup cost, but also by most efficient use of existing storage equipment and fulfillment of compliance defaults without additional efforts.
PoINT Storage Manager supports a multi tier storage architecture and migrates data – with reference to its status – automatically to the most appropriate storage tier. A tiered storage concept combines the advantages of different storage technologies (hard disk, tape and optical) manufacturer independently into an optimal storage-mix. Backups can be archived in a time- and space-saving manner as migrated data do not need to be saved again – these are already available on redundant second-level-memories.
The product supports file systems as well as appliances (e.g. NetApp FAS) and offers HSM functionality by its proven PoINT Tiered Archive File System ("PoINT TAFS"). The HSM functionality allows to leave active data in high performance storage systems while eliminating inactive data to inexpensive mass storage systems as tape and substituting these by a link ("Reparse point"). Optimal application and virtualization of different storage technologies (Hard Disk, Tape and Optical) - designed as DAS, NAS or SAN memory – can be realized according to their technical specifications. Access to the Multi Tier Storage System is provided via the Tier 1 device and a standard file system (CIFS).
Compliant Archiving as part of a Storage Management Concept
Life periods of currently available physical storage and technology do usually not meet the standards of Compliant Archiving. Thus PoINT Storage Manager encompasses Compliant Archiving as integral part of a Storage Management System and ensures data availability during a complete retention period. By means of configurable filters, data for archiving can be copied onto a different storage layer or – if required – be replaced by a link. In case of substituted storage devices or technologies, data migration runs at the "push of a button". In addition, the PoINT VFS may be configured as a WORM file system where saved/archived data may neither be changed nor be deleted. This is also applicable if the configured storage device is a standard hard disk. During the archiving process, digital fingerprints for each single file are generated so that integrity of data can be proven anytime.
Transparent Migration
For transparent migration of obsolete storage systems into technologic up-to-date storage solutions, PoINT Storage Manager offers non-stop operation of applications via its innovative PoINT VFS migration functionality. At the same time, PoINT VFS seamlessly migrates files from the old system to the new system in the background. Users define by configurable rules the amount of data to be migrated and if, or respectively if so, how long the obsolete storage system shall be operated yet.
About PoINT
PoINT Software & Systems GmbH, situated in Siegen, is specialized in the development of software products and systems solutions for storage and management of data using all available mass storage technologies like hard disks, magnetic tapes and optical media. Close collaboration with leading hardware manufacturers enables an early support of new storage technologies. Besides these complete solutions PoINT also offers its know-how as toolkits, which can be easily integrated in other applications by the programming interface. Furthermore PoINT projects entire storage solutions and provides consultancy with its long-term and versatile experience. PoINT products are distributed by about 50 partners in more than 25 countries world-wide and have been installed successfully in more than 2 million installations. The PoINT product portfolio ranges from recording and duplication of CD/DVD and Blu-ray Discs, professional audio- and video recording to business critical network storage solutions.