A storage area network, or SAN, is a group of interconnected, high-speed storage devices.

It
consists of a network of multiple devices that is more expensive and difficult to set up and
manage. Each server has access to shared storage like a drive that is physically connected to
the server.

Uses

● to make it possible for all designated network users to access additional storage devices
in addition to those that are already installed on their personal computers or laptops.
● The servers that network users access are connected to the SAN, all storage devices
are shared within the SAN.

Advantages

● The amount of storage needed on a network server to access the same data by several
users is reduced.
● Server storage processing is moved to different networks using SANs.
● High availability, scalability, flexibility, and easier management are all made possible by
SANs.
● With a remote copy, SANs defend data from disaster and malicious assaults.SANs are
also employed for storage redundancy in the event of an unanticipated natural disaster
and data loss.
● SANs make management simpler by producing a single image of the storage medium.

Disadvantages

● Because fibre technology is being employed, it requires a large financial investment.

● SAN is intended to manage numerous expensive servers in big quantities.
● Even when SAN uses the proper security procedures, data leakage is still a risk. A data
breach from one of the computers could have an effect.
● It takes some time before it starts to work. Services like downtime and disaster recovery
take longer to have an impact on an organization.
● Due to a variety of factors and the use of modern storage devices, SAN is complex in
nature. Therefore, it needs to be maintained and supported by IT specialists, which
could raise the cost of Storage Area Network further.