1. Centralized Data Storage:
- Create a centralized storage pool where data from multiple servers or applications can be stored.
-Simplify data management, backup, and disaster recovery processes.
2. Virtualized Storage:
- iSCSI SAN can be seamlessly integrated with virtualization platforms such as VMware and Hyper-V.
- Virtual machines can access storage volumes over the network, eliminating the need for local storage.
3. Remote Access:
- iSCSI SAN allows remote offices or branch locations to access storage resources located at a central data center.
-Enables file sharing and collaboration among geographically dispersed teams.
4. Storage Expansion:
-iSCSI SANs provide a flexible way to expand storage capacity without investing in additional physical storage devices.
- Storage volumes can be added or removed as needed, making it a scalable solution.
5. Data Replication and Backup:
- iSCSI SANs can be used to create snapshots or replicas of data for backup and disaster recovery purposes.
- Quickly restore data in case of hardware failures or data loss.
6. High Availability and Fault Tolerance:
-iSCSI SANs often support failover and load balancing capabilities to ensure continuous data availability.
- If one storage node or network link fails, data can be automatically redirected to other available resources.
7. Improved Performance:
-iSCSI SANs utilize high-speed network protocols to transfer data efficiently.
-Faster access to data can enhance overall application performance.
8. Cost-effectiveness:
-iSCSI SANs can be more cost-effective compared to traditional SAN solutions, especially for small and medium-sized businesses.
-There is no need for dedicated hardware or specialized storage controllers.
9. Integration with Existing Infrastructure:
-iSCSI SANs can be easily integrated with existing IT infrastructure, including servers, switches, and routers, without significant modifications.
10. Scalability:
-ISCSI SANs can scale to accommodate growing storage requirements by adding additional storage nodes and expanding network bandwidth.
11. Multi-protocol Support:
-Some iSCSI SAN solutions offer support for multiple storage protocols, such as Fibre Channel and NFS, allowing for seamless integration with diverse storage environments.
12. Thin Provisioning and Deduplication:
-iSCSI SANs may provide features like thin provisioning (allocating storage space as needed) and data deduplication (eliminating redundant data), optimizing storage utilization and reducing costs.