Defining Software Defined Storage

The notion of data services being comprised of software has natural appeal, but what exactly does it mean? Given a huge portfolio of software and hardware that is available for a datacenter today, it is difficult to make sense of what "software defined storage" truly is and what benefits it could provide. While there is some truth to the idea that it is about reducing reliance on costly hardware, many see it as a way to bring new flexibility to datacenter operations. In this discussion, we will propose a set of requirements and benefits, while walking through some examples of various software technologies with the goal of producing a crisp definition.

Learning Objectives

Learn to better define software defined storage and separate the reality from the marketing buzz
Learn about the benefits of software defined storage, and how it can bring new flexibility to your datacenter
Take a look at the future of software defined storage and how this movement is changing the game