Starwind ISCSI SAN software v.5

Posted by: Roy Mikes in Virtualization on Dec 22, 2009

Tagged in: Virtualization

StarWind Software is a global leader in Storage Virtualization and iSCSI storage for small and midsize companies. StarWind's flagship product is a storage virtualization software platform that turns any industry-standard Windows Server into a fault-tolerant, fail-safe iSCSI SAN. It is designed for use as networked storage for VMware, Hyper-V, Microsoft SQL Server, Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft SharePoint and other server applications configured in server clusters. StarWind Software is focused on providing small and midsize companies with affordable high availability technology which was previously only available in high-end storage products.

 

StarWind Software has released a major version of there Starwind ISCSI Server software – StarWind 5.0 with High Availability support StarWind is going to be #1 iSCSI SAN software for VMware and Hyper-V as they say.

I was asked to test there software and blog about it. I'm obviously honored with this question and of course I will do this. After a short mail traffic between StarWind Software and me I got a license file and the software to test.

Traditional High Availability SANs are expensive and complicated. Starwinds ISCSI SAN software is a must have for small and midsize companies.  I am really surprised about the simplicity of the package. Don't get me wrong but It's strong easy to use and flexible. I think the best way to use this software is on one or even better two fysical server with a lot of disks in one or more RAID groups. Boost up the speed and keep your availability. There are several flavors starting with a 'Starwind server' and ends with a 'Starwind Enterprise HA unlimited' edition. The diverse range of functionalities which comes with the flavors is very useful for small companies who doesn't need all features. You can find your information here.

After downloading the software and installing it with a typical next, next, finish thing I started with the license key which was given me.This was an easy process. First add a target through the management console by clicking on the Starwind icon on your desktop. Of cause there are no servers attach by default. But this is a logical path to follow.

The GUI looks fine and easy to use with clear icons. In the summary view you can find your target lists, devices, CHAP permissions, access rights and more. You can change your skin to a skin that fits better with your OS. You can also change your language. Unfortunately there are only two. English and I think Russian.

When adding a disk you have the options between, Hard disk, Optical Drive en tape device. When choosing the Hard drive you have the option between Physical and virtual. If you continue the process there are almost infinite possibilities. That's really cool!

What more is there to tell. Starwind also distribute free products which you can find here. You should definitely try this.