EMC launches the ViPR "software-defined storage" platform at EMC World 2013-- a technology the company says improves customers' existing storage infrastructures based on generic server hardware.
ViPR uses EMC software adapters to abstract existing storage arrays into a single pool of virtual storage, creating a "plug and play" environment. It manages both infrastructure (in the so-called "Control Plane") and data stored within ("Data Plane), allowing customers to either use both or manage storage arrays wholly through the Control Plane.
Admins can partition storage pools into various storage arrays, managing them by policy-- a process similar to partitioning servers into multiple virtual machines VMware vCentre. Applications can take advantage of multiple types of storage with automated management, provisioning and other capabilities.
Meanwhile the Data Plane handles deduplication, replication, snapshots and thin provisioning via industry-standard server hardware.
ViPR will be available sometime during H2 2013, with initial compatibility with EMC and NetApp intelligent storage arrays. Arrays from other vendors (including EMC VMAX, VNX, Atmos, Centerra and Isilon) will be added later.
