A Deep Dive Into The 12 Best Storage Management Software Of 2023
The CTO is reader-supported. We may earn a commission when you click through links on our site—read our affiliate disclosure to learn more about how we aim to stay transparent.
12 Best Storage Management Software Shortlist
I've shortlisted these as the very best storage management software solutions to use in 2023:
- Cohesity - Best for unified data management across the cloud
- Veeam Backup & Replication - Best for complete backup and replication of VMs
- NetBackup - Best for enterprise-grade backup and recovery
- Hitachi Virtual Storage Platform E Series - Best for high-performance block storage
- HPE Nimble Storage - Best for predictive flash storage in data centers
- ONTAP Data Management Software - Best for hybrid cloud data management
- IBM Spectrum Storage Suite - Best for comprehensive software-defined storage capabilities
- IBM Storage Insights - Best for insightful AI-based storage management
- Cisco UCS Manager - Best for unified computing storage management
- AWS Storage Gateway - Best for hybrid storage service to connect on-premises with AWS
- Dell Unity XT Storage - Best for multi-cloud operations with high efficiency
- ManageEngine OpManager - Best for network and storage monitoring in real-time
As someone who has navigated the vast world of storage management, I know how crucial it is to find a reliable storage management solution.
With the multitude of responsibilities that admins handle, from maintaining access control to performing crucial upgrades, a quality system can be the difference between a smooth operation and constant firefighting.
The ideal software doesn't merely provide a robust file system or convenient performance monitoring; it addresses key pain points like forecasting storage needs, auditing storage devices, and alerting on performance issues, all while facilitating a seamless user experience.
When we delve deeper into this domain, we encounter specialized needs such as self-storage management software for facility management, rentals, and more. Solutions like SiteLink Web Edition and storEDGE have gained prominence in the storage industry by offering targeted functionalities and unique user experiences.
Some tools, like SolarWinds Storage Resource Monitor (SRM), are known for providing extensive metrics, notifications, and performance insights, which are vital in the auditing process.
What you need, ultimately, is a storage management system that gives you control over your LUNs, easy integration with MAC systems, accessible APIs for upgrades, and more. With the right tool, you can transform how you manage your storage, elevating it from a necessary chore to a strategic advantage.
What Is Storage Management Software?
Storage management software is a critical toolset designed to optimize data storage resources, ensuring smooth, efficient, and secure data handling.
These dynamic tools are primarily utilized by IT professionals, data administrators, and businesses large and small, handling tasks that range from data backup and recovery to policy management, replication, and archiving.
They enable streamlined management of vast data resources across various storage architectures – be it on-premises, cloud-based, or hybrid. With a keen focus on enhancing operational efficiency, reducing storage-related costs, and ensuring data security and accessibility, storage management software serves as the cornerstone of effective, modern data management strategies.
Overviews of the 12 Best Storage Management Software
1. Cohesity - Best for unified data management across the cloud
Cohesity is a unified, web-scale platform designed to consolidate your secondary data and applications. It offers solutions for data protection, file and object services, test/dev, and analytics on a single, cloud-native platform, making it the best for managing data across various cloud platforms.
Why I Picked Cohesity:
When compiling this list, I wanted to ensure representation from a tool that specializes in unifying data management in the cloud. Cohesity caught my eye due to its innovative platform that consolidates secondary data and applications, which traditionally reside in silos. I believe it's best for managing data across the cloud due to its multi-cloud data fabric that facilitates instant access to data anywhere.
Standout features & integrations:
Cohesity's notable features include instant mass restore capabilities, global deduplication, zero-cost cloning, and stringent ransomware protection. It also boasts a powerful search and analytics function, allowing for smart, policy-based data management.
It integrates with popular virtual environments like VMware, Hyper-V, and Nutanix AHV and public cloud services such as AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure, which enhances its unified data management potential.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Comprehensive data management solution, capable of handling secondary data and applications
- Advanced ransomware protection safeguards your data
- Smooth integration with various virtual environments and public cloud services
Cons:
- Could be overwhelming for smaller organizations due to its wide range of functionalities
- May require time to fully utilize all features
- Cost could be prohibitive for some users, as pricing is provided upon request only
2. Veeam Backup & Replication - Best for complete backup and replication of VMs
Veeam Backup & Replication is a powerful tool designed to ensure the availability of your virtualized applications. It enables reliable backup, restore, and replication of your virtual machines, thus making it the best choice for complete backup and replication of VMs.
Why I Picked Veeam Backup & Replication:
In selecting tools for this list, I prioritized Veeam Backup & Replication for its focused and reliable service in the backup and replication sphere. It stands out with its application-centric approach to ensure the availability of virtualized applications, making it an optimal choice for safeguarding VMs.
I determined it as best for VM backup and replication due to its extensive capabilities in this area, including Instant VM Recovery and SureBackup.
Standout features & integrations:
Veeam Backup & Replication offers features like Instant VM Recovery, which helps minimize downtime, and SureBackup, to verify the recoverability of every backup. It also supports low RPOs and built-in WAN acceleration for off-site backups and replicas.
The software integrates smoothly with key virtualization platforms such as VMware vSphere and Microsoft Hyper-V and with leading storage providers like Dell EMC, HPE, and NetApp.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Focused on ensuring the availability of virtualized applications
- Offers Instant VM Recovery to reduce downtime
- Seamless integration with key virtualization platforms
Cons:
- Absence of transparent pricing information
- May present a learning curve for those unfamiliar with VM backup and replication
- More advanced features may be unnecessary for small-scale VM environments
3. NetBackup - Best for enterprise-grade backup and recovery
NetBackup by Veritas is a comprehensive, high-performance software designed to protect enterprise-level data. It ensures robust protection across various platforms and environments, making it ideal for enterprise-grade backup and recovery.
Why I Picked NetBackup:
NetBackup earned its place on this list because of its well-rounded capabilities and proven performance in enterprise scenarios. Its flexibility in catering to both virtual and physical environments and its ability to protect a wide array of data types set it apart.
I deemed it the best for enterprise-grade backup and recovery due to its seamless handling of large, complex data environments and robust recovery options.
Standout features & integrations:
NetBackup stands out with its features, such as automated backups, instant recovery for VMware and Hyper-V, and deduplication capabilities. Moreover, its workload-centric protection and high-speed recovery solutions provide essential support to enterprises. NetBackup integrates with a broad range of applications, databases, and systems, including but not limited to Oracle, SAP, Microsoft SQL Server, and Microsoft Exchange.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Delivers comprehensive data protection across diverse environments
- Offers instant recovery for VMware and Hyper-V
- Supports a broad range of integrations with applications, databases, and systems
Cons:
- Lacks upfront, transparent pricing
- The broad range of features might be overwhelming for smaller businesses
- The interface might seem outdated compared to more modern solutions
4. Hitachi Virtual Storage Platform E Series - Best for high-performance block storage
The Hitachi Virtual Storage Platform E Series delivers speed and efficiency like no other, specifically designed for block storage requirements. Its capabilities offer high performance and seamless scalability, justifying its place as a top choice for block storage.
Why I Picked Hitachi Virtual Storage Platform E Series:
The E Series caught my attention because of its exceptional performance and capacity for block storage. Its integration of AI operations and automated data reduction make it not only powerful but also efficient, making it my top choice for high-performance block storage.
Standout features & integrations:
The E Series boasts an array of standout features, including high-speed NVMe performance, AI-driven management, and scalable architecture. It offers automated data reduction, enhancing storage efficiency while maintaining performance. Integration-wise, the E Series plays well with containerized environments and supports broad application ecosystems.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- High-speed performance for block storage
- AI-driven operations enhance storage management efficiency
- Scalable architecture that grows with your data needs
Cons:
- Pricing information isn’t readily available
- May be overkill for smaller businesses with modest storage needs
- Not ideal for businesses that primarily need file or object storage
5. HPE Nimble Storage - Best for predictive flash storage in data centers
The HPE Nimble Storage platform is designed to optimize flash storage with its predictive analytics. This tool delivers fast, reliable access to data and is best suited for data centers that require efficient, high-performance storage.
Why I Picked HPE Nimble Storage:
In choosing HPE Nimble Storage, its predictive capabilities and flash-optimized design truly stood out to me. These features make it ideal for data centers where timely data access is critical. The tool's emphasis on proactive health insights assures that potential issues are addressed before they become problems, making it best for predictive flash storage in data centers.
Standout features & integrations:
HPE Nimble Storage boasts predictive analytics that aid in managing storage health and performance. It offers a six-nines guaranteed availability, ensuring data is always at your fingertips. Regarding integrations, HPE Nimble Storage supports diverse IT environments, integrating with various virtualization platforms like VMware, Hyper-V, and Citrix, and it also has strong ties to cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure and AWS.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Predictive analytics for proactive storage management
- High availability for reliable data access
- Integrates well with both virtualization and cloud platforms
Cons:
- Pricing information is not easily available
- May not be suited to smaller organizations with modest storage needs
- Its extensive features could be overwhelming for businesses with simpler needs
6. ONTAP Data Management Software - Best for hybrid cloud data management
ONTAP Data Management Software provides a unified, scalable platform that consolidates data management across your hybrid cloud. It is designed to simplify and automate control of your data, making it an optimal choice for hybrid cloud data management.
Why I Picked ONTAP Data Management Software:
I selected ONTAP Data Management Software due to its robust and unified approach to managing data across multiple cloud environments. Its standout feature is its ability to streamline operations across on-premises and cloud-based storage. Therefore, I consider it to be the best choice for hybrid cloud data management as it provides an excellent balance of control, accessibility, and automation.
Standout features & integrations:
ONTAP's standout features include data synchronization, which helps to ensure consistency across environments, and storage efficiency services that maximize the value of your storage resources. The software integrates effectively with various cloud services providers, such as AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure, allowing for seamless control and management of data across various platforms.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Effective management of data across multiple cloud environments
- Provides storage efficiency services
- Excellent integrations with popular cloud service providers
Cons:
- Pricing information is not directly available
- Might be complex for small businesses
- Can be overkill for businesses with a single-cloud environment
7. IBM Spectrum Storage Suite - Best for comprehensive software-defined storage capabilities
IBM Spectrum Storage Suite is a comprehensive suite of software-defined storage capabilities. It offers a broad range of services, including data protection, availability, and reduction. Given its robustness, I deem it best for organizations looking for an all-encompassing software-defined storage solution.
Why I Picked IBM Spectrum Storage Suite:
I chose IBM Spectrum Storage Suite due to its breadth of software-defined storage features, making it a comprehensive solution for data storage needs. Its standout characteristic is its ability to provide a unified management framework, allowing for seamless operation across various storage types.
This makes it the best solution for comprehensive software-defined storage capabilities, offering robust data protection and availability services.
Standout features & integrations:
IBM Spectrum Storage Suite offers a multitude of impressive features, such as automated data tiering, thin provisioning, and data reduction. The Suite seamlessly integrates with IBM's family of products, offering interoperability with IBM Spectrum Protect, IBM Spectrum Archive, and IBM Spectrum Control, amongst others.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Comprehensive suite of software-defined storage capabilities
- Unified management framework allows for ease of operation across different storage types
- Excellent interoperability with other IBM products
Cons:
- Pricing information is not readily available
- May be overly complex for smaller businesses
- Specific features may go unused, depending on the organization's needs
8. IBM Storage Insights - Best for insightful AI-based storage management
IBM Storage Insights is an AI-based tool that helps organizations to monitor, manage, and optimize their storage environments. It stands out by using artificial intelligence to provide insights and recommendations for data management, making it best for insightful AI-based storage management.
Why I Picked IBM Storage Insights:
I selected IBM Storage Insights due to its use of artificial intelligence to optimize storage management. Its standout aspect is the AI-driven predictive analytics capability, which can provide valuable insights to prevent potential storage issues before they escalate.
This tool is, in my judgment, best suited for those looking for AI-based storage management, as it intelligently identifies and solves issues proactively.
Standout features & integrations:
IBM Storage Insights provides a range of features, including AI-driven predictive analytics, simplified storage management, and automated alerts. It integrates with a host of other IBM products, including IBM Spectrum Control and IBM Spectrum Protect, allowing for extensive storage and data protection capabilities.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- AI-driven predictive analytics helps identify and resolve issues proactively
- Simplifies storage management with intuitive and automated controls
- Integrates well with other IBM products for extensive capabilities
Cons:
- Pricing information is not readily available
- The extensive features might present a learning curve for new users
- Dependency on other IBM products for maximum effectiveness
9. Cisco UCS Manager - Best for unified computing storage management
Cisco UCS Manager is a storage management tool that allows for the seamless administration of infrastructure components. Its unified approach facilitates comprehensive control over various storage environments, making it the best tool for unified computing storage management.
Why I Picked Cisco UCS Manager:
I chose Cisco UCS Manager because of its unique approach to unified storage management. By integrating computing, storage, and network resources, it offers a holistic view of an organization's infrastructure.
In comparing it to other tools, it was evident that the UCS Manager stands out due to its centralized and integrated management capabilities. Hence, I determined that it is the best for managing unified computing storage, as it allows organizations to have a comprehensive understanding and control of their storage environments.
Standout features & integrations:
Cisco UCS Manager offers centralized management for computing, networking, software, and storage. It also has policy-based management for efficient and consistent operations.
Additionally, it integrates well with Cisco's suite of products and services, such as the Cisco Intersight, providing more holistic solutions for storage and computing management.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Centralized management of various resources offers a comprehensive view and control
- Policy-based management ensures consistent operations
- Smooth integration with other Cisco services
Cons:
- Pricing details are not readily available
- Learning curve due to the complex nature of unified management
- Dependent on other Cisco products for full feature utilization
10. AWS Storage Gateway - Best for hybrid storage service to connect on-premises with AWS
AWS Storage Gateway is a hybrid storage service that enables on-premises applications to use AWS cloud storage seamlessly. Its design allows for easy integration of on-premises environments with the scalable and reliable storage backends of AWS, making it the ideal solution for hybrid storage service that connects on-premises environments with AWS.
Why I Picked AWS Storage Gateway:
I selected AWS Storage Gateway for its capacity to bridge the gap between on-premises storage and AWS cloud storage. It stands out from other options because of its seamless integration with AWS, which I believe is one of the world's leading cloud platforms.
In making my selection, I judged AWS Storage Gateway as the best tool for connecting on-premises storage with AWS due to its reliable, secure, and scalable nature.
Standout features & integrations:
The most notable features of AWS Storage Gateway include its support for file, volume, and tape storage types, which makes it versatile for different storage needs. It also has built-in security features such as encryption for data-at-rest and data-in-transit.
AWS Storage Gateway integrates well with a variety of AWS services, including AWS Backup for managing backups across AWS services and Amazon CloudWatch for monitoring your resources.
Pricing:
Pricing for AWS Storage Gateway starts from $0.01 per GB/month. This fee applies to the amount of data stored in AWS through your gateways but doesn't include the cost of transferring data to and from AWS.
Pros:
- Supports various storage types for diverse needs
- Provides secure encryption for data-at-rest and data-in-transit
- Seamless integration with other AWS services
Cons:
- Pricing can become complex with data transfer costs
- Requires knowledge of AWS infrastructure for maximum utility
- Dependence on the AWS ecosystem may not suit all businesses
11. Dell Unity XT Storage - Best for multi-cloud operations with high efficiency
Dell Unity XT Storage is an All-Flash and hybrid storage solution designed to support multi-cloud operations. By delivering unified storage speed and efficiency while reducing footprint, it is a perfect choice for operations that require high efficiency in a multi-cloud environment.
Why I Picked Dell Unity XT Storage:
I chose Dell Unity XT Storage due to its prowess in supporting multi-cloud environments and its superb efficiency. Its ability to handle high IOPS and low latency workloads sets it apart from others, making it an exceptional choice. I also found that its dual-active controller architecture contributes significantly to it being the best for multi-cloud operations with high efficiency.
Standout features & integrations:
Dell Unity XT Storage comes with an array of valuable features, such as dual-active controller architecture and NVMe-ready design, which provide high-performance data access. Moreover, it includes inline data reduction for all-flash pools and CloudIQ, a no-cost cloud-based storage analytics platform.
Important integrations for Dell Unity XT Storage include support for VMware, Microsoft, and various Linux environments, and it fits seamlessly into the Dell Technologies Cloud strategy.
Pricing:
Dell Unity XT Storage pricing can vary based on the specifications and configurations chosen, with the exact prices being available upon request.
Pros:
- High-performance data access with dual-active controller architecture
- Support for multi-cloud operations
- Compatibility with a variety of environments, including VMware and Microsoft
Cons:
- Pricing information is not readily available
- Complexity of setup may require technical expertise
- Dependence on Dell ecosystem for maximum benefits
12. ManageEngine OpManager - Best for network and storage monitoring in real-time
ManageEngine OpManager is a comprehensive network management software solution that offers robust and reliable network and storage monitoring in real-time. With its ability to handle large networks and deliver detailed analytics, it aligns with real-time network and storage monitoring needs remarkably well.
Why I Picked ManageEngine OpManager:
I selected ManageEngine OpManager based on its real-time monitoring capabilities and broad coverage of network and storage assets. Its uniqueness lies in its integrated network management functions, combined with storage tracking, something not commonly found in one package. These attributes contribute to why I believe it stands out as the best for real-time network and storage monitoring.
Standout features & integrations:
ManageEngine OpManager has critical features like automated discovery of network devices, physical and virtual server monitoring, bandwidth analysis, and advanced network configuration management. It supports integration with various third-party applications like Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, and MySQL databases, adding versatility to its range of service offerings.
Pricing:
The pricing for ManageEngine OpManager starts from $245/year, which, when broken down monthly, comes to around $20.41/user/month. Please note this is billed annually.
Pros:
- Integrated network and storage monitoring
- Real-time data tracking and analysis
- Extensive third-party integrations
Cons:
- Pricing may be high for small businesses
- The user interface might seem complex for new users
- Advanced features require technical knowledge to utilize effectively
Other Storage Management Software
Below is a list of additional storage management software that I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Pure Storage FlashArray - Good for all-NVMe flash storage and fast access times
- Dell PowerMax NVMe Storage - Good for scalable, high-performance storage needs
- HPE 3PAR StoreServ Storage - Good for mixed workload handling and tiered storage optimization
- IBM Storage FlashSystem - Good for AI-driven storage management and data resilience
- StorageGRID - Good for flexible hybrid cloud integrations and data security
- OceanStor Data Storage - Good for converged storage supporting SAN, NAS, and Object storage
- Microsoft Storage Spaces Direct (S2D) - Good for building software-defined storage clusters in Windows Server
- Red Hat Ceph Storage - Good for scalable, open-source storage in cloud environments
- Zadara - Good for fully managed, pay-as-you-go enterprise storage services
- Commvault - Good for data backup, recovery, and comprehensive data management
- One-Click Infrastructure - Good for streamlining and automating infrastructure operations
- OpenText™ Extended ECM - Good for content management with ERP, CRM integrations
- NexentaStor - Good for Software-Defined Storage with unified file and block support
- Qumulo - Good for managing and understanding petabyte-scale workloads
- InfiniBox - Good for high availability, performance and multi-petabyte scalability
Selection Criteria For Storage Management Software
When selecting the most efficient and effective storage management tools, several critical criteria came to the forefront. Evaluating and experimenting with numerous such tools, I can confirm that not all are created equal. My choices were influenced by specific functionality that would cater to various use cases and deployment scenarios, which I'll delve into below.
Core Functionality:
- Data Storage: The tool should allow for efficient storage of a large volume of data across various formats.
- Scalability: It should be able to scale storage capacity up or down based on changing requirements.
- Data Protection: It should ensure data safety through mechanisms like replication, encryption, and backup.
- Data Recovery: The tool must have the ability to recover data in the event of a system crash or failure.
Key Features:
- Hybrid Deployment: Support for both on-premises and cloud-based storage, giving users the flexibility to choose where they want to store their data.
- Multi-Protocol Support: Ability to support different storage protocols such as block, file, and object storage.
- Data Tiering: Automated movement of data between different storage tiers based on usage patterns and policies to optimize costs and performance.
- High Availability: Features to ensure maximum uptime and minimal disruption to data access in case of any failure.
Usability:
- User Interface: The tool should have a clean, intuitive interface that lets users manage and monitor their storage infrastructure easily. For instance, dashboards for real-time analytics and visualizations for capacity planning can greatly aid in storage management.
- Onboarding: Seamless onboarding process with clear instructions and, preferably, a walk-through of the basic functions. Tools with complexities must provide a learning library or a training program.
- Support: Efficient and responsive customer support is crucial, especially when dealing with data storage. The tool should offer multiple support channels - email, phone, live chat, and an online knowledge base.
- Integration: The tool should integrate well with existing IT infrastructure, such as integrating with hypervisors for storage provisioning in virtual environments or with data management tools for data lifecycle management.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using storage management software?
Using storage management software brings several benefits:
- Improved Efficiency: These tools help manage data storage effectively by automating processes, reducing human errors, and saving time.
- Scalability: They can scale up or down according to business needs, ensuring that you only pay for what you use.
- Data Protection: These tools provide features like data backup, replication, and encryption, enhancing data security.
- Cost Savings: By optimizing storage utilization and reducing over-provisioning, these tools can result in significant cost savings.
- Easy Access and Retrieval: With effective indexing and search capabilities, these tools enable quick and easy data access and retrieval.
How much do storage management tools typically cost?
Storage management tools can range widely in cost, depending on the specific functionalities, the volume of data, and the deployment model. They might charge based on the amount of storage used, the number of users, or a combination of both.
What are the pricing models for storage management tools?
The pricing models for these tools typically include subscription-based pricing, usage-based pricing, or a one-time perpetual license fee. Subscription-based pricing is usually charged on a monthly or annual basis, while usage-based pricing depends on the amount of storage consumed.
What is the typical range of pricing for storage management software?
Pricing can start as low as $10/user/month and can go up to several thousand dollars per month for enterprise-level solutions. It largely depends on the complexity and scale of the storage infrastructure.
Which is the cheapest and the most expensive storage management software?
The pricing for storage management software can vary significantly. On the lower end of the scale, solutions like Zadara start at around $5 per user per month. On the higher end, solutions like Dell PowerMax NVMe Storage or IBM FlashSystem can run into thousands of dollars per month for large enterprises.
Are there any free options for storage management software?
Yes, there are free options available, although they often come with limitations. Tools like FreeNAS and Openfiler offer open-source network-attached storage (NAS) software. However, they might lack the advanced features and support that paid options provide.
Other Related Storage Software Reviews
Summary
Navigating the world of storage management software can be complex, given the diverse range of options available in the market. However, understanding your specific needs and the unique selling propositions of various tools can make the decision-making process more straightforward.
Key Takeaway 1: Align the tool with your specific needs. Consider the scale of your operations, the nature of your data, and the level of security you need when selecting storage management software.
Key Takeaway 2: Pay attention to usability and support. Storage management software should not only provide robust functionality but also be user-friendly. Additionally, comprehensive customer support can prove invaluable, especially for businesses with limited technical expertise.
Key Takeaway 3: Assess the cost-effectiveness. Cost should not just be viewed in terms of upfront pricing but also in light of efficiency gains, scalability, and potential cost savings from enhanced storage utilization.
While evaluating different software, keeping these points in mind will guide you toward a solution that best fits your organization's storage management needs.
What Do You Think?
As I wrap up this comprehensive overview of storage management software, I invite you, the readers, to share your experiences and insights. If you believe any noteworthy tools should be on this list, please feel free to suggest them.
Your input can greatly enrich our collective understanding of the best solutions in the market. After all, the purpose of this guide is to facilitate informed decision-making and foster a dynamic discussion about the most effective storage management software.