Recently I setup a SAN at my office to handle file sharing and data storage and replace our current file server with a more scalable solution. Getting this configured wasn’t so bad, however getting migrated to the solution is still in the coming “soon” stage of planning.
I had been planning on configuring a couple different CIFS servers (one for general file sharing, departmental files and things and one for home directories). Because these seem to be the fastest to implement and certainly to get out to the users, this might get things up and running sooner than other options.
However, I have also been considering configuring a Windows Storage Server to attach some iSCSI LUNs to and share out to the users that way. I realize that the Storage Server will have some overhead with it, but I will be able to continue using some storage monitoring tools we already own, and have an opportunity to get my hands on the latest iteration of Storage Server. Since a previous release of the product launched me into new and exciting experiences, it might be a good experience to check out the new version.
Waiting for licensing
Because the licensing for the applications to test this at work might be costly and take time to bring the appropriate approvals, my home lab might get me the first taste of things.
My current setup consists of a Windows Server 2008 R2 VM, A Windows Storage Server 2008 VM and a Windows 7 Enterprise client VM.
The storage will be VHDs inside the host server for now (maybe eventually additional storage will make it into the home lab).
Depending on testing
If the initial tests in my lab work out alright I might look into the additional licensing costs for Storage Server. Either way I am hoping to review the product once I get my feet wet.
If any of you have had a chance to take a crack at Windows Storage Server 2008 R2, what are your initial thoughts? I would love to hear them in the comments.
