The EMC VNXe series of storage systems are a family of systems that provides block storage and with some models file storage. The systems provide a wide set of connectivity options for block access and for file access as a NAS system. The VNXe has two models: one targeted as an entry-level enterprise storage system and the other as a small to midsize business (SMB) or Remote Office/Branch Office (ROBO) system. The VNXe series run the VNXe Operating Environment – MCx. The VNXe systems can simultaneously support block and file storage on the same storage processors that are installed in the system in the case of the VNXe3200. The VNXe1600 is block mode only.
The VNXe series models consist of the following modular components:
The operating environment of the VNXe3200 is the same as VNX – MCx, supporting multiple cores and multiple threads. Caching using SSDs (SLC) is part of the FAST Cache (MCF) implementation with both read and write caching.
The EMC VNXe system is targeted for usage in the small enterprise and small to mid-size business space or remote offices that need either a SAN block storage solution, a NAS system or both. Even with the low entry price, the EMC system includes many advanced features and capabilities inherited from the earlier midrange VNX system.
Evaluator Group product review methodology “EvaluScale” assesses each product within a specific technology area. The definitions of the criteria and explanations of how products are reviewed can be found in the Evaluator Series Evaluation Guide. Download the product brief now to view the Evaluscale for this product.
Dell EMC VNXe is a unified SAN and NAS system where the file serving function is integral to the system. As an entry-level system, it is more likely to be used for both SAN and NAS and this capability will be useful. Running as a true unified system allows for a lower hardware price and usually a better, integrated management experience. The maturity of the NAS implementation includes a full spectrum of file protocols.
VNXe is not a scale-out system, which means for increasing performance in parallel with capacity, a new controller pair (another model) must be installed. Evaluator Group believes the long heritage of the VNXe system evolved from EMC VNX and Clariion before that, means it is a low-risk, high functional value storage solution. The lack of scale-out is one limitation that must be managed by the customer when choosing the correct model and planning for replacements on pace with coupled capacity and performance demands.