Data managed more securely at branches
Data managed more securely at branches
Dec 15, 2004: Remote branch offices can feel more confident about their data being managed more securely thanks to the introduction of the Cisco File Engine Series, which uses wide area file services technology to centralise content stored on different distant systems.
Through the use of WAFS, IT administrators can consolidate all of their branch-office data and server infrastructure, such as file and print servers and tape backup devices, into the data centre.
The File Engine also has an Edge File Engine in it, which is deployed at each branch, replacing file and print servers and providing desktops and laptops with fast file access.
The main Core File Engine sits at the data centre and links up with the other files servers or network attached gateways, allowing it to process files for each Edge File Engine.
Steve Duplessie, the senior analyst and founder of the Enterprise Strategy group, said: "Consolidating remote branch-office files services and storage to a central location will make it easier for IT administrators to manage these discrete resources while allowing them to take advantage of the highly available data-protection infrastructure that is readily available in the main data centres.
"However, until the availability of WAFS technology, there was no real practical way to solve the latency issues involved in accessing files over long distances. Staying at a higher applications level, and not just focusing on the pipe itself, is a critical ingredient to be able to successfully pull this off."
The Cisco WAFS Central Manager provides centralised management and monitoring of every file engine deployed within an enterprise.
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