Openfiler is an enterprise-grade, Linux-based networked attached server (NAS) cum storage area network (SAN) distro. It is the only Open Source and free NAS/SAN solution that we know of.
Origin – Home Page: UK – Openfiler
Management Interface: Easy to navigate, SSL-enabled, browser-based GUI, console access, and remote access via SSH
Price: Free and Open Source
Comments: Openfiler sports an Anaconda-powered GUI installer. As expected, LVM is supported, but it is not the default (the installer creates a swap, /boot, and a / partition with ext3 filesystem). This was a surprise because we expected a NAS/SAN distro to create an LVM-based partitioning scheme by default.
Aside from English, the GUI interface may be administrated in French, German, Italian, and Spanish. Configuration backup and restore, and access control for networks and hosts are important feature. All installed packages can be updated from the GUI. Openfiler is developed and maintained by Xinit Systems Limited, a UK-based Open Source company.
Because of the advanced SAN feature, Openfiler is not really intended for home or personal use. FreeNAS is a better alternative for individuals needing just a NAS. However, small and medium-sized businesses not willing to spend big bucks on non-free NAS/SAN solutions will be very happy with Openfiler.
Download Installable images (CD iso and virtual machines) for Openfiler are available for x86 and x86-64 architectures. The following virtual machines are supported: Xen, VMware, QEMU, Virtual Iron and Parallels. All images are listed here. Commercial support for Openfiler is provided by Xinit Systems Limited.
Tutorials/Tips: There is a well documented admin guide.
