Our primary use case for this product is to obtain high availability for our file servers under the control of the Microsoft Windows 2008 operating system.
StarWind Virtual SAN Review
High availability for a small cost
What is our primary use case?
How has it helped my organization?
We have a ready-made solution for a small cost. This has helped to improve the reliability of service and operation in all departments, without having to stop in case of emergency situations.
What is most valuable?
The most valuable feature is the ability to offer high availability service without purchasing external storage systems. It is quick, easy, and simple. This is a good, economical solution compared to data storage systems. We saved a lot of money. The system will increase the level of backup, adding an additional copy of the data for the same money.
What needs improvement?
It would help us if the vendor continues to release software updates for earlier versions of the Windows operating systems. For example, Windows Server 2008 R2. We are sitting on earlier Microsoft products while there is support. This is because of the need for new hardware when switching to new software.
For how long have I used the solution?
More than five years.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
The stability is very good. We have not observed failure in seven years of use.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
Scaling this solution is easy and simple.
How are customer service and technical support?
Support has standard procedures and rules. It was provided at a good level.
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
We did not use a different solution previously. We switched from a system that did not offer high availability.
How was the initial setup?
The initial setup was simple.
What about the implementation team?
The installation was completed by our in-house team.
What was our ROI?
Our return of investment on this product is 100%.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
My advice is to use all the features of the service, including software updates and technical support.
Which other solutions did I evaluate?
We did not evaluate other products because this option was the only one available at our cost point.
What other advice do I have?
Overall, this is a good product for good money.
**Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Last updated: Apr 21 2019
Author
Artur Kamalov
Head of Local Area Network Department at JSC Ufanet
Real User
Top 10Highlights
Pros
This has helped to improve the reliability of service and operation in all departments, without having to stop in case of emergency situations.
Cons
It would help us if the vendor continues to release software updates for earlier versions of the Windows operating systems.
Pricing Advice
This is a good, economical solution compared to data storage systems.