Releases

posted on 11 June 2008 07:23

June 10, 2008 — Brocade® (Nasdaq: BRCD), the leader in data center networking solutions that help enterprises connect and manage their information, today announced a free downloadable utility and related assessment program to help customers address the explosive growth of file data stored across their distributed networks.

Professionally developed and tested, Brocade File Insight is a reporting utility for Microsoft Windows administrators in charge of managing distributed file environments using Server Message Block (SMB)/Common Internet File System (CIFS) protocols.

File Insight was designed as an enterprise-class tool that provides a quick and simple way for administrators to obtain an overview of Windows file data by collecting file metadata and producing meaningful reports on file age, size, type, and other useful statistics gathered across a company’s diverse and distributed file storage environment. According to industry research, a typical large enterprise might hold 70 to 80 percent of that organisation’s data in remote and distributed branch offices, adding to management complexity.

Brocade File Insight differs from operating system tools in that it is able to report across heterogeneous SMB/CIFS-based storage environments. In addition, the utility is lightweight, easy to use, non-intrusive, and able to scan hundreds of thousands of files in just minutes. It is available now as both a self-assessment utility and as part of a streamlined Brocade File Insight Value Assessment engagement.

“We’re seeing companies of all sizes drowning in file data, with annual growth rates over 60 percent, and they need a way to quickly assess their file storage problems and opportunities across a mix of Windows shares and NAS devices,” said Truls Myklebust, Senior Director, Brocade Files Product Marketing. “Brocade File Insight provides comprehensive file environment reports, and it helps IT administrators make decisions regarding deploying file management solutions as a way to optimise resources and automate ongoing file management tasks.”

Brocade File Insight Value Assessment

Utilising the Brocade File Insight utility, Windows and storage solution vendors will be able to deliver valuable assessment services to their customers. Currently available directly from Brocade, the File Insight Value Assessment is being made available globally through select Brocade Partners.

The Brocade File Insight Value Assessment adds the dimension of cost savings to the file environment analysis. The engagement helps customers interpret findings in their file environment and provides a detailed analysis report, including risk and cost analysis. Specific areas analyzed include capacity, growth trends, file characteristics (file ages, file types, file sizes), business continuity considerations, file systems cost, file systems risk, and compliance considerations.

“As file data growth continues to spiral out of control, more and more of our customers need to address their file data management challenges,” said Ron Stewart, Executive Vice President, FlexITy Solutions, Inc. “Brocade File Insight provides FlexITy with an easy and fast way to help our customers identify strategies for more cost-effectively and efficiently managing their growing volumes of file data.”

Availability

Brocade File Insight and the Brocade File Insight Value Assessment are available today. For additional information and a free download of the utility, visit www.brocade.com/FileInsight.

About Brocade

Brocade is the leading provider of data centre networking solutions that help organisations connect, share, and manage their information in the most efficient manner. Organisations that use Brocade products and services are better able to optimise their IT infrastructures and ensure compliant data management. For more information, visit the Brocade Web site at www.brocade.com or contact the company at info@brocade.com.

^{[Formatted by Paul Warren.]}