Storage Virtualization platforms

Updated: July 31, 2023

Storage virtualization is a technology that abstracts the physical storage infrastructure from the logical storage layer, allowing for centralized management and pooling of storage resources. It creates a virtualized storage layer that separates the actual physical storage devices from the applications and servers that use them. This virtualization enables administrators to manage and allocate storage more efficiently, simplifying tasks such as data migration, replication, and backup. Storage virtualization also improves storage utilization, as it enables different types of storage devices to be consolidated into a single pool, reducing the need for overprovisioning and ensuring optimal use of available resources. Additionally, storage virtualization enhances data availability and reliability by enabling features like data mirroring and automated failover, which contribute to improved data protection and business continuity.

See also: Top 10 Virtualization platforms

2020. Data virtualization service Varada raises $12M


Tel Aviv-based startup Varada has successfully secured a Series A funding round of $12 million. Varada specializes in simplifying data querying across various services for businesses. The company's approach revolves around enhancing data lakes with advanced indexing capabilities. These indexing capabilities are where Varada's intelligent features shine. Leveraging machine learning technology, Varada analyzes user behavior to identify common workload patterns. It proactively caches relevant data in advance, resulting in significantly faster performance compared to competitors. By intelligently optimizing data retrieval, Varada offers businesses a powerful solution for efficient data querying.


2017. HPE to acquire storage virtualization company Nimble Storage



Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) has completed the acquisition of Nimble Storage, a leading provider of predictive all-flash and hybrid-flash storage solutions. Nimble's predictive flash offerings, designed for the entry to midrange segments, complement HPE's existing scalable midrange to high-end 3PAR solutions and cost-effective MSA products. This strategic acquisition enables HPE to offer a comprehensive range of cutting-edge flash storage solutions to customers across all market segments. Nimble's entry to midrange flash storage solutions are known for their exceptional application performance, supported by an intelligent, predictive analytics engine that enhances the customer experience. This advanced analytics platform not only focuses on storage but also analyzes performance issues throughout the entire data path, from applications to the storage array. By proactively identifying and resolving potential issues before they arise, Nimble ensures a simplified and efficient storage environment. Furthermore, Nimble has recently introduced multicloud storage services, which seamlessly combine the strengths of on-premises and public cloud storage capabilities. These services are specifically designed for Hybrid IT deployments, providing customers with the flexibility and benefits of both environments. With the integration of Nimble Storage, HPE strengthens its position as a leading provider of innovative storage solutions, delivering enhanced performance, reliability, and versatility to meet the evolving needs of businesses in today's digital landscape.


2015. Citrix acquired data storage virtualization startup Sanbolic



Virtualization leader Citrix has recently acquired Sanbolic, a specialized provider of virtual storage optimization services. This strategic move fills a crucial gap in Citrix's virtualization product portfolio, strengthening its overall offering. Sanbolic has a strong synergy with Citrix's desktop virtualization technology and was already regarded as a valuable partner prior to the acquisition, making this deal a logical step forward. By joining forces with Sanbolic, Citrix gains access to a unique set of capabilities, notably the ability to create software-defined storage pools and efficiently distribute storage across networks, even in situations where the nodes are geographically dispersed. This acquisition enhances Citrix's ability to deliver advanced virtualization solutions, further solidifying its market position.