What is LeftHand?

HP LeftHand storage systems provide iSCSI-based SAN storage. Based on the industry-standard storage components, extremely high-performance SAN storage systems can be produced, offering a high level of flexibility and combining the advantages of complex SAN solutions with cost-effective all-inclusive prices. Like other HP storage solutions, HP LeftHand storage systems follow the GRID Approach.

An HP LeftHand storage system consists of several storage "nodes". Each individual node is a self-contained unit offering a combination of storage capacity (SATA or SAS), its own processing power and network bandwidth. The starting point is formed by two of these nodes, which form a failsafe cluster.

If more capacity is required, or if processing power and bandwidth need to be increased, the cluster can be extended to include further individual nodes whose performance and capacity are therefore added to the entire cluster, meaning that the performance increases in a linear fashion and can be scaled together with the capacity so that there is no "imbalance".

The individual nodes can be added to the cluster with various hard-drive technologies (SAS or SATA) and speeds, and corresponding storage classes can be formed.

What is behind this? 
The LeftHand Train Analogy
 

Traditional solution One or two locomotives (=controllers) for driving all the wagons behind; the more wagons there are, the greater the load on the locomotives. (Performance; effects in the event of failures) Traditional design
More sophisticated, scalable solutions Train units always consist of their own drive system and capacity; adding further train units enhances performance and capacity. (better performance, high scalability, extended failure safety/reliability) "GRID" Approach based on industry-standard storage

The key advantages at a glance:

• Modular, flexible, scalable
• Based on industry standards
• Exceptional High Availability Features thanks to hardware and software combinations 
• The perfect complement, and seamless integration into HP server environments

Details of functions, models, variants, and options can be found in the following brochure:

• HP LeftHand brochure

Further details about HP LeftHand can be found at www.hp.com/go/lefthandsans.